Yes they make a compressor, too! Once API started putting 500 slots in their consoles in the early '70s, it was only natural for them to introduce a 500 series modular compressor. The result was the ingenious (some would call it downright quirky) 525. Sonically, it might be described as a baby 1176, with its discrete, ultra-fast feedback-type circuit. It’s a real knob-twister, especially the “Ceiling” fine-tune function, which simultaneously modifies both threshold and make-up gain for precise changes in compression without changes in output level. The built-in De-esser is a sweet additional feature. This modern version is an exact reissue of the original.
api 525 features
The API 525 is perhaps the most successful solid state feedback compressor in history. It delivers dynamics control behavior unlike VCA "feed forward" compressors so common today. A remarkable multi-function "ceiling" control can increase gain reduction (lower threshold) while simultaneously raising output level to match, so the user can alter dynamics "on the fly" without level changes. This re-issue design has been taken from the original blue prints and spec control drawings from the API archives.
Release times vary with frequency, with high frequency/full bandwidth content released faster than just low frequency for natural envelope tracking. Attack time is fixed, chosen to catch the fastest peaks, without "pumping". Equally useful as a tracking, mixdown or program compressor/limiter, the benefits of the API 525 are most obvious to those who use compression on a regular basis. "Vintage" dynamics control, an easy to use multi-function control set, and a wide range of 500 Series mounting options assure that the 525 will surpass your most critical applications. With the addition of a hard-wire bypass switch, a balanced input, and a pinout that is the same as all the other 500 series modules, the 525 is still, after 25 years—"the sound". Two or more 525s can be linked for multi-channel compression.
The 525 Feedback Compressor/Limiter makes use of the 2510 and 2520 op-amps and therefore exhibits the reliability, long life, and uniformity which are characteristic of API products.
- Reissue of APIs original 525 from the early 70s
- Peak detecting feedback compressor/limiter
- Variable Threshold and Output levels
- Unique Ceiling control combines key functions
- VU meter for monitoring gain reduction
- 4 Switchable release modes
- De-Ess function
- Traditional API fully discrete circuit design
- Hardwire bypass
SPECIFICATIONS
- Input Impedance: > 30 K Ohms, Balanced
- Output Impedance: 100 Ohms, Transformer coupled, Balanced>
- Operating Levels: -15 dBu to +20 dBu
- Maximum Gain Reduction: 25 dB<
- Noise: 98 dB below +10 dBu output, at 10 dB of Compression
- Harmonic Distortion: 0.5% Max, 30 to 20 KHz
- Attack Time: 15 micro seconds
- Release Times: .1, .5, 2.0, 2.5 seconds
- De-essing: Inversion of the Voice Energy Curve
- Slopes: Compression, 2:1, Limit, 20:1
- Metering: Compression or Limiting-Illuminated Analog dB meter, shows
- Gain Reduction
- Frequency Response: .5dB, 30 to 20 kHz
- Power Requirements: 12/18 Volts/DC,@80 ma.
RACK FRAME AND POWER SUPPLY OPTIONS
- 500B6 Lunchbox - Six position "lunchbox" with internal power supply
- 500V - Ten position, rackmountable frame with external power supply
- API Legacy Consoles and vintage API Consoles.
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