API 312 — Microphone Preamp

Best for

Recording engineers and studios with a compatible 500 Series rack who want one API 312 microphone-preamp channel with up to 69 dB of gain.

Who should skip

Skip it if you need a self-contained rackmount preamp, do not have compatible 500 Series power and I/O, or require a product explicitly documented for instrument DI.

Watchouts

A compatible 500 Series rack is required and is not part of the documented 312 module. API documents the 312 as a microphone preamp, not a direct box. Confirm rack power, connector compatibility, source condition, and current retailer availability before deciding.

Likely add-ons

• compatible 500 Series rack with the documented 15-position edge connector and ±16 V DC power
• microphone and downstream audio cabling appropriate to the rack

Verify before buying

• Does the intended 500 Series rack provide the documented connector, ±16 V DC power, and sufficient current?
• Does the workflow need microphone preamplification only, or a separately documented instrument DI input?
• Are the VU meter, peak LED, pad, transformer-tap selector, and phantom-power switch functioning correctly?
• Is the verified retail listing offer still new and in stock at the displayed CAD price?