API Audio 3122V
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
The 3122V is a serious preamp, bringing that classic API vibe – think 70s rock and soul – to your recordings. It’s got that aggressive, upfront sound that really makes instruments cut through the mix, and the build quality is rock solid. Ideal for engineers and musicians chasing that iconic API sound without the expense of a full console.
Product Description
- API Audio 3122V
- 2-Channel Microphone And Instrument Preamp
- Classic API circuit design
- API 2520 output amplifier
- AP2516 input amplifier
- Fixed frequency HP filter
- Max. 68dB of gain
- Phantom power: +48V
- -20 dB Pad and polarity switch
- VU meter
- Peak LED
- Switch for 3: 1 output amplifier tap selection
- Variable output control
- 2 Mic/Line Hi-Z combo inputs: XLR/jack 6.3 mm
- 2 Mic inputs: XLR
- 2 Line outputs: XLR
- Design: 19" / 1U
- Dimensions (W x H x D): approx. 48.26 x 4.44 x 27.94 cm
- Weight: approx. 4.08 kg
PROS
- • API's signature aggressive, punchy sound delivers incredible warmth.
- • 2520 output amp adds significant transient detail and headroom.
- • Robust, all-steel chassis ensures exceptional durability and longevity.
- • Flexible output tap selection allows tailoring gain staging and tone.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for smaller studios.
- • Fixed HP filter lacks versatility for modern recording techniques.
- • Relatively heavy for a 2-channel preamp; rack mounting is recommended.
Product Video
Key Features
Channels
2
Preamp Type
Discrete API Classic
Gain Range
Up to 68dB
Phantom Power
+48V
Connections
2 XLR/Jack combo inputs, 2 XLR mic inputs, 2 XLR line outputs
Weight
4.08 kg
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Frequently Asked Questions
The 3:1 tap provides a slightly more compressed, harmonically rich tone, useful for drums or vocals needing extra glue.
Not really; it imparts a noticeable character – a warm saturation – even at lower gain settings, which is its charm.
The 3122V offers a more refined, slightly less aggressive tone than the 512, with a more modern feel while retaining the core API sonic signature.
