Ideal as a front end in studios for recording a wide range of input sources, the API Audio 512v is a mic/line/instrument preamp module designed for 500-series racks. Sporting up to 65 dB of mic gain (45 dB of instrument gain) and a front-panel XLR-1/4" combo input jack, as well as rear panel mic input support, this module provides low-noise input for any signal.
Ideal as a front end in studios for recording a wide range of input sources, the API Audio 512v is a mic/line/instrument preamp module designed for 500-series racks. Sporting up to 65 dB of mic gain (45 dB of instrument gain) and a front-panel XLR-1/4" combo input jack, as well as rear panel mic input support, this module provides low-noise input for any signal.
Output level control is variable, allowing for smooth and fine adjustment. There is 48V phantom power available for condensers and other active mics. When the 3:1 output transformer tap is engaged, the output gain ratio is reduced to 1:1. When taking in excessively hot signals, such as those already boosted by a preamp, a -20 dB pad is available. You can also engage a polarity flip switch. An LED VU meter lets you keep an eye on your signal levels. With discrete circuitry and the signature 2520 op-amp, this preamp module offers an excellent front-end sound, with warmth and reliability.
Fully Discrete Design
The API 512v remains faithful to the circuit designs of API's founder Saul Walker. Artfully combining those circuits with API's proprietary transformers and the excellent 2520 op-amp, the 512v is a highly musical and rich-sounding analog mic pre, equally at home in commercial recording spaces as it is in smaller home studios. Fully featured and still hand assembled, the 512v exhibits the reliability, long life, and uniformity which are characteristic of all API products.
