Waves API Collection

API Collection

Shape your tone with the musicality of API compression and EQ

The Musical Sound of API Dynamics and EQ

Half a century ago, API blazed a new trail in audio processing. The API 550A and 550B EQs prioritized musicality and transparency, while the API 560 elevated the graphic EQ to new tone-shaping heights. Pure and sweet, these EQs set new design standards.

But EQ wasn’t all : the API 2500 Compressor’s versatile tone and punch remain highly coveted. API was ahead of its time—and today, the API Collection is here for a new generation of producers.

Refinement, Transparency, Accuracy

API 2500: Vintage to Modern Tones

The original API 2500 Compressor bent the rules, with two compression topologies—you could choose “Feed Back” compression for the smooth, vintage, leveling-amp sound, or “Feed Forward” compression for a snappy, modern response. The API 2500 plugins offer both.

Secret-Weapon Compression for Hip Hop and Club Sounds

It’s no wonder the 2500 has been embraced by cutting-edge mix engineers—its Thrust option is the key to killer kicks and booming bass. Nothing else can decrease low-frequency pumping, while compressing the highs so well.

API 550: Two EQs, Two Philosophies

The 550A and 550B EQs shared the same exacting standards and sound quality, but targeted different needs. The API Collection includes the 550A’s more general design, and the 550B’s specific, problem-solving approach.

The High-End Studio EQs of the 60s

Known for its uncanny ability to solve EQ problems or add character, the pioneering proportional-Q curve made the 550A and 550B favorites for high-end studios that demanded musicality with transparency and accuracy.

API 560: Graphic EQ, Done Better

The 560 Graphic EQ had the traditional graphic interface to make broad equalization changes, but combined it with proportional-Q filters for API’s natural, uncolored sound quality. To this day, the 560 remains a studio and live stalwart.

Excellent Extras

The API Collection features presets from top producers, mixers and mastering engineers like Steve Lillywhite, Tony Maserati, Greg Wells, and Drew Lavyne, as well as the option to switch in the subtle harmonic distortion and hiss of the original hardware.

API 2500

In studios around the world, the API 2500 has earned a reputation for always being able to deliver the right solution for virtually any compression need. Based on precise, accurate VCA-type technology, the API 2500 is all about choice—including compressor topologies, punch, and tone.

A modern classic, the API 2500 has now been discovered by a new generation of modern producers in hip hop, pop/R&B, dance, and rock, who treasure the punchy vibe that brings drums and grooves to life.

API 550

The API 550 introduced visionary EQ curves. Q varies with gain, so boosting adds a more focused musical quality—while reducing gain provides natural, subtle-to-steep tone shaping. Developed in close collaboration with API, the 550A/B are loving re-creations of these late-60s legends.

Expertly selected frequencies lift instruments up, or place them further back—just as easily as they can sweetly shape a mix’s contour. For individual tracks, buses, or full masters, the 550 defines musical transparency.

API 560

API 560’s proportional-Q filter topology is known for its smooth, forgiving sound. For mic overheads, pianos, guitars, and other complex sound sources that need clear, transparent, well-defined tone-shaping, the 560 makes EQing fast and easy.

Created in association with API, this high-end equalizer is all about using a traditional graphic interface to make broad equalization changes—all while sounding natural and musical.