General
The API Audio 527 is a fully-adjustable compressor/limiter for the modular API-500 rack system. It has variable attack, release and ratio as well as a potentiometer for the output level. It's also got a Thrust circuit on board that switches on a high-pass filter for the compressor giving you control over the dynamics without losing any punch from the low frequencies. The 527 is easy to use and retains its excellent sound quality no matter how extreme you make the settings. This compressor is perfect for all sorts of musical applications including vocals, acoustic instruments and drums.
API Audio 527 Compressor / Limiter
Like most compressors, this model has threshold, ratio, attack, release and output level controls. There's also a VU meter that shows either the output level or the level of the gain reduction depending on a switch setting. Another switch lets you choose between soft and hard knee compression. If you want to connect the 527 to another model for stereo applications, there's a switch for that too. In addition to the thrust function, there's also a switch that lets you select between Old and New types of compression. Old gives you a feed-back method of compression used in classic compressors that feeds the output signal of the VCA into the side chain circuit. New uses a feed-forward method found in modern compressors that sends the input signal into the side chain circuit.
Advantages of the Lunchbox Format API-500
API introduced the lunchbox format. This is a modular system that lets you choose the high-quality peripherals you want that can then be easily installed into a single rack. It's known as the API-500 format. Being able to choose the components you want is one of the biggest advantages of this system. Another one is the fact that everything can be powered from the rack itself which saves you money because you don't have to buy separate power supplies for all the parts you choose. It's also handy to have everything installed in a single rack because it's much neater and more portable too.
