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API 2500

Item ID: API2500

Stereo Compressor with "Old" and "New" Compression, "Thrust" Circuit, Auto or Manual Gain Makeup, Variable Threshold, and Sidechain

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From Our Research Team:

Your Choice For Incredibly Musical Compression!

If you're after versatile compression, the API 2500 is a stellar pick. This stereo bus compressor sports API's patented "thrust" circuit, which ensures you can snag a hearty, chest-hitting low end. While the API 2500 is set up for stereo compression, you can also use it as two separate units. However you use it, though, you'll have a range of compression styles to dial in - all musical, all incredibly usable. Use the "old"/"new" switch to choose among classic and modern compression vibes with your API 2500.

API 2500 Stereo Compressor at a Glance:
  • This stereo compressor's all about versatility and musicality
  • Mono capabilities and API's auto-makeup gain button
  • API's continuing legacy of innovation and sought-after sound

This stereo compressor's all about versatility and musicality
When you choose API, you know you're getting amazing sonic character. And with the API 2500, you've got a wide range of characters to choose among and dial in. To start, the API 2500 stereo compressor has API's patented "Thrust" highpass filter before its RMS detector, which leads the way to really punchy low end. There are also two types of compression onboard the API 2500 - "old" and "new." The old style uses the feedback type of compression found on the classic API525 while the new style uses a feedforward type, similar to many modern, popular compressors.

Mono capabilities and API's auto-makeup gain button
The API 2500 is stereo ready, but sports a variable link between the left and right channels, so you can put it to work on your mono sources. Whatever way you use it, you'll like having API's auto-makeup gain button on the output stage. It lets you vary the API 2500's threshold or ratio, while automatically maintaining a constant output level.

API's continuing legacy of innovation and sought-after sound
In 1968, Automated Processes Inc. began building quality consoles for broadcast applications. Soon, the company's products found favor with recording studios, and a string of industry-leading advancements (including computerized console automation, the first VCA, and more) followed. API produced the 2520 amplifier, one of the most famous op-amps in the recording industry, and their consoles and products found homes in such iconic studio facilities as Ocean Way, the Record Plant, and Sunset Sound, among others. In fact, there are over 700 classic API consoles around the globe - many of which are still in use. And the company certainly isn't resting on its laurels; today's API products give you the same unbeatable combination of utility, innovation, and great sound.

API 2500 Stereo Compressor Features:
  • API 2520 op-amp
  • Variable threshold between -20 and +10
  • Selectable Ratio, Attack and Release times
  • Patented "Thrust" highpass filter before RMS detector
  • Variable link between left and right channels
  • Old "feed back" or new "feed forward" compression
  • Soft, Medium or Hard Knee for easy to sharp compression
  • Auto or manual gain make up
  • 1/4" balanced side chain inputs
  • Output clips at +30dBm

The API 2500 stereo compressor delivers legendary API sonic quality with both old and new character!
Specification Detail
Number of Channels 2
Controls Threshold, Attach, Ratio, Release
Threshold -20dB to 10dB
Ratio 1:1 to Inf
Side Chain Insterts Yes
Inputs 2 x XLR
Outputs 2 x XLR
Sidechain I/O 2 x 1/4"
Rackmount Spaces 1U
Height 1.75"
Width 19"
Manufacturer Part Number 2500

2500 Image Gallery

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Reviews

based on 4 reviews

maybe the best buss comp ever...

by calin enache from washington, dc
May 15, 2013
Music Background: producer and engineer
the api 2500 is a true classic. for drum buss compression, it has the punchiest sound ive ever heard. the thrust lets you totally control your drum sound and its almost impossible to not have an impro... read more [+]vement after running it through this box... the sound of the transformers and op amps is just amazing. a little bit of fine tuning and the drums sound just massive. great from rock to rnb to pop to house to dubstep or anything else. its also quite amazing at mix buss compression, although i prefer an ssl type unit for that. if you want to purchase your first stereo comp, you really cannot go wrong with this guy. api is top notch and a classic for a reason.. seriously its worth every cent. if you like the waves plugin, this thing will blow you away! close [-]

Very Nice!

by Carl from Bronx, NY
August 30, 2012
Music Background: Artist, Producer Engineer
Glad I bought it before the price jump... I love the plugin version so much I had to get the hardware version! This piece has definitely taken my rack and my mixes to another level!

Amazing functionality

by Imago from Ky
February 3, 2010
Music Background: Recording/mixing engineer, producer
First of all there is a reason why waves made an emulation of this compressor. Simply amazing! It adds just the right amount of punch to my drum tracks, and also sounds amazing on the backside of my... read more [+] Dangerous music 2-bus as a mix bus compressor. I haven't thrown anything at the 2500 that it can't handle. It's a beast. close [-]

A very versatile compressor!!

by Irie Fire Studio from
December 10, 2012
Music Background: Recording Engineer/Musician
This is an amazing compressor with so much versatility. I had the plug-in version (which is also pretty good) but the difference between the two, and the warmth and different tone options and features... read more [+] you can get from this!! I am a satisfied customer. close [-]

I was very pleased with the shipping speed and the way the stand was packed. I was especially surprised to see candy thrown in the box as well, thank you. It was very relevant to your name "sweet" water. Your "Thank You" inserts provided an insight into your service to your customers - and it really shows how you really appreciate your customers. Your customer service is excellent and I would not hesitate to buy from you again ... in fact, you will be the first company that will come to mind for my next purchase because I know what I will expect. Excellent Customer Service!


Cheryll, Lott, TX

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See Also: Compressors , API , API Compressors / Limiters , API Compressors / Limiters

API 2500

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