API Select T25 2-channel Tube Compressor

Legendary API Compression with a Tube Twist

When we heard that API was releasing a hybrid FET/tube compressor/limiter — the API Select T25 — we were surprised and delighted. Surprised, because since the late ’60s, the revered American pro audio company has been synonymous with world-class solid-state gear. And delighted (or perhaps more accurately, tantalized), given the implied sonic potential. The API Select T25 is a classic, 2-channel FET feedback-type compressor/limiter with a Class A tube output stage employing a custom-wound API transformer. It offers a powerful and versatile feature set that includes stereo and dual-mono modes; and as you would expect, it delivers the best performance aspects of both worlds: the speed and responsiveness of a FET-based gain-reduction circuit, and the euphonic warmth of tubes. But there’s no trace of the “flabby” character tube gear can exhibit, because the T25 is packing big iron: the output stage balances tubular warmth with the tightness and punch of a proprietary AP2516 transformer.

Versatility and performance

For over half a century, engineers and producers have relied on API consoles and processing gear to deliver the world-class sound that makes their recordings stand out from the crowd. API gear boasts military-grade build quality and componentry such as the AP2516 output transformer found in the T25. Versatility is a hallmark of API equipment, and to that end, the T25 features a comprehensive control set that provides total flexibility in shaping its gain-reduction action: a 31-step input/threshold control, four fixed ratios (2:1, 4:1, 8:1, and 20:1), 11-step rotary switches for setting attack and release times, a 31-step output/makeup gain control, and a Link switch for stereo operation. All controls are detented for easy recall, while 10-segment LED gain reduction meters and peak indicators keep you status-savvy, putting you in firm control over your dynamics at all times.

Iron-fisted, velvet-gloved dynamics control

API has equipped the T25 with its patented Thrust circuit, a proprietary loudness contour that packs a powerful punch, imbuing each octave with the same energy (instead of half the energy as the next lowest one, as is the case in most compressors). Also onboard is API’s D-S feature, giving you high-frequency-dependent sidechain control for effortless, one-button de-essing. Powerful features, indeed; but it’s the T25’s tube output stage that steals the show. The 12AT7WC and 12BH7 dual-triode vacuum tubes join forces with a custom API transformer to help the T25 deliver iron-fisted, velvet-gloved dynamics control that you can fine-tune to work magic on any source material. And we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the T25’s totally boss visuals, complete with glowing tube vent windows and round VU output meters that highlight this advanced vintage-modern design.

An exciting new direction: API Select

The iconic API sound has never been associated with tubes — until now. Along with its API Select stablemates, the T25 heralds an exciting new direction for the storied pro audio firm. Company President Larry Droppa explains: “Over the years, we’ve acquired the technology and experience to engineer and produce audio products that don’t necessarily conform to API’s classic component structure or topography. . . . API Select gives us the opportunity to offer gear that’s very high quality, but that’s different from API’s legendary line of classic products.” The API Select series is certainly a momentous development in the pro audio world: a new generation of modern classics that offer enticing sound-shaping possibilities for audio professionals in music recording, broadcast, and post production.

API: an American pro audio legend

Launched in 1968 by Saul Walker, Automated Processes Inc. began building high-quality consoles for broadcast applications. Soon, the company’s products found favor with recording studios, and a string of industry-leading innovations (including the 500 Series module, the first VCA, computerized console automation, and more) followed. API produced the 2520 amplifier, one of the most famous op-amps in the recording industry, and their consoles and products found homes in such iconic studio facilities as the Hit Factory, Record Plant, Ocean Way, Sunset Sound, and many others. In fact, there are over 700 vintage API consoles around the globe — many of which are still in use. Clearly, the company isn’t resting on its laurels; today’s API and API Select products give you the same unbeatable combination of utility, innovation, and stellar sound. That’s why, at Sweetwater, the name API commands reverence.

API Select T25 2-channel Tube Compressor/Limiter Features:

• Field Effect Transistor (FET)-based gain reduction circuit
• Audio circuit uses 12AT7WC and 12BH7 dual-triode vacuum tubes
• Custom proprietary API AP2516 output transformer
• 11-step attack time switch
• 11-step release time switch
• 4 fixed ratios
• 31-step input/threshold control
• 31-step output/makeup gain control
• Detented controls for accurate recall
• Patented Thrust circuit for frequency-dependent sidechain control
• D-S feature provides high-frequency-dependent sidechain control for de-essing
• Link switch for stereo operation
• 10-segment LED gain reduction meters
• LED peak indicator
• Classic analog VU output meters 
• In/Out switch; hard-wired relay bypass
• XLR and 1/4-inch TRS input and output connections
• Internal power supply, 115/230VAC selectable

Tech Specs

• Type:Tube Compressor 
• Number of Channels:2 
• Controls:Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release 
• Ratio:2:1 to 20:1 
• Tubes:12AT7WC, 12BH7 
• Rack Spaces:2U 
• Height:3.5" 
• Depth:12" 
• Width:19" 
• Weight:14 lbs. 
• Manufacturer Part Number:T25