Sweetwater®

Weekly e-mail offers: Sign up today »
(800) 222-4700
  • Español: (800) 222-4701
Cart

Studio & Recording > Preamps > Channel Strips > API The Channel Strip

API The Channel Strip

Item ID: APIChanStr

Channel Strip with Preamp, Compressor, EQ, and Line Driver Modules plus Insert Point and Sidechain Input

Yes, It's In Stock!

This item is available for immediate delivery. You'll enjoy the fastest delivery time in the industry with our centrally-located warehouse and latest shipping cut-off times.

Get More Value From Sweetwater

or make 3 easy payments

From Our Research Team:

Your Complete Front-end Solution!

API's famous lunchbox concept has garnered widespread popularity among studio types who love "pick and choose" flexibility, in a compact format. With The Channel Strip, API does the "choosing" work for you, offering a money-saving bundle of a completely decked-out front end. As so many users have paired the 512c Mic Pre, the 550a EQ, the 527 Compressor, and the 325 Line Driver, API has now packaged them together for your instant sonic enjoyment.

API The Channel Strip Features:
  • Complete front-end solution with API console sound
  • Includes the 512c Mic Pre, the 550a EQ, and the 527 Compressor
  • Also includes the 325 Line Driver
  • Adds an insert point and sidechain input

API's The Channel Strip packs all your front-end solutions into a single rackspace!
Specification Detail
Preamp Type Solid State
Number of Channels 1
Phantom Power Yes
EQ Yes
Compressor Yes
Other Processing No Other Processing
Analog Inputs 1 x XLR (Mic), 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z), 1 x 1/4" (Line)
Analog Outputs 1 x XLR
Digital Inputs No Digital Inputs
Digital Outputs No Digital Outputs
Other I/O 8 x 1/4" (Pre Out, FX 1-2 In/Out, Insert Return, Comp SC In, DC Link), 1 x 9-Pin (Ext Control)
Computer Connectivity No Computer Connectivity
Rackmount Spaces 1U
Height 1.75"
Depth 11.5 inches
Width 19"
Weight 10 lbs. 12oz.
Manufacturer Part Number TheChannelStrip

The Channel Strip Image Gallery

Can We Help?

Sweetwater's friendly and knowledgeable Sales Engineers are regarded as the most experienced and educated professionals in the music industry, with extensive music backgrounds and intense training on the latest products and technologies. As your personal contact here at Sweetwater, they are available to provide personalized advice any time you need it.
Call toll-free (800) 222-4700 or E-mail us

Reviews

based on 1 review

API, Oh How I've MIssed You!

by P22 Audio from
January 15, 2012
Music Background:
I ran a studio back in the 90s. Rack choices included Neve, Summit, Focusrite, Avalon and other very fine pieces but as often as not I'd go with the API.

Circumstances compelled me to s... read more [+]ell my studio about 13 years ago. I've since picked up an A-Designs Pacifica, LA-610, AEA RPQ, and Trident S40. All very fine gear, but when listening to recordings from the 90s I had to admit I felt something missing.

I had the chance to pick up a demo Channel Strip. I was curious to see if the sound held up to what I was hearing in the old recordings.

Within 15 minutes of hooking the box up, I was reminded why I am an API guy. Detail, muscle and an instantly recognizable sound that is more obvious as you layer tracks (that elusive quality that, for me, defines "high end").

The preamp sounds the way I remember, and while I love the 550A, I do miss the 550B a bit (though just a bit). It's frankly stunning how effective the EQ is. I don't know how they do it, but I never find myself thinking "I wish this cut/boost was only 1dB." It always seems to be just what I need.

One thing I do regret is the LED meter used in the compressor. I find it a bit fussy, and not especially accurate. I would very much like to be able to see in detail what it's actually doing. There are many times when I hear it working, but the LED shows no compression at work. Of course we use out ears, there are many times where visual confirmation is invaluable. A VU meter would be killer, but I'm not sure they could make that work. The sound of the compression is sublime, and (for me) a reminder that plugins come nowhere near premium hardware.

I love this box. close [-]

I have to say it's the most personal order I've ever made from the pre-ship phone call, to the email, and finally the candy in the box. Thanks! I don't think I could beat the customer service even in a local shop


Chrystal, McMinnville, TN

Also popular

See Also: API , API Channel Strips

API The Channel Strip

Today's Payment: $1,222.75
Includes $10 processing fee
Payment 2: $666.50
In approx. 30 days
Payment 3: $666.50
In approx. 60 days

Buy Today, Make

Sweetwater's Flexible Payment Plan is a convenient, interest-free way to buy gear now and stretch your purchase across three budget-friendly payments. Simply choose the "3 Easy Payments" option in your cart, and we'll divide your purchase amount into three convenient payments, billed to your current MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or American Express card. There is a $10 processing fee for using this service, and your billing address must be in the United States to be eligible. The 3 Easy Payments offer is valid on purchases up to $2,000, or on the first $2,000 of a larger purchase. It's just another way we make shopping at Sweetwater easy and convenient!

Get your API The Channel Strip now and spread out the payments!


This program is subject to credit approval. We will pull a copy of your credit report to approve your application.

Sweetwater Sound Inc.
5501 U.S. Hwy 30 W
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
Get Directions »

Toll Free (800) 222-4700
Español (800) 222-4701
Local (260) 432-8176
Fax (260) 432-1758
E-mail us

Phone & Retail Store Hours:
9–9 Monday–Thursday
9–8 Friday
9–7 Saturday
(All hours listed are Eastern Time.)

© 2013 Sweetwater Sound Inc. All rights reserved. Please read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Links | Press Releases