A small revolution happened a few years ago when API Audio decided to open up their very popular 500 series format to the industry.

Whilst the 500 series in concept is actually taken directly from their console line, this has led to, not quite a replacement, but certainly an augmentation from pure rack processors to power supply-less modules. Because the power is already provided, and because the modules themselves are small they can be cheaper than their rackmount equivalents.

You can have a Neve Mic-pre, FET, VCA or OPTO compressor and an API EQ all in the same housing for a fraction of a cost these processors would cost as rack units. This has opened up serious recording to even more people, and once again, increased the sonic palette available. Pretty much every processor and style of sound is available for the 500 series.

High Quality Mic-Preamps, Tube mic-pres, Tube compressors, even Fairchild style compressors and all types of EQ : Parametric, Graphic and Pultec circuits. Then there are Filters, Headphone Amps, De-essers, and some AD/DA convertors available in this format.

There are sometimes compromises to be made and the 'Is the 500-Series For Me' article below covers many of the areas in question.

However, these compromises are for the most part accepted due to the fact they are much less expensive than comparable rackmount units, and are often used as additions to already well stocked racks. With thousands of empty 500 series slots out there KMR has a wide selection available for demo in your own creative space.