API TCS-II Channel Strip

The API TCS-II Channel Strip is a testament to the legacy of API’s large-format consoles, offering a comprehensive front-end solution for your audio needs. The TCS-II brings an updated compressor, enhanced preamp controls, and peak metering, all encased in a rackmount unit. This Channel Strip is a rich blend of classic API modules, including the 512c Mic Preamplifier, 527A Compressor, 550A Equalizer, and 325 Line Driver. It’s equipped with extensive patching facilities, dual 10-segment LED peak metering displays, multiple balanced insert points, a sidechain input, and an output mute switch. Each processing section can be independently switched and bypassed, with an option to route the compressor pre- or post-EQ. True to API’s heritage, the TCS-II is outfitted with API transformers and 2510 and 2520 op-amps, ensuring authentic API sound quality.

API 512c Mic Preamplifier

• Rich in API’s signature sonic character, the 512c Preamplifier offers a line preamp at unity gain, an instrument preamp with 50dB of gain, and a mic preamp with 68dB of gain.
• Features include a -6dB line pad, -20dB microphone pad, switchable +48V phantom power, a polarity inverter, and peak LED metering.
• The 512c Preamplifier is powered by API’s 2510 and 2520 op-amps, ensuring genuine API sound.

API 527A Compressor

• The 527A Compressor section includes adjustable Threshold, Attack, Release, and Ratio controls, with options for feed-forward/feedback and hard-/soft-knee compression.
• Features API’s unique Thrust for frequency-dependent sidechain control, a 10-segment gain-reduction meter, a sidechain input, and a Link switch for multiple-unit compression linking.
• A Comp Bypass switch with hard-relay switching and an internal routing switch for post-EQ compression are also included.
• The 527A Compressor uses 2510 and 2520 discrete op-amps.

API 550A Equalizer

• The 550A Equalizer is a revered classic, offering three bands of API equalization.
• Each band has seven API-selected frequency centers, with up to 12dB of boost/cut per band.
• Features reciprocal and repeatable filtering, shelf/peak switching for the Low and High EQ bands, and a bandpass filter.
• Equipped with API’s Proportional Q for nuanced filter Q adjustments at extreme settings.
• The 550A Equalizer utilizes a traditional, discrete API circuit design with 2520 op-amps.

API 325 Line Driver

• The 325 Line Driver, derived from classic API console designs, features switchable insert return, remote-controllable soft mute function, and full attenuation up to +10dB of gain.
• Offers a high headroom with a +30dB clip level, an output level pot, and a 10-segment LED VU meter.
• The output level of the TCS-II’s 512c Mic Preamplifier can be displayed on the meter.
• Includes a 2520 discrete op-amp and a transformer-coupled output.

Built for Longevity

• API has been renowned since the 1970s for its durable, military-grade build quality.
• Vintage API consoles, meticulously hand-assembled with discrete circuit designs, are still operational worldwide.
• The TCS-II Channel Strip is built in this tradition, ensuring reliability and superior performance for years.

API: An American Pro Audio Icon

• Since its inception in 1968, API has been a frontrunner in high-quality console manufacturing for broadcast and recording studios.
• Innovations from API include the 500 Series module, the first VCA, and computerized console automation.
• The 2520 amplifier, a cornerstone in the recording industry, is a notable API creation.
• API’s products are fixtures in renowned studios like the Hit Factory, Record Plant, Ocean Way, and Sunset Sound.

API TCS-II Channel Strip Features:

• A complete solution embodying the classic API console sound.
• The 512c Mic Preamplifier offers comprehensive preamplification options.
• The 527A Compressor provides versatile compression settings and controls.
• The 550A Equalizer delivers three bands of classic API equalization.
• The 325 Line Driver includes an output level control and mute option.
• Full patching facilities are available on the rear panel.
• Features two 10-segment LED VU displays.
• Includes multiple balanced insert points and a sidechain input.
• Individual bypass switches for each section.
• Option to internally route the compressor pre- or post-EQ.
• Incorporates API transformers and 2510 and 2520 op-amps for the authentic API