312 Preamp

The API 312 is a microphone preamplifier for the 500 Series format that brings the legendary sound of API's classic 312 console card into the modern studio. Renowned for its big, punchy, and forward sound, the 312 is a recreation of the preamp that was at the heart of API consoles from the 1970s. This module is for engineers who crave that classic American rock and roll sound, characterized by a powerful low-midrange, a clear and present top end, and the ability to handle high SPL sources with ease. It excels on drums, electric guitars, and any source that needs to cut through a dense mix.

The design of the 312 is simple, robust, and focused purely on sound quality. It features the traditional API preamp circuit, which includes the renowned API 2520 discrete op-amp and a custom-wound AP2516 input transformer. This combination is key to its signature tone. The front panel provides a single rotary control for gain, offering up to 69dB of clean amplification, more than enough for any microphone type. It also includes essential features like 48V phantom power, a 20dB pad for taming loud sources, and a polarity reverse switch. A unique addition to this modern version is a 3:1 output transformer selection, which allows the user to change the output stage character, providing even more tonal flexibility. A vintage-style analog VU meter gives clear visual feedback of the output level.

Features

• Recreation of the classic API 312 microphone preamp.
• Features the proprietary AP2516 input transformer and 2520 op-amp.
• Provides up to 69dB of gain.
• Switchable 3:1 output transformer tap for tonal variation.
• Front panel switches for 48V Phantom Power, 20dB Pad, and Polarity.
• Vintage-style analog VU meter for output level monitoring.
• Classic API sound: punchy, warm, and forward.
• Ideal for drums, electric guitars, and vocals.