The API Vision Channel Strip Collection from Universal Audio captures the iconic sound of API's flagship analog console. For over 50 years, API desks have added a distinct punch, presence, and color to hit albums like Stevie Wonder's Innervisions and Radiohead's In Rainbows. In 2013, the API Vision Channel Strip plug - in was released, and now the updated collection offers a more genuine API tone. It features switchable EQ modules, a well - modeled output section, and all the key recording and mixing functions of API's compression, gating, and filter modules. Key features include a stunning emulation of the API console channel for tracking and mixing, new 560L series 10 - band graphic EQ and 550L parametric EQ for source shaping, an API 212L preamp with a 2520 API op - amp and custom transformers, a 235L Gate/Expander for ambience and effect creation, an API 225L compression circuit for transient control, and artist presets from Joe Chiccarelli and others. The collection comes in UAD Native (runs on Mac or PC without UA hardware) and Apollo Realtime & UAD - 2 (accelerated on Apollo interfaces and UAD - 2 hardware) versions. You can choose between the 550L 4 - band parametric EQ and the 560L series 10 - band graphic EQ with a click. The 560L EQ emulation helps you sweeten guitars, add aggression to drums, and push vocals forward. With Apollo interfaces and Unison technology, it gets even better, offering the behaviors of the API 212L preamp. The 225L compressor is versatile for all instruments and genres, with selectable 'New' and 'Old' compression functions. The 235L Noise Gate/Expander shapes ambience and controls noise, and the 215L Hi and Lo pass filters are great for EQ sculpting.
Using the API Vision Channel Strip Collection is easy. First, choose the version that suits your setup - the UAD Native if you're using a Mac or PC without UA hardware, or the Apollo Realtime & UAD - 2 if you have Apollo interfaces or UAD - 2 hardware. When it comes to EQ, click the EQ Type button to switch between the 550L parametric EQ and the 560L graphic EQ. Use the 560L for quick sweetening of guitars, adding more punch to drums, or making vocals stand out. For preamp settings, if you're using an Apollo interface, Unison technology will give you the feel of the API 212L preamp. Just set it up according to your needs and enjoy the unique sound. The 225L compressor can be used on any instrument. You can select between the 'New' and 'Old' functions depending on how much compression you want, from a light touch to a heavy one. The 235L Gate/Expander is great for controlling the ambience of individual sources like kick drums or bass synths, and it can also reduce noise from drums or guitar amps. The 215L Hi and Lo pass filters are perfect for broad - stroke EQ work. Just sweep them to get the right tone. As for maintenance, make sure your software is always up - to - date to get the best performance. And keep your hardware in a clean and dry environment if you're using Apollo interfaces or UAD - 2 hardware.
