API 500-6B Lunchbox – 6-Slot Portable 500 Series Rack Chassis
The API 500-6B Lunchbox is a compact and portable 6-slot 500 Series chassis designed for engineers and producers who need a high-quality, travel-ready solution for housing their favorite 500 Series modules. Whether you’re building a vocal chain, assembling a mobile rig, or integrating specialty processors, the 500-6B delivers API’s renowned reliability and versatility in a durable, carry-anywhere format.
Fully compatible with all API 500 Series and VPR-approved modules, the 500-6B provides dependable power and connectivity in a sleek metal enclosure. It features an integrated power supply and rear panel XLR inputs and outputs for each slot, making it easy to plug into your studio or stage setup.
With its rugged construction, top-mounted handle, and compact footprint, the 500-6B is ideal for field recording, remote sessions, or quick setup transitions between studios and stages. It’s a trusted favorite for professionals looking for flexibility, portability, and API-grade build quality in one streamlined unit.
- Holds 6 API standard modules
- Rack Ears available for rack mounting (bought seperately)
- 6 Slots with 250 mA of current per slot
- DB-25 connectors for easy input and output connection
- XLRs to access channels 7 and 8 of the multipins
- Power rail LED indication
- Internal power supply; 100 to 250 Volts switchable, 47 to 63 Hz
- Rubber feet & carrying handle for portability
- Rugged steel chassis
- Perfect for remote recording of vocalist and instruments
The API 500-6B lunchbox is a 6-slot rack designed to accept all API standard 5.25″ X 1.5″ modules. This quality allows an engineer the flexibility to bring along specialized EQ effects to any situation: 550A, 550b or 560. The lunchbox has an internal power supply with a rear panel selected AC voltage switch and a removable power cord. The input/output jacks are XLR. The lunchbox comes standard with a +48 volt internal phantom power supply, bussed to pin 15 for interface with the API 512c Mic Preamplifier.
API makes several modules for the 500-6B, including the 512c Mic Preamplifier, the 525 Compressor, the 527 Compressor, the 550A 3-band EQ, the 550b 4-band EQ and the 560 Graphic EQ. Combinations of these modules make perfect stereo recording packages (two 512cs and two 550bs) or vocalist’s box (one 512c, two EQs and one 527).
Other uses for the versatile lunchbox include:
- Multi-track recording of acoustic and electronic audio sources
- Sound reinforcement systems and recording to multi-track formats
- Multiple facility projects where portability is a plus
- Broadcast and audio for video production
- Custom channel input strips