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SKU
312
API 512c 500 Series Microphone Preamp
Single-channel microphone/line/instrument preamp for 500 Series - every bit of classic API sound!
MFR# 512C
Product Description
While it's entirely accurate to call the API 512c an excellent all-around microphone preamp, that doesn't do it justice. The API 512c is arguably the most popular 500 Series module available, offering every bit of the classic API console sound in a single-channel 500 Series format. Some describe the character as "pure." Some call it "fast." However you define it, the 512c delivers 100% API sound...versatile and timeless.
- Faithful to the original API circuit designs
- Popular for its remarkable versatility
- 500 Series format
Faithful to the original API circuit designs
For those of us who can't afford an original API console or simply don't have that kind of space, the API 512c is a gift. This single-channel mic preamp was faithfully designed to deliver the same distinct sound, at a price and in a format that makes sense for today's studios. The traditional fully discrete API circuit design is here, along with the famous API 2520 Op-amp. The API 512c also offers high headroom, with 65dB of gain on the mic preamp and 50dB on the line/instrument side.
Popular for its remarkable versatility
The API 512c is possibly most noted for its versatility, just like the front end of the original API consoles that somehow sounded incredible no matter the application. You can get a huge, open vocal sound with the 512c, or use it for a certain "pop" on just about any source imaginable...cymbals, piano, acoustic guitar. It plays nicely with nearly any mic too. You'll hear the SM57 open up a bit. Or, pair it with your prized large-diaphragm condenser and notice all the details you love, with just the right of complementing color. The bottom line is, you really can't go wrong.
500 Series format
API truly pioneered the 500 Series format, finding a way to make their legendary sound available on a piece-by-piece basis to meet your specific needs. Within the format, the API 512c is a staple, an indispensable preamp for the vintage-minded studio with modern needs.
Features:
- Single-channel microphone/instrument/line preamplifier
- 500 Series format
- Mic preamplifier with 65dB of gain
- Line/instrument preamp with 50dB of gain
- Front and back inputs
- LED VU meter for monitoring output level
- 20dB pad switch
- 48V selectable phantom power
- Traditional API fully discrete circuit design
- Uses the famous API 2520 op-amp
Product Specifications
| Condition | New |
|---|---|
| Tube or Solid State | Solid State |
| Channels | Single-Channel |
| Chassis | Module |
| Module Type | 500 Series |
| Module Slot Count | 1 Slot |
| Direct Input | Yes |
| Digital I/O | No |
Product Reviews
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👍🏼
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One of the best Pres in our studio, a classic!!! Excellent on everything from Vocals to Drums and the DI is killer on Keys and Bass!!!
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I had a pair of 512s for years and loved them. I traded them in for Neve 1073 LBs, and it was lie falling into a black hole. The APIs are magic, pure and simple. They make any mic sound pristine, and uncolored, and you can get by without EQing their that good. So, I sold the Neve's and bought another pair of APIs. I'm writing this to save others the money, time and hassle of disappointment. If you go with Neve, you have to get older 1073s -- the large units with the EQ built in. That's big money, but for less than half the dough, you can't go wrong with the API's!
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I've always heard how punchy classic api 512's are. Now that I own a 512c is doesn't disappoint. It's super punchy with forward mids, but still warm and musical - plus I was pleasantly surprised to receive it from VK in only two days from placing my order!
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The API sound is something my ears have always been drawn to, so when I decided to start building a little studio setup of my own, I know it needed to start with API. Im a drummer by trade, and to me nothing beats the sound of an API. I loaded up my first lunchbox with 4 512cs to be used for my kick, snare and toms, the first recording I did in my home studio was just as good as anywhere Ive tracked in the past. I was going to add some other preamps to have the option for different tones, but was so impressed by the sound of API I ended up adding 4 more 512cs. My recordings have never been as clear and punchy, adding API to my home setup has completely revolutionized my sound!
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Product Documents
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