Faithfully recreating one of the most sought-after API Audio mic preamps, the 312 is a 500-series mic preamp module sporting 69 dB of warm, vintage-style gain. Loaded with API's proprietary 2520 op-amp, AP2516 input transformer, and discrete circuitry all around, this legendary mic pre provides massive headroom and a smooth sound for a diversity of studio applications.
The 312 sports a -20 dB pad switch for handling excessively loud inputs. Input monitoring is enabled via the illuminated VU meter (0 VU = +4 dBu) and a red peak LED indicator. By hitting the 3:1 output transformer tap selector button, the preamp reduces the output gain ratio from 1:3 to 1:1, which equates to approximately 10 dB. The mic pre also features selectable 48V phantom power and a polarity inversion switch. The onboard gain control provides adjustment from +34 to +69 dB (without the pad engaged).
Based on API cofounder Saul Walker’s original designs, the API 312 Mic Pre combines API's 2520 op-amps and proprietary transformers. It delivers the analog warmth, massive headroom, and unmistakable sound for which API is known, in a convenient 500-series format.