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Check Out Our 500 Series Buyer's Guide.
One of the biggest advantages of the 500 Series format is flexibility. Learn how to choose the right rack, mix and match modules, and create a signal chain that fits the way you like to work in the studio.
500 Series
About 500 Series
500 Series modules are a great way to add analog processing to your signal chain, without breaking the bank or taking up too much space in your recording studio. Since they were introduced in the 1970s, 500 Series preamps have defined the sound of hit records and have been a secret weapon for recording engineers. 500 Series modules are a perfect fit for integration into your favorite DAW, with many mic preamps and modules offering the same sonic quality as their larger counterparts, but for a fraction of the price, and much less real estate in your rack.
The design started with API Audio, and since all their consoles were modular, you could easily swap out a mic preamp, EQ, or compressor if one were to need servicing. Manufacturers started to see how this could benefit multiple aspects of the recording industry, and in the 1980s, the 500 Series was born. Since then, 500 Series has become an industry standard and can be found in professional recording studios and home studios across the globe.
Shop for 500 Series by Brand
Vintage King carries 500 Series modules from all the top brands including API Audio, AMS Neve, Cranborne Audio, SSL, and more. Mix and match your favorite brands you create your own custom 500 Series channel strip or signal chain. Record vocals and guitar with legendary brands like the Neve 1073 mic preamp and API 550A EQ, all in a small 500 Series form factor. There are also countless stereo 500 Series modules like the SSL G-Comp bus compressor and the SPL BiG, which will be right at home on your mix bus or mastering chain.
500 Series FAQs
Which 500 Series modules should I choose?
Choosing 500 Series modules can be daunting because there are so many options on the market.
Are 500 Series modules expensive?
500 Series modules are one of the most cost-effective ways to build out your recording arsenal. Since 500 Series modules are physically smaller, they are often less expensive than their full-size rackmount counterparts. As a modular system, 500 Series modules can be purchased individually, so you can spread out your investment over time.
What are the benefits of 500 Series modules?
Recording engineers around the world have benefited from the 500 Series format. For starters, 500 Series modules are often more affordable than full-size rack units. Portability is also a big advantage of using 500 Series modules. Their smaller size means you can bring your favorite preamps, compressors, and EQs to every session, packing tons of recording power into one small space. Finally, 500 Series modules allow you to mix and match your favorite brands to create the perfect signal chain for your needs.
Getting started with 500 Series modules
Getting started with 500 Series modules can be daunting, but the team at Vintage King is here to help!
First things first - think about how many modules you may need for your workflow. This will help you decide which 500 Series rack you need to connect all of your modules. Vintage King has 500 Series racks of all sizes, and many have special features like mixers or even a built-in audio interface.
Once you've picked your rack, it's time to fill it! Simply use the filters on this page to find your favorite 500 Series preamps, EQs, Compressors, and FX, or contact your Vintage King Sales Consultant at +1 888.653.1184 for recommendations.
Why Shop 500 Series at Vintage King?
For over 30 years, Vintage King has been outfitting recording studios of all sizes with the best 500 series modules on the market. As engineers and producers ourselves, our team has experience with all of the most popular brands, preamps, compressors, and effects. If you're unsure what 500 Series modules you need, Vintage King is here to help. Call us today at +1 888.653.1184 to find the right 500 Series module for your rack!
Original Copy (Currently on Site)
500 Series modules are a great way to add analog processing to your signal chain, without breaking the bank or taking up too much space in your studio. Since they were introduced in the 1970s, 500 Series preamps have been defining the sound of hit records and been a secret weapon to engineers. The design started with API, and since all their consoles were modular, you could easily swap out a preamp, EQ, or compressor if one were to go bad. Manufacturers started to see how this could benefit multiple aspects of the recording industry, and in the 1980's, the 500 Series was born. Vintage King offers the widest variety of 500 Series modules, from API, NEVE, BAE, Focusrite, Moog, and many more. Modules come in everything you would need for recording or mixing from preamps, EQ, effects, compressors, gates, and more.
500 Series modules are a perfect fit for integration into your favorite DAW, the modules offer the same sonic quality as their larger counterparts, but for a fraction of the price, and much less real estate in your rack. Our sales engineers have been putting these modules to the test in pro recording facilities and home setups for years, and have experience with every module, so if you're unsure what you need to fill your first 500 Series preamp or rack, we are here to help.
A bit of pre-planning is always in order when purchasing analog gear. Vintage King offers a variety of 500 Series racks, From API, BAE, NEVE, SSL, Shadow Hills, and more, each with their own power specifications. Be sure to ask your sales engineer which will best suit the power requirement and voltage control for your selected gear.
