API
512c
intermediate
$895
Used market: $735*
Specifications
3 of 7 values have a recorded source- Type
- outboard_preamp·
- Added Gain dB
- 65✓
- Input Connector
- 3-Pin XLR Mic (front) + 1/4" TS Hi-Z Instrument (front)·
- Output Connector
- 500 Series Edge Connector, transformer balanced·
- Expert Description
- En: The 500-series module the format was built around: 2520 discrete op-amp, API transformer input and output, mic gain 34-65 dB (14-45 dB with the pad), Hi-Z input 14-45 dB at 400 kΩ (20 kΩ with pad), mic input impedance 1500 Ω for a 150 Ω microphone, output impedance under 75 Ω. · Uk: Модуль, навколо якого й будувався формат 500: дискретний операційний підсилювач 2520, вхідний і вихідний трансформатори API, мікрофонне підсилення 34–65 дБ (14–45 дБ з атенюатором), вхід Hi-Z 14–45 дБ при 400 кΩ (20 кΩ з атенюатором), вхідний опір для мікрофона 150 Ω — 1500 Ω, вихідний — менше 75 Ω.·
- Provides Phantom Power
- yes✓
- Requires Phantom Power
- no✓
Expert Audio Engineering Commentary
Gain Staging Advice
Gain starts at 34 dB, not at zero. With a hot condenser on a loud source you are meant to reach for the pad — there is no setting below 34 dB without it.
Production Warning
The Hi-Z input is on the front panel and its 400 kΩ is lower than a dedicated DI's few megohms. On a passive pickup that difference is audible as a slightly darker top end, not as a level change.
* Estimated with the depreciation fallback (~82% retained value). · checked on 8/5/2026