An Abbreviated History of API

In 1969, Automated Processes Incorporated was formed by engineers and musicians who shared a common vision: to create the highest possible quality professional audio gear, and then back it up with excellent customer service. 50 years later, that vision is stronger than ever and remains an integral part of API's extraordinary success.

Below are a series of landmarks representative of API's contributions over the years to the audio community. We're grateful for the inspired genius of API Founder Saul Walker, and we're grateful for an ever-expanding number of users that recognize the unique value of API. That's why from the largest recording console to the smallest internal components, API continues our tradition of manufacturing the world's best analog recording equipment and offering the audio community our unmistakably warm analog sound.

 

1967
First API console sold to Apostolic Studios in New York City

1968
API co-founder Saul Walker creates the 2520 Discrete Circuit

1969
Saul Walker pioneers modular design with the introduction of the 500 Series modules

1969
API introduces the 500 EQ—one of the first 500 Series modules

1969
First commercial console shown at AES in the fall of 1969, sold to Sound Ideas

1969
API develops and manufactures first conductive plastic faders

 

1970
Les Paul purchases one of the first modular API consoles

1971
The 550A is added to the 500 Series

1973
The first computerized console automation systems for the control of fader levels

1974
API produces the first computer-programmable console with automation of EQ, sends, pans and faders. Far ahead of its time, the system was eventually called Total Recall

1974
Saul Walker invents the first Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA)

1974
The company develops one of the first tape synchronizer systems

1976
API console is built with red, white and blue knobs to celebrate the bicentennial

1977
Develops first micro-processor based crosspoint intercoms for use in broadcast and production, which become the basis for the discrete series bus assignment system

 

1983
The 2510 circuit is introduced in the Discrete Series console line

1985
API lunchbox® officially begins production

 

1991
First console manufactured utilizing touch-screen computer assignment for complete switch reset

1992
First full Legacy console is installed at Green Street

1997
The Legacy Plus console begins production

1999
Larry Droppa of Audio Toys, Inc. (ATI) acquires API

 

2000
Patented THRUST® circuit is adapted from ATI designs and introduced in the 2500 stereo bus compressor rackmount unit

2003
Large format Vision consoles are introduced, with Vision Automation

2004
Galaxy Studios adds 80 channel Vision console, the largest of its kind ever built to date

2006
API initiates the VPR Alliance, which encourages other companies to develop compatible modules for the 500 Series

2007
Blackbird Studio purchases the largest Legacy Plus console ever built, at 96 channels

2008
API adds the 1608, an updated version of the 1604 console from the 1970s, to the console collection

2008
API successfully trademarks the shape of the control knob on API products

2009
API celebrates during the New York AES with a 40th year anniversary party at the famed Roseland Ballroom

 

2010
Film and television composer William Anderson of Anderson Scores purchases the 100th 1608 console

2010
The lunchbox® receives official trademark registration

2011
API collaborates with Waves to introduce the first licensed versions of API-modeled software. API software plugins quickly become the best-selling collection in the Waves line.

2011
Automation is introduced for the 1608 console

2011
Universal Audio introduces API-authorized plug-ins

2013
API's smallest footprint console THE BOX® is introduced at AES

2016
API debuts its new large format console, the Legacy AXS, at AES

2017
The 512 and 3124 mic pres are revamped to include the "V" variable output feature

2017
API introduces the groundbreaking TranZformer Series guitar and bass pedals

2018
The 529 Stereo Compressor, API's first dual slot 500 series module, is released

2018
The 1608 console enters its tenth year of constant production

2018
API introduces the 1608-II Console

2018
API introduces the 2448 Console

2019
API celebrates its 50th anniversary

2019
THE BOX Console, with four additional input channels and four additional 500 series slots debuts at the NAMM Show in California

2019
API releases the 550A and 312 50th Anniversary Edition modules with a limited run and gold Faceplate celebrating API's Golden Anniversary

2019
API releases the 862 Channel Strip and the 2500 50th Anniversary Edition modules with a limited run and gold Faceplate celebrating API's Golden Anniversary

2019
API Releases Final TouchTM Automation

2019
API Celebrates Our 50th Anniversary at Sony Music Hall in New York City