API Audio has been proudly delivering timeless analog magic since the 1960s. For decades, API has made contributions to the audio community that also played a role in historic landmarks for the entire music industry. The pursuit to make the highest quality analog recording gear resonates within the largest API consoles, down to the smallest 500 and 200 series modules. Console design, as well modular design, is driven by the same vision API established in 1969: to provide the best analog warmth in the business. Today, API holds close to its legacy while introducing gear that caters to current recording and mixing workflows.
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API The Box 2 Recording and Mixing Console 
API 5500 Dual Equalizer 
API 3124V 4-Channel Microphone/Line Preamp 
API (Automated Processes Incorporated) was formed by engineers who strived for nothing more than the highest quality professional audio gear. The pivotal era of the late ‘60s was the bedrock for exciting new developments in audio. API, led by Saul Walker, made moves that forever changed the course of the music industry. In the ‘70s, API made analog equipment ahead of its time by introducing large format consoles using sophisticated circuitry and fader automation features. These were just a few contributions that became the first steps towards establishing API as a major forerunner in professional audio. As time passed, API consoles found permanent homes in large commercial studios as well as state universities offering audio production programs. From large multi-channel recording consoles to the discrete circuitry of numerous analog modules, API remains dedicated to professionals who demand the best.
The API Vision was designed to handle simultaneous stereo/surround mixing and features the same quality craftsmanship featured on other API Legacy Series consoles, the first of which was installed at Green Street Studios in 1989. The Vision continues the legacy with added panning, bussing, and monitoring features intended for 5.1 surround mixing landscapes. Each input channel features dual 100mm moving faders, additional dynamics/EQ processing, and accommodates 5 channel surround panning for the dedicated 5.1 mix bus. The Vision has plenty of provisions for additional signal routing through a variety of 200 series modules (215L Sweep Filter, 205L Direct Input, 225L Compressor, etc.), not to mention full patchbay facilities.
The 2448 recording console follows suit with its vintage ancestor, the API 2488 that brought warmth to just about every record recorded in LA in the ‘70s. This affordable, fully analog console brings true inline workflow in a 24-channel format with plenty of room to grow. The automation system is taken from the same system used on the classic API Vision for the smoothest automation performance possible. The added 529C Stereo Bus Compressor is great for mix glue or added punch and offers twp alternate styles of compression (New or Old) to choose between different compression characteristics. Additionally, there’s space for eight VPR Alliance 500 series modules. Like its successor, the 2448 console is another timeless analog console from API.
Based on the incredible success of the original 1608, API proudly announced the 1608-II in 2018. Following the introduction of the 1608 in 2008, API delivered over 600 consoles and expanders to discerning audio professionals throughout the world. Equipped with an updated feature set and debuting their new cross-platform Final Touch automation system, the 1608-II continues API’s rich legacy of crafting the world’s highest-quality analog recording consoles. Final Touch empowers musicians, engineers, and producers with power and flexibility only found on the most sophisticated automated consoles.The 1608-II provides the powerful reliability and incredible API sound that has characterized their products for nearly 50 years.
The 500 and 200 series modules from API offer an incredible range of signal processing possibilities from every flavor of compression and EQ. Many of the modules in these series are reissues of API originals from long ago; however, there are also new models in production. Standard 500 series compressor modules, like the API 525 Compressor, can add any amount of depth, punch, or glue a signal needs. The mic preamps from API are second to none, especially the latest A2D Mic Pre. Fully-featured and hand-assembled, the A2D is highly musical and rich, characteristic of all API gear. Most importantly, many of these modules stay true to the original circuit layouts designed by founder Saul Walker, so you can rest easy knowing the original API sound is still alive and thriving.
If you want to get your hands on a genuine API console or if you have questions about any of the API analog gear, Vintage King has you covered.
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