API Select T25 2-channel Tube Compressor Reviews
When we heard that API was releasing a hybrid FET/tube compressor/limiter — the API Select T25 — we were surprised and delighted. Surprised, because since the late ’60s, the revered American pro audio company has been synonymous with world-class solid-state gear. And delighted (or perhaps more accurately, tantalized), given the implied sonic potential. The API Select T25 is a classic, 2-channel FET feedback-type compressor/limiter with a Class A tube output stage employing a custom-wound API transformer. It offers a powerful and versatile feature set that includes stereo and dual-mono modes, and as you would expect, it delivers the best performance aspects of both worlds: the speed and responsiveness of a FET-based gain-reduction circuit and the euphonic warmth of tubes. But there’s no trace of the “flabby” character tube gear can exhibit, because the T25 is packing big iron: the output stage balances tubular warmth with the tightness and punch of a proprietary AP2516 transformer.
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Highest Rated Reviews
Modern Classic!
I've had this piece of gear for six months now and used it for tracking, mixing, and mastering. The T25 FET-style compressor limiter is a beast. Not only can you use it in mono, but also in stereo. The tubes add a big warm sound that can have your vocals sit in a mix with very little processing paired with a nice mic pre EQ. Currently, use it as an insert into my SSL Fusion as well. Definetly a good combo in my opinion! Best of both worlds. I like how the VU and LED gain reduction meters help visualize how much compression or limiting is applied. Overall super solid piece of gear!
Beautiful Piece of API Engineering!
I was lookin for a FET compressor like the 1176, the only issue with the 1176 is that is a mono compressor and in order to use it as a "Buss Compressor" you will need two of them! I always been an API gear fan and I was shocked when I saw the new line of API select line of products! I found that the T25 Tube dual mono compressor has the same specifications that the 1176 in the attack and release times but with the warm effect of the tube, it's like having two 1176 compressors! what of a deal! It sounds amazing and it's so versatile that it can be used on anything. I just use "Greg Wells" 1176 settings on vocals and it works perfect. It's an API guys!
Great first compressor
I bought this because I wanted a FET compressor, ala 1176, but without the need to buy two (stereo).
I find that the attack and release settings are super friendly for tracking. I've been able to track guitars, bass, synths, and eurorack in a way where they sound great going in without too much additional processing. They sound roughly professional going in, close to that finished product.
The sound is close to that of an 1176 but the tube adds a nice character to it. It's not too much tube, it's just the right amount.
The Thrust control is awesome, just adds a little bit of the highs back in. It's not crazy noticeable, but makes a difference when you listen back in clarity of guitar and bass.
One downside I've noticed is that the unit needs an Input Level control. I'm using API preamps and those signals can be a little hot if you want more gain/character. Can you turn it down going into the compressor? Sure, but not every API preamp has level control for outputs, so it feels like API should have planned for that. An additional downside is that the channels do Link together, but you need to keep the controls the same on both sides for that to work. Not the biggest deal in the world, but it would be great if when Linked you only needed to move controls on one side for both channels. Otherwise is that really stereo or is it just dual mono with a link button? Small complaint, but makes a difference in user experience.
Overall I would definitely recommend this as a first compressor, as an 1176 alternative, as a great option for guitar and bassists looking for tracking into a DAW.
