API 2500+ Stereo Bus Compressor
The API 2500+ is a high-end stereo/dual mono compressor that delivers legendary punch, tone shaping, and dynamic control, making it an essential tool for both mixing and mastering engineers. Housed in a 19-inch rack-mountable unit, the 2500+ offers dual-channel operation that can be configured for linked stereo processing or independent dual mono use, all while maintaining API’s signature analog sound quality.
A key feature of the 2500+ is the patented THRUST® circuit — a unique high-pass filter placed before the RMS detector that preserves low-end punch while compressing, giving your mixes the “chest-hitting” energy that API is known for. Combined with adjustable threshold (-20 to +10 dBu), variable ratio, attack, and release times, and switchable “Old” (feedback) and “New” (feed-forward) compression styles, the 2500+ gives engineers precise control over tone and transient response.
Also included is the new Mix/Blend circuit, allowing parallel compression or crossfading between dry and processed signal. With three operation modes — OFF, Cross (X), and Parallel (||) — this feature adds serious versatility for modern mixing workflows. The auto-makeup gain function ensures consistent output levels as you tweak compression settings.
API’s legendary 2520 op amps are at the core of the 2500+, ensuring rich harmonic content and unmistakable character. The unit also includes balanced sidechain inputs, soft/medium/hard knee options, and a fully discrete analog signal path with a hard relay bypass for true signal transparency when bypassed.
Key Features:
- Stereo or dual mono operation with variable channel linking
- Expanded variable threshold: -20 dBu to +20 dBu
- Selectable ratio, attack, and release times
- THRUST® circuit with 3 settings for low-end punch
- “Old” (feedback) and “New” (feed-forward) compression modes
- Soft, Medium, or Hard knee for flexible compression behavior
- New Mix/Blend control for parallel or crossfade compression
- Auto or manual gain makeup
- Balanced 1/4″ sidechain inputs
- Fully balanced signal path with API 2520 op amps
- Output clips at +32 dBu
- Over Threshold LED for visual compression monitoring
- Dual analog VU meters showing input, output, and gain reduction
- True hard relay bypass
- Made in the USA with API’s 5-year parts warranty
The API 2500+ is a powerful and musical stereo bus compressor designed to bring out the best in your mixes — from subtle glue to aggressive punch, always with that unmistakable API sound.