Korena
Product detailSKU #1500000030198

API512v Discrete Mic/Line Preamp

API
API 512v Discrete Mic/Line Preamp

Independent shopping perspective

The Korena take

API’s 512v is a hand-assembled 500 Series preamp for microphone, line, and instrument signals. Its front-panel Combo-style XLR/1/4-inch input keeps connections close at hand, while rear mic access adds routing flexibility in an API lunchbox, 10-position 500V vertical rack, or API console. With 65 dB of gain, a -129 EIN noise specification, variable output control, selectable 3:1 transformer setting, phantom power, polarity switching, and a -20 dB pad, it covers a broad range of input setups.

API 512v Discrete Mic/Line Preamp product detail
Product studyAPI 512v Discrete Mic/Line Preamp

Strong match

Who this is for

  • Recording microphone, line, or instrument sources with a 500 Series preamp.
  • Changing input and output settings directly from the preamp’s front panel.
  • Using rear mic access within an API lunchbox, 500V vertical rack, or console.

Consider the trade-offs

When to look elsewhere

  • Setups that do not use the API 500 Series format or the listed API installation options.

What matters in use

The specifications, translated

Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.

Detail 01

65 dB gain

Provides up to 65 dB of gain.

Detail 02

-129 EIN

The preamp is specified for low noise at -129 EIN.

Detail 03

Variable Output control

Output level can be adjusted from the front panel.

Detail 04

Switchable 3:1 output transformer selection

A 3:1 output transformer setting can be selected.

Detail 05

-20 dB pad

A -20 dB pad is available when needed.

Detail 06

Mic or Instrument/Line selector

The input mode can be switched between mic and instrument/line.

Final check

Know before you order

  1. 01Plan for an API lunchbox, API 10-position 500V vertical rack, or API console to use the stated rear-panel mic access.

Product questions

Before you decide

Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.

01What sources can the 512v preamp handle?

It is designed for microphone, line, and instrument signals.

02Does the 512v provide phantom power?

Yes. Phantom power is included.

03What inputs are on the front panel?

The front panel has a Combo-style XLR and 1/4-inch connector.

04Can I reverse polarity or engage a pad?

Yes. It includes switchable polarity and a -20 dB pad.

Worth comparing

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