McDSP APB-8
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
McDSP
APB-8
Product Info
Article Number:
494696
Brand:
McDSP
Model:
APB-8
Category:
Compressors, Gates and De-essers
Price:
$4,398.90
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The APB-8 is a powerhouse for engineers and mixers seeking a truly analogue feel with modern flexibility. It’s like having a rack full of meticulously crafted vintage processors, all controllable via plugin integration. This is a serious tool for those wanting to impart a distinct, warm, and characterful sound to their mixes and masters, particularly in genres like hip-hop, electronic music, and film scoring.
Product Description
- McDSP APB-8
- Analogue Processing Box
- 8-Channel analogue processor with plug-in control
- Provides mixer simulation and nine different analogue dynamics processors for mixing and mastering
- TAPE: Analogue emulation of magnetic tape machines with four-stage processing
- selectable tape type and characteristics of the playback head as well as adjustable tape compression
- BOB: Bass optimisation with controlled compression of the low frequencies
- KD-1 Kinetic Drive: Analogue saturation with three circuit variants
- kinetics control and frequency-specific application
- Royal Mu: Two-channel compressor/limiter with MS mode and sidechain
- including surround variant
- Royal Q: Hybrid equaliser with 2 x 4 bands
- analogue output stage and MS mode
- MC-3: Multiband compressor with three bands
- Moo X: Hybrid mixing console with up to 48 mono or stereo channels
- channel EQ
- analogue compressor and saturation
- and a master section with stereo analogue compressor and saturation
- C673-A: Dynamic range compressor with a sound orientated on the Fairchild 670
- EL MOO: Tube limiter with analogue saturation
- MOO TUBE: Compressor with a discreet character for a wide range of applications
- ChickenHead: Aggressive compressor with its own sound character
- L-18: Transparent limiter for all tasks and surround support up to 7.1 in Avid Pro Tools Ultimate (not for AU
- VST3)
- C-18: Universal compressor with a neutral sound
- 32-bit converter
- Supported sample rates: 44.1
- 88.2
- 176.4
- 192 kHz
- Frequency response: 10 - 20
- 000 Hz +/-0.005 dB
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 113 dB (A-weighted)
- THD+N: 0.02%
- Supported DAWs: Ableton Live 11 min
- Avid Pro Tools 12 min
- Apple Logic Pro X 10
- 4 min
- Steinberg Cubase / Nuendo 10.x min
- Universal Audio LUNA
- Dimensions: 483 x 44 x 406 mm
PROS
- • Exceptional sonic character, emulating high-end analogue gear.
- • TAPE module delivers convincing warmth and subtle compression.
- • BOB provides precise bass shaping and tightening capabilities.
- • Royal Mu’s MS processing offers unique stereo manipulation.
CONS
- • Steep learning curve due to the sheer number of modules.
- • Size and weight make it unsuitable for mobile setups.
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for most studios.
Product Video
Key Features
Type
Analogue Dynamics Processor & Mixer Simulation
Channels
8
Controls
Rotary encoders, switches, LED metering, plugin control interface
Connections
16 XLR inputs/outputs, multiple insert points, MIDI in/out
Metering
Dual-layer LED metering with peak and RMS indicators
Weight
35 lbs
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Frequently Asked Questions
The plugin control allows for precise recall and automation of settings, bridging the gap between analogue warmth and digital convenience, although it requires a compatible host system.
It convincingly captures the subtle sonic artifacts of various tape types and head characteristics, adding a layer of realism and complexity often missing in digital emulations.
While individual units offer more focused processing, the APB-8 provides a cohesive, integrated workflow and a broader range of options in a single, space-saving unit.
