Dude, thanks for making this video. I've always love the API 512 and I have to have it after watching your video. Also, what and incredible song too. It's nice to hear some a demo video with talent.
great performance! API preamps are amazing. now that everything was pretty much neve land for years, I hope we see a huge revival of this open sound now that dynamics are coming back to music.
API’s have a solid tone to them. I think that each pre has its time. Dynamic range is dictated by how you gain stage, I’ve made some pretty open recordings with Neve pre’s. So I think there is space for both flavours. :)
I know this is an API preamp review, and your song is killer, but sounds like some of the CAPI preamps would serve you well as they have the missing features you mentioned (filters and output fader). The VP28 is the best API style preamp I have personally used. Your videos are killer! MORE!
Welp API should send you a bonus check cuz I ordered one the morning after watching this 😂. Awesome demo and performance man. I can really hear some of that flavor from my favorite records.
I Ended up getting a pair of the 512v’s. It sounds the same but with a a couple of extra features. Also If you push and “Maxout” the Variable Output Gain knob The mix feels a little tighter towards the center and a little less mellow but still Melodic and never Harsh.. (each instrument more concentrated).. then you have the extra Gain knob on the 512v to push it harder. this PreAmp is Pure 🔥🔥🔥 specially the 3D feel. Clarity, and coloration. It changed my Mix Printout Drastically. Great Example dude!
Also if makes the Track feel like a 1960 track in terms of instrument placements. Like you said it is not forgiven but beautiful. It will depict every detail when panning the various insteuments.
TLM 103 into API is a great vocal chain too especially on female vocals where you need attitude! I did this with the API 3124, but I think the 312 & 512 are similar.
I have been using Api preamp with the TLM 103 on male vocals and it been mind blowing 🤯 Its interesting maybe because people is always more inclined for Neve their never get to try things Its been very difficult for my to go for a preamp because of that. I forgot to say it’s not even an analog unit, I have been using the Api Vision. I have test UAD Manley,610,All the Neve Selections,Avalon, SSL you name it. But im sold with api, My next move would be a 512c Preamp instead of Rupert 511 at the moment.
@@silveramateur571 I’ve had great results with male vocals on TLM 103 & API as well. I had two specific sessions/projects in mind when I mentioned the female vocals I recorded. I have the API Vision as well as the UAD API Preamp. You can’t go wrong with those! Neve is amazing too! It’s just that certain things lend different flavors. Also different singers have different harmonics and different strengths & weaknesses. It’s important to remember that different pieces of gear will accentuate or minimize different sounds.
Never too late to learn Zane. :) I gave drumming lessons to a guy in his 40’s for a while and he had great feel and ended up in a band after a couple years. It’s never too late. :)
Thank you. :) always strange how peoples opinions are different, I loved singing into the API more than the 1073, but you are not the first person to say they preferred the 1073 on my voice.
I'm genuinely considering getting a pair of Mic/Line 512v's to run my stems back through them once I've built the track. I'm 100% in the box working with virtual instruments. I can get a great sound with UAD's DAW and plugins, as well as some others. But having that analog character at the start of the chain would be great.
@@alecbrits My pleasure Alec. How would you compare the sound of the API vs the Neve 1073 DPX preamp? I would be interested in your feedback as I am currently looking for a quality pre-amp. Thanks... Philip NYC Area
They are very different sounds, although I would say that the 1073 OPX feels a little quicker and more open than my 1073DPX. I’m leaning a little more in the direction of the API’s in general at the moment. They are open, fast and have a kind saturation when pushed. I hope this helps!
@@alecbrits Yes I appreciate the input. (no pun intended). I don't have a 500 series rack, so I will need to check if API has a 19 inch rack version so I can compare units with Neve.
Great video, not sure if you could get your hands on one temporarily, but I would love to see you do a comparison video of these API Pres with the Silver Bullet's take on the API pres.
Exceptional video! Very informative and helpful. Years ago before I had preamps, I recorded my vocals through my Line 6 X3 Live and their versions of Neve 1073, API 512 and SSL. I clearly preferred the API so I've always wondered if an API 512V and 550 EQ would be great for me... I have a Maag PREQ, SSL Compressor clone and Telefunken TF29 mic and raspy-ish voice.
If you get the chance to demo an API pre, I would highly recommend it! :) it works well with my voice. The combination of the 550a just takes it to another level.
@@alecbrits For vocals do you prefer the API’s or Neve 1073? I am now trying the Neve 1073dpx and I’m very impressed, but as I stated above, wondered if the API’s would fit me better... Actually I don’t know if I like the 1073 EQ in vocals. Became too sibilant/mouth noises...
Nice video and superb sounding demo. I like 512 a lot but it is a hard beast to ride for me. In a few cases I had to retrack at lower gain because of some harsh sounding getting over that I couldn't control in the mix. Maybe the secret is to stay away from 0dB with some kind of instruments and vocals? An advice from long-time users of the 512 would be appreciated :)
Thanks for your input Massimo! :) I found it to be pretty forgiving on most sources I used it on. What I would say is that when I used it a lot, my usual mixbuss processing had to change to accommodate for the faster and more open tone of the API mic pre’s. :)
Awesome tone. Some preamps in 500 Series don't have an LED or VU meter, no DI and some only have a gain knob and no output control. Which is a bummer because I like the sound of the Chandler TG2 an d the H2 Helios but they don't have VU metering or a DI. The 512v has it all. May get me one.
@@alecbrits Great!!! I'll include your music on my reference tracks. Just love the vibe of your productions and how you write songs in general. Cheers sir!
One question about the good singing and sound of the vocal. Are there actually no EQ going on at all, no high pass? Thinking about the distance to the mic when you are singing I would expect way more boom, bass and mudd. Cheers!
Funny how people with Neve and SSL consoles always have a lunchbox full of 512 pres. As an Api Console user I've never felt the need for another pre although I do have a few eqs from ssl/neve and others.
You could if you had something like the fulcrum summing mixer. :) if you are looking for a little analog flavour, I would recommend going for something like the 550A or 550B EQ’s that way it’s easy to recall, and you have the option for having analog EQ on your master Buss.
Usually a couple takes of getting the levels sorted. :) i kind of aim to see where the levels are, and then make sure I have enough headroom for a dynamic performance. I hope this helps! :)
Hi Alec thank you very much for everything. I got the API 512 v now and im very happy with it. Since i use valhalla room instead of Fabfilter, there is even more clarity and presence to my ears. But for me, now it is slightly too harsh. You have some Idea, what to do? Sorry, If that's a noob question.. thank you!
Hey Johannes! :) I always use reverb on an aux buss and almost always eq post reverb. On vallalla room you can find where to cut the top end of the reverb using the cutoff slider. A combination of the cutoff and post reverb eq is my recipe. Hope this helps!
I think that you know what kind kinds of tones are best for your style of recording. Sometimes having options is more useful than just having one sound.
newbie question, in 500 series rack, if you go from one mic pre (hypothetically clean pre) into the next adjacent pre (color) engaging its line input. would that add coloration from the transformers in the circuit it may have or its not supposed to work that way?
Hey Zara! :) if the mic pre has a line input, then sure! There are no rules with this stuff, but if there is not a dedicated line input, then it’s worth being a little cautious. The other thing to look out for is additional noise being added into the circuit. But if you find the tone that you are looking for, then go for it!
@@alecbrits thanks for the input. I mean there wouldn't be any dedicated like input when it comes to 500 series. I was just thinking plugging into mic input and engaging "line" button front of the front of preamp, or is that wrong. Another CZcamsr engineer against advised stacking preamps so I'm not sure
I currently have some Capis and used to own the 512c. If you go the Capi route be sure to get some red dots in there as I find the 2520s to be too dark for my tastes. I currently have Capi Heiders as I found them to be better than the VP28s for most of what I do. I have not missed the APIs at all though I still think They are great. The real issue with the 512c is not being able to drive it unless you have an external pad after. On drums this is a big issue as API pres are super hot. APi corrected this with the 512v.
@@bricechandler5772 thanks, can I ask you what instrument you play and what music do you make? I am looking around for pres, I'm after open but round kind of sounds, but I'd like the option to colour the sound creatively. From the few things I've seen on the Internet, heiders are "fat" and VP28s are more transparent, but I may be totally wrong!
@@robertopistolesi2735 Guitar, mandolin, banjo etc and I play mostly folk, americana. The VP28s with red dots and The Heiders sound very similar, like really really close. The Heider is a bit more extended in the bottom and top end, I would've been happy with either to be honest.
@@bricechandler5772 thank you very much, I'm thinking to but a pair of heiders and a couple of more transparent pre's for my ribbons for OH drum tracking
Can I get in touch with you? I have an audient asp4816 and for some reason my mic pre’s are super hot even when the gain is all the way down, with multiple mics, and multiple sources. I was wondering if we can have a chat about your set up someday, cheers!
@@alecbrits Sweet I just sent the request, I’ll send you a video message when I go to the studio so I can show you what I mean. I really appreciate it!
oh bro...so good music and voice. so i almost forget why I click this video.i feel api 512c so good but your another gears good too...so idk what is going on 😂 how do you think for vocal mic preamp. 1073lb vs api512c I think your voice so good on api512c
Thank you so much! I think I’m realising that I’m more of an API fan! It’s super open but still got some of that stunning vibe. :) at the moment I’m leaning very much towards the API mic pre’s.
The biggest thing for me is fatigue. I can work on the ATC’s all day and not feel like my ears are exhausted. The mid range on the ATC’s is beautifully revealing.
@@alecbrits That is very important! I've heard the ATC's are much flatter than the Barefoots (leaning toward a smile shaped eq). I was surprised to see them both in your videos
Alec, Thanks for this. I am currently filling a 10 slot 500 rack. I purchased a Neve 1073LB and it has blown me away. I have a plan for at least 1 more 1073LB and a couple of Neve 88R and then some API 512 V. I found the 1073 was amazing with Neumann u87, TLM 193 on acoustic guitar or vocal but when I used it with a Valve AT4060 it wasn't great. The AT 4060 works amazingly with a TLA Valve Pre. Huge open sound. I see you did a 1073opx review. How would the API compare to that? Is it a case that both have specific strengths? Would you prefer the API over the 1073 in general or would you use Neve for some applications and api for others? Thanks in advance.
Thanks Solitaire Studios! :) sounds like it’s going to be an incredible rack! Regarding the API VS 1073, I personally prefer the flexibility and openness of the API pre’s. The 1073 OPX’s have some of that stunning openness, but the added headroom and punch of the API has the leading edge for me. I hope that helps!
Also Alec, im in the market for a bunch of pres. I would like your opinion please. Would you say an API 3122v, a Great River single channel, a Chandler Germanium, and a BAE 1073 would cover my bases for most applications? I really want to cover a wide range of situations with this batch. Covering smooth but bright pop vocals, soul gooey thick vocals for sparser singer songwriter productions, modern hyperpop type stuff, and very effect fuzz aggro type stuff like Muse for instance. Any suggestions would be super welcome, i've come to trust your channel as a very dependable source over the last few years.
It’s is all original. :) it will start to be released from later this year. I’d likely go with a couple API’s and a couple Neves to start then go from there. :)
@@alecbrits For the type of music i do, i barely record anything acoustic aside from vocals and acoustic guitars, no drums, so im sure i wont need dual channels of a particular flavor. Thanks for the suggestion (Y)
I came for the preamp and stayed for the performance. This is fantastic.
Thank you so much!! :)
Agreed. Great song!!
Jo should put a record together with all the great songs that you tracked in your videos!!! Woud buy it immediately!!!
Working on it! :) thank you so much!
I had a similar feeling when I used API eq for the first time. It was like coming home.
That’s a really good way of saying how it felt! :)
I have one of these bad boys in my API The Channel Strip. Every vocal I've recorded over the last year has went through it, and I am not complaining!
So good! :) my current favorite for sure!
API have been my favourite pres for many years.
They are ace! :)
Dude, thanks for making this video. I've always love the API 512 and I have to have it after watching your video. Also, what and incredible song too. It's nice to hear some a demo video with talent.
Thank you so much!!
great performance! API preamps are amazing. now that everything was pretty much neve land for years, I hope we see a huge revival of this open sound now that dynamics are coming back to music.
API’s have a solid tone to them. I think that each pre has its time. Dynamic range is dictated by how you gain stage, I’ve made some pretty open recordings with Neve pre’s. So I think there is space for both flavours. :)
@@alecbrits me too! until they were crushed to bits in mastering :-)
The felt piano was really the standout for me here! Good stuff!
Thank you so much!
I know this is an API preamp review, and your song is killer, but sounds like some of the CAPI preamps would serve you well as they have the missing features you mentioned (filters and output fader). The VP28 is the best API style preamp I have personally used. Your videos are killer! MORE!
Thanks so much for the input! :) I’d love to try them out for sure.
You make me wanna buy every gear you demo. Damn your music is infectious. !!
Thank you so much!
You have a gorgeous clean sound and great songwriting! I am a follower now..
Thanks so much Brandon! :)
I love your channel, your honest reviews and your songs. High quality material!
Thanks Daniel! :)
This sounds so great. Great tune. Great review.
Thanks David! :)
Love from singapore! Omg I like the song!
Thank you so much! :)
dude, you made the best API 512 advertise I ever seen, thank you
Thank you so much! It’s a review! :) not an advertisement. But I do like them a lot.
@@alecbrits yes I know but it makes me want at least a couple :)
Hahaha, you and me both man. I’ve missed them everyday they have been away.
Great video! I appreciate how you describe your experience with the pre. That’s very useful info and also makes me want to get it now 😄
Thank you so much Marius! :)
I don't know why people don't like API vocals. I've pretty much always got good results.
I’m blown away by them! Really don’t want to send them back.
As a singer I prefer Chandler, like TG channel. Pretty sweet with a 47’ style mic
As usual, a great review with a fantastic performance! 👌
Thank you so much. 🚀
Welp API should send you a bonus check cuz I ordered one the morning after watching this 😂. Awesome demo and performance man. I can really hear some of that flavor from my favorite records.
Ahh! Congrats on your purchase! :)
That song was so good. Inspired me to get all that gear you used. Gonna take a heck of a long time and alot of saving money.
Thank you Jordan! :) you won’t regret any of them.
I Ended up getting a pair of the 512v’s. It sounds the same but with a a couple of extra features. Also If you push and “Maxout” the Variable Output Gain knob The mix feels a little tighter towards the center and a little less mellow but still Melodic and never Harsh.. (each instrument more concentrated).. then you have the extra Gain knob on the 512v to push it harder. this PreAmp is Pure 🔥🔥🔥 specially the 3D feel. Clarity, and coloration. It changed my Mix Printout Drastically. Great Example dude!
Also if makes the Track feel like a 1960 track in terms of instrument placements. Like you said it is not forgiven but beautiful. It will depict every detail when panning the various insteuments.
Amazing congratulations on your purchase!! I cannot wait to have a few API pre’s knocking around here. 👌🏽 thanks for the tips!
bro you make the best videos for every artist
Thank you so much! :)
Came to hear this song! Fire love API
Thanks so much! :)
Came to check out the API preamp, but couldn’t even focus on it because the performance was so good… stellar job!
Thank you so much Jacob!
Greatest vídeo, Mr.Alec.
I am watching ALL vídeos, for learn upon Studios and matter tools.
Lord bless you and family.
Thank you Felipe!
Great song, love it, love the sound.
Thank you so much! :)
my fav pair of micpres, i use them every day...
I miss having them here daily! :)
@@alecbrits and btw, really like your channel.....
Thank you Robert! Will keep working on it. :)
this song is fantastic
Thank you so much Stephen! :)
Well ... Beautiful song. thanks for the review and demo.
Thanks Todd! :)
what a song
Thanks Daniel. :)
Dude I love your music.
Thank you Kayak Bandits! :) will keep working on it.
API!!!!! The BEST
I’m a big fan! :)
TLM 103 into API is a great vocal chain too especially on female vocals where you need attitude! I did this with the API 3124, but I think the 312 & 512 are similar.
That sounds like a stunning vocal chain!
I have been using Api preamp with the TLM 103 on male vocals and it been mind blowing 🤯
Its interesting maybe because people is always more inclined for Neve their never get to try things
Its been very difficult for my to go for a preamp because of that.
I forgot to say it’s not even an analog unit, I have been using the Api Vision.
I have test UAD Manley,610,All the Neve Selections,Avalon, SSL you name it.
But im sold with api, My next move would be a 512c Preamp instead of Rupert 511 at the moment.
@@silveramateur571 I’ve had great results with male vocals on TLM 103 & API as well. I had two specific sessions/projects in mind when I mentioned the female vocals I recorded. I have the API Vision as well as the UAD API Preamp. You can’t go wrong with those! Neve is amazing too! It’s just that certain things lend different flavors. Also different singers have different harmonics and different strengths & weaknesses. It’s important to remember that different pieces of gear will accentuate or minimize different sounds.
@@1stCorinthians2_14 i agree with you
well I saw your post instagram now I am subscribed here..I love the content keep them coming
Thank you! :) welcome!
Man, the perfect video review!
Thank you Luan! :)
Wow this guy plays everything.. Makes me wana pick up a guitar or two but too much of a learning curve late in the game. I mainly do keys
Never too late to learn Zane. :) I gave drumming lessons to a guy in his 40’s for a while and he had great feel and ended up in a band after a couple years. It’s never too late. :)
Great demos of the API and Neve. Definitely preferred the Neve on you vocals. But the API shined on drums.
Thank you. :) always strange how peoples opinions are different, I loved singing into the API more than the 1073, but you are not the first person to say they preferred the 1073 on my voice.
I'm genuinely considering getting a pair of Mic/Line 512v's to run my stems back through them once I've built the track.
I'm 100% in the box working with virtual instruments. I can get a great sound with UAD's DAW and plugins, as well as some others. But having that analog character at the start of the chain would be great.
I think a processing unit might serve you better. :) something like the 550A’s or a stereo comp. To each their own of course!
great song bro!! great demostration, thanks
Thank you so much Martin! :)
Brilliant video...... really great song too👍👍👍
Thank you so much! :)
As always, vvv insightful and thouroughly enjoyed watching x
Thank you Mr Simon! :)
You make awesome tracks 👍
Thank you Niran! :)
The API Mic Pre sounded great...Your song sounded great....And your studio looks cool. All is good...Gave you a Sub.
Philip
NYC Area
Thank you so much!! :) it’s really appreciated.
@@alecbrits My pleasure Alec. How would you compare the sound of the API vs the Neve 1073 DPX preamp? I would be interested in your feedback as I am currently looking for a quality pre-amp. Thanks...
Philip
NYC Area
They are very different sounds, although I would say that the 1073 OPX feels a little quicker and more open than my 1073DPX. I’m leaning a little more in the direction of the API’s in general at the moment. They are open, fast and have a kind saturation when pushed. I hope this helps!
@@alecbrits Yes I appreciate the input. (no pun intended). I don't have a 500 series rack, so I will need to check if API has a 19 inch rack version so I can compare units with Neve.
There are a few API 19” options. :)
Good job mate, congratulations 👏
Thank you so much! :)
Damn. You’re pretty talented
That’s extremely kind! :) thank you Gabe!
@@alecbrits do you have an album or anything?
Wow I liked the song a lot! :)
Thank you!!
Subscribed! Keep up the great work! 👍🏻
Thanks so much Jonas. :)
Great video, not sure if you could get your hands on one temporarily, but I would love to see you do a comparison video of these API Pres with the Silver Bullet's take on the API pres.
It’s a little harder for me to try emulations against the actual units they are emulating at the moment. But will see what I can do!
I really like your vocals on this video wish we could hear this vs the Neve pres
Thanks! Sadly it’s gone back to the retailer again. I do miss having them around really!
@@alecbrits sounded awesome on your vocal I went to to listen to neve pres video and prefer how the vocals came out in this video definitely!
The API’s just have such a great forward sounding tone. It’s not harsh, but feels like it’s a more energetic performance always. So fun to work with.
Great content, great humor, great songwriting! Sub'd.
Thank you so much!! :D
nice Neumann headphones!
Thanks!!
You sir, are the shit
Hahaha, thank you Sweet Gav! :)
Great video!!
Thanks Fer! :)
great video, greetings 🖖 from NYC🍺🎸
Thanks.very much!! :)
Exceptional video! Very informative and helpful. Years ago before I had preamps, I recorded my vocals through my Line 6 X3 Live and their versions of Neve 1073, API 512 and SSL. I clearly preferred the API so I've always wondered if an API 512V and 550 EQ would be great for me... I have a Maag PREQ, SSL Compressor clone and Telefunken TF29 mic and raspy-ish voice.
If you get the chance to demo an API pre, I would highly recommend it! :) it works well with my voice. The combination of the 550a just takes it to another level.
@@alecbrits For vocals do you prefer the API’s or Neve 1073? I am now trying the Neve 1073dpx and I’m very impressed, but as I stated above, wondered if the API’s would fit me better... Actually I don’t know if I like the 1073 EQ in vocals. Became too sibilant/mouth noises...
Very nice!
Thanks Garth! :)
awesome channel !
Thank you so much! :)
THANKS
Thank you!
Nice video and superb sounding demo. I like 512 a lot but it is a hard beast to ride for me. In a few cases I had to retrack at lower gain because of some harsh sounding getting over that I couldn't control in the mix. Maybe the secret is to stay away from 0dB with some kind of instruments and vocals? An advice from long-time users of the 512 would be appreciated :)
Thanks for your input Massimo! :) I found it to be pretty forgiving on most sources I used it on. What I would say is that when I used it a lot, my usual mixbuss processing had to change to accommodate for the faster and more open tone of the API mic pre’s. :)
Any chance you'd do an API The Channel Strip review/demo or is it too old?
Oh I’d love to! :) they’ve just updated it I believe.
Awesome tone. Some preamps in 500 Series don't have an LED or VU meter, no DI and some only have a gain knob and no output control. Which is a bummer because I like the sound of the Chandler TG2 an d the H2 Helios but they don't have VU metering or a DI. The 512v has it all. May get me one.
Highly recommend that 512V. Big fan of the API pre’s. :)
Nice song Man
Thank you so much!! :)
Hey Alec do you have a spotify playlist of all your music? WOuld love to just hear your music :) Great work
Thanks so much Marco. :) I’ve not released anything I have written, starting from Q2 I’ll be releasing my own material this year.
@@alecbrits Great!!! I'll include your music on my reference tracks. Just love the vibe of your productions and how you write songs in general. Cheers sir!
One question about the good singing and sound of the vocal. Are there actually no EQ going on at all, no high pass? Thinking about the distance to the mic when you are singing I would expect way more boom, bass and mudd. Cheers!
There was no EQ added to any of the source material. The mic had the low pass engaged. Hope this helps! :)
@@alecbrits Thanks! And on the limiting side how much gain was applied?
@@jenssorquist172 about 5 dB. Tried to keep the GR below 4dB. :)
Funny how people with Neve and SSL consoles always have a lunchbox full of 512 pres. As an Api Console user I've never felt the need for another pre although I do have a few eqs from ssl/neve and others.
Yeah, totally makes sense to me!
LOOK AFTER YOURSELF AND BE KIND.
You know it! :)
Came to hear the API and stuck around for the song? Where can I get it? Lol
You we’ll be happy to know that the recording and writing process for the tunes is well underway here. :) news to come soon!
@@alecbrits cool! Keep me posted man
Can I use two of these as a stereo summing device. Left/Right and master my tracks via it?
You could if you had something like the fulcrum summing mixer. :) if you are looking for a little analog flavour, I would recommend going for something like the 550A or 550B EQ’s that way it’s easy to recall, and you have the option for having analog EQ on your master Buss.
How do you track yourself and check levels?
Usually a couple takes of getting the levels sorted. :) i kind of aim to see where the levels are, and then make sure I have enough headroom for a dynamic performance.
I hope this helps! :)
amazing. md421 demo!? or u87ai!? I only trust you
Thank you! :) I’ll definitely do a U87ai video.
Hi Alec thank you very much for everything. I got the API 512 v now and im very happy with it. Since i use valhalla room instead of Fabfilter, there is even more clarity and presence to my ears. But for me, now it is slightly too harsh. You have some Idea, what to do? Sorry, If that's a noob question.. thank you!
Hey Johannes! :)
I always use reverb on an aux buss and almost always eq post reverb. On vallalla room you can find where to cut the top end of the reverb using the cutoff slider. A combination of the cutoff and post reverb eq is my recipe.
Hope this helps!
@@alecbrits thank you very much! I will try...
Alec, could you please do a review of your wonderful looking Barefoot monitors?
Sure thing Ryan!
Yes!
Do you De-ess? or is that the mic or technique?
I don’t De-Ess for the videos. That’s all raw. I try to control sibilance while singing, or if it’s peaking, then I angle the mic a little. :)
This or the 88r lb??
Tough choice! Either would be solid. The API is my personal favourite. The 512V.
@@alecbrits Do you think it would be worth trading my 1073lb for the api??? :D
I think that you know what kind kinds of tones are best for your style of recording. Sometimes having options is more useful than just having one sound.
@@alecbrits That is definitely true! Thanks for the insight!
do you think I should wait and buy 3124v? I will be tracking drums
Yes! :) that’s what I am going to do.
newbie question, in 500 series rack, if you go from one mic pre (hypothetically clean pre) into the next adjacent pre (color) engaging its line input. would that add coloration from the transformers in the circuit it may have or its not supposed to work that way?
Hey Zara! :) if the mic pre has a line input, then sure! There are no rules with this stuff, but if there is not a dedicated line input, then it’s worth being a little cautious.
The other thing to look out for is additional noise being added into the circuit. But if you find the tone that you are looking for, then go for it!
@@alecbrits thanks for the input. I mean there wouldn't be any dedicated like input when it comes to 500 series. I was just thinking plugging into mic input and engaging "line" button front of the front of preamp, or is that wrong. Another CZcamsr engineer against advised stacking preamps so I'm not sure
@@suriyadunya9994 it’s worth trying at least trying. :) line buttons should be fine.
Thanks a lot for another highly informative video.
Have you tried the CAPI preamps? I was wondering how they compare to the classic API's.
Thank you so much Roberto! I have not tried the CAPI products as of yet sadly.
I currently have some Capis and used to own the 512c. If you go the Capi route be sure to get some red dots in there as I find the 2520s to be too dark for my tastes. I currently have Capi Heiders as I found them to be better than the VP28s for most of what I do. I have not missed the APIs at all though I still think They are great. The real issue with the 512c is not being able to drive it unless you have an external pad after. On drums this is a big issue as API pres are super hot. APi corrected this with the 512v.
@@bricechandler5772 thanks, can I ask you what instrument you play and what music do you make? I am looking around for pres, I'm after open but round kind of sounds, but I'd like the option to colour the sound creatively. From the few things I've seen on the Internet, heiders are "fat" and VP28s are more transparent, but I may be totally wrong!
@@robertopistolesi2735 Guitar, mandolin, banjo etc and I play mostly folk, americana. The VP28s with red dots and The Heiders sound very similar, like really really close. The Heider is a bit more extended in the bottom and top end, I would've been happy with either to be honest.
@@bricechandler5772 thank you very much, I'm thinking to but a pair of heiders and a couple of more transparent pre's for my ribbons for OH drum tracking
nice song !
Thanks Jerome! :)
Can I get in touch with you? I have an audient asp4816 and for some reason my mic pre’s are super hot even when the gain is all the way down, with multiple mics, and multiple sources. I was wondering if we can have a chat about your set up someday, cheers!
Sure thing man! Add me on Instagram. The handles are in the description of the videos.
@@alecbrits Sweet I just sent the request, I’ll send you a video message when I go to the studio so I can show you what I mean. I really appreciate it!
oh bro...so good music and voice. so i almost forget why I click this video.i feel api 512c so good but your another gears good too...so idk what is going on 😂 how do you think for vocal mic preamp. 1073lb vs api512c
I think your voice so good on api512c
Thank you so much!
I think I’m realising that I’m more of an API fan! It’s super open but still got some of that stunning vibe. :) at the moment I’m leaning very much towards the API mic pre’s.
@@alecbrits thanks to reply!
What is your take on the difference between footprints and the atcs you've used in other videos?
The biggest thing for me is fatigue. I can work on the ATC’s all day and not feel like my ears are exhausted. The mid range on the ATC’s is beautifully revealing.
@@alecbrits That is very important! I've heard the ATC's are much flatter than the Barefoots (leaning toward a smile shaped eq). I was surprised to see them both in your videos
what takamine it is?
EAN-10C :)
Alec, Thanks for this. I am currently filling a 10 slot 500 rack. I purchased a Neve 1073LB and it has blown me away. I have a plan for at least 1 more 1073LB and a couple of Neve 88R and then some API 512 V.
I found the 1073 was amazing with Neumann u87, TLM 193 on acoustic guitar or vocal but when I used it with a Valve AT4060 it wasn't great. The AT 4060 works amazingly with a TLA Valve Pre. Huge open sound.
I see you did a 1073opx review. How would the API compare to that? Is it a case that both have specific strengths? Would you prefer the API over the 1073 in general or would you use Neve for some applications and api for others? Thanks in advance.
Thanks Solitaire Studios! :) sounds like it’s going to be an incredible rack! Regarding the API VS 1073, I personally prefer the flexibility and openness of the API pre’s. The 1073 OPX’s have some of that stunning openness, but the added headroom and punch of the API has the leading edge for me. I hope that helps!
@@alecbrits Thank you. I am going to buy all mentioned. I might just purchase in a different order😁 Nice to have lots of flavours.👍
Absolutely! Look forward to hearing the results. :) enjoy!
Would love to hear what you can do with an Austrian Audio OC818
Ooooo, I’m SO keen to get my hands on a pair of them bad boys. 👌🏽
@@alecbrits I bought one recently. Amazing on acoustic. Crystal clear on vocals. Very nice bottom end.
is it active di of course?
I would assume so? Might be worth reaching out to API and asking.
damn i really wanted to buy this but looks like it needs freaking lunchbox to power this thing
Ya! :) it’s a 500 series unit.
If you can't dial in an at-least-acceptable tone on a 512, you can't dial in a tone
It’s hard to mess it up with this box! :)
good video, but huge thumb down since we didnt hear the sound of pre-amp.. only sh*t ton of instruments and effects
Thanks for the feedback. :)
This is crazy -- is this really all original music?
Are these songs of yours i can listen to on music platforms?
Also Alec, im in the market for a bunch of pres. I would like your opinion please. Would you say an API 3122v, a Great River single channel, a Chandler Germanium, and a BAE 1073 would cover my bases for most applications? I really want to cover a wide range of situations with this batch. Covering smooth but bright pop vocals, soul gooey thick vocals for sparser singer songwriter productions, modern hyperpop type stuff, and very effect fuzz aggro type stuff like Muse for instance. Any suggestions would be super welcome, i've come to trust your channel as a very dependable source over the last few years.
It’s is all original. :) it will start to be released from later this year.
I’d likely go with a couple API’s and a couple Neves to start then go from there. :)
@@alecbrits For the type of music i do, i barely record anything acoustic aside from vocals and acoustic guitars, no drums, so im sure i wont need dual channels of a particular flavor. Thanks for the suggestion (Y)