API 512v Stereo Pair
Best classic sound for professional recording studios.
Experience the legendary API sound with the 512v Stereo Pair, a pair of versatile 500 Series preamps. Delivering 65dB of mic gain and 45dB for line/instrument sources, these preamps offer exceptional clarity and a rich, musical character. Shape your sound with variable output control and switchable output transformer taps. The front-panel combo connector ensures easy connectivity for a wide range of sources. Built with API's robust, discrete circuitry and the iconic 2520 op-amp, this stereo pair is a studio essential for professional audio.
$1990.00
More 512 Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
44
/ 565
#44 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+23%
Above average
Who it's for
- Audio engineers and producers seeking a classic, vibrant sonic character.
- Engineers desiring flexible tone shaping and optimal signal-to-noise ratio.
- Studio owners and engineers building flexible, expandable custom racks.
Who should skip it
- Home studio owners and emerging producers with limited budgets.
- New users without existing 500-series racks or space constraints.
- Engineers prioritizing ultra-clean, uncolored signal paths above all else.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Character
The legendary 2520 op-amp delivers that classic, punchy API warmth.
Gain Versatility
Ample headroom handles everything from ribbon mics to high-output line sources.
Output Flexibility
Variable output and transformer taps offer precise control over harmonic saturation.
Build Integrity
Discrete circuitry ensures professional-grade reliability for demanding studio environments.
Connectivity Convenience
Front-panel combo inputs make quick instrument tracking seamless and efficient.
Stereo Matching
Perfectly paired modules provide consistent imaging for critical stereo recording tasks.
Key Specs
Mic Preamp with 65 dB of gain
Line/Instrument Preamp with 45 dB of gain
Variable Output Level Control
Switchable 3
1 Output Transformer Tap Selection
Front and Back Panel Mic Input Access
Front Panel Combo-style XLR + 1/4 inch Line/Instrument Input
LED VU meter for Gain Level indication
-20 dB pad switch, applies to mic/line/instrument
Features
- Iconic API sound quality
- High gain for microphones
- Versatile line/instrument gain
- Variable output level control
- Switchable output transformer taps
- Front panel combo input
- Fully discrete circuit design
- Includes 5-year warranty
What customers say
Customers consistently praise this stereo pair for its exceptional sound quality and unwavering reliability. Users frequently highlight its signature punchy and clear sonic character, making it a go to choice for professional recording environments. The robust build and consistent performance across various applications instill great confidence. Many appreciate its straightforward operation within a modular system, allowing for seamless integration into existing setups. This product stands out for delivering a classic, professional grade audio experience that truly elevates recordings.
Know before you buy
The variable output control allows you to drive the API 2520 op-amp harder to achieve saturation and harmonic character without clipping your digital converters. It gives you more creative control over the 'color' of your signal while maintaining optimal gain staging.
Yes, the front-panel combo input is designed to handle line and instrument sources. With 45dB of gain available for these inputs, it provides plenty of headroom for direct recording of instruments.
This feature allows you to attenuate the output signal by a factor of 3:1 directly at the transformer. It is particularly useful when you want to push the preamp's gain for a thicker, more driven sound while keeping the final output level low enough to avoid overloading your interface inputs.
Yes, as a 500 Series module, the 512v requires a compatible 500 Series rack or lunchbox to provide the necessary power and I/O connections.
The 512v adds a variable output level control and switchable transformer taps, which are not present on the classic 512c. These additions provide significantly more flexibility for shaping the tone and managing gain levels in modern digital recording workflows.
Yes, the 512v features independent 48V phantom power switching for each channel, allowing you to safely use a mix of condenser and ribbon or dynamic microphones simultaneously.
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