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