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The API 550 discrete four-band EQ played a major part in the history of music recording in the USA during the 60s and 70s. Originally conceived for use in API's consoles, this latest 550 "B" version is a continuation of the original 1967 550 through the 550A with one additional filter band and several new frequencies. Incorporating API's exclusive circuitry and proprietary components (such as the legendary API 2520 op-amp), the 550B artfully blends the past with the present. So many hit records still depend on the unique 550 sound, that the 550B will be an invaluable tool you will turn to again and again. The API 550B—unlike any other you will ever use.
Many EQs today offer a huge assortment of complex features, but the API 550B provides exactly the right number of controls to the professional engineer. Deceptively simple at first glance, the 550B's four EQ bands are overlapped significantly to aid in dual roles as problem solver and sweetening device. Each band offers seven switchable filter frequencies spanning four to five octaves, selected through experience by a "who's who" list of the industry's most proficient engineers. This re-issue design has been taken from the original blueprints and spec control drawings from the API archives.
Making use of "API Proportional-Q", a design introduced by API in the 60's, the 550B intuitively widens the filter bandwidth at minimal settings and narrows it at higher settings—without the need for additional bandwidth controls. This feature minimizes the "phase-shift" sound found in many equalizers. The reciprocal nature of the 550B enables the user to "undo" what has been done previously.
The benefits of the API 550B are most obvious to those who work with EQ on a continuous basis. The 550B's ability to affect or reverse tonal modifications is perhaps the most important feature. If major tonal restructuring is required, the extraordinary headroom made possible with API's 2520 op-amp offers predictable and gentle "analog" performance under duress. With a surprisingly wide range of tonal variations, you can do no better than the API 550B.
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This thing sound so good!
I’ve used the digital version of this EQ for quite some time. I’ve learned as I age that real gear ALWAYS sounds better than the digital emulations. The difference here is noticed while mixing. I bought two 550Bs, one for kick bus, one for snare bus (then both got to API 527A compressors). Both kick and snare are way more present in the mix. They fight their way through and do not get smeared along the way. They just sound magically better. I’ve also tracked acoustic guitar through these. Same thing. More present and in your face. The EQs can nicely get rid of the rumble and the sparkle is the best from any EQ I have. I highly recommend if your looking to get “real” again.
No words can say... This thing is super-freqi!!! Will NEVER sell. :-) Drums and bass are a breeze now.
I recently bought a 550b to use along side some vintage 550a's. In short, they compliment eachother nicely! The 550a is looser and wider sounding, while the 550b is taller, with a tighter bottom and a bit punchier. Great EQ!
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The best gear advice always comes from those who use it the most. That's where you come in! Let the pro audio world hear your voice with a review of the API 550b 500 Series Equalizer . Once you submit your review, please check your email and verify your address to have it posted.
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