API 560

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API 560 (111) 4.77
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Based on the 1967 classic, the API 560 10-Band graphic equalizer features precision filtering and high headroom, ideal for signal enhancement and room tuning. The API 560’s curve shaping potential is unmatched, while API’s unique “Proportional Q” design intuitively widens the filter bandwidth at lower boost/cut levels and narrows it at higher settings. And since boost and cut characteristics are identical, previous actions can be easily undone. For precision equalization with unmatched versatility, turn to the EQ heard on top recordings for decades: the API 560.

Modeled vintage EQ plugin
Developed in association with API
Familiar one octave centers
12 dB of boost/cut per band
“Proportional Q” narrows filter Q at extremes
Additional resolution in the critical ±4 dB region
Clip level > +28 dBu

User Guide

Feb 14, 2019

API 550 or API 560? The Differences Explained

They all have “that API sound,” but it’s important to choose the right tool for the job. We’ve mapped out the differences between these classic designs so you can make musical decisions about when to use which EQ.

Nov 02, 2017

Vintage EQ Plugin Guide

Get tips on how to choose and use different EQ plugins modeled on vintage hardware equalizers, and find out why engineers are still using these tried-and-true EQs after decades of recording technology innovation.

Jun 01, 2008

Tony Maserati on Mixing Jason Mraz

The Grammy®-winning producer/mixing engineer discusses his work on We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things by Jason Mraz, and shares the API Collection settings he used on the album, available as downloadable presets.

Mark Ronson Producer, DJ, Recording Artist

Amy Winehouse, Jay-Z, Adele, Bruno Mars

“The API plugins are great for getting an analog sensibility. And the CLA-3A makes everything a little tougher and the mix a little more centered – that’s what I used on ‘Uptown Funk.’”

Tony Maserati Producer & Mixing Engineer

Beyoncé, Selena Gomez, Robin Thicke, Nick Jonas

“I’ve thrown the API plugins on every track — they sound great, very similar to the way I remember the original API hardware sound.”

Thom Russo Producer / Engineer

Michael Jackson, Maná, Tom Morello

“The API plugins are a dream come true—so silky and punchy. They put my EQ heart at ease. ”

Alan Branch Producer, Engineer, Writer, Musician

Nine Inch Nails, Sinéad O’Connor, Depeche Mode, Blur

“I use the API EQs regularly. The effect they have on drums, vocals, guitars, and the stereo bus mix is an instant pleasure.”

Javier Valverde Recording Engineer, Mixing Engineer

T-Pain, Timbaland, Lil Wayne, Pitbull

“The API 560 EQ variable gain allows me to quickly carve out or boost frequencies on pianos and guitars without interrupting the workflow.”

Gil Norton Producer

Foo Fighters, Pixies, Stornoway

“I’m amazed at how accurate the API Collection plugins are.”

Todd Parker Recording & Mixing Engineer

Norah Jones, Weezer, AFI

“There’s a reason the original hardware is a classic, and Waves got it spot-on with their API plugins.”

Guy Sigsworth Producer

Björk, Madonna, Seal

“The key reason I reach for my API plugins is because they’re ‘vibey.’ This is largely down to the way Waves have modeled the coloration of the original circuitry.”

Alen Konakoğlu Producer, Mixing Engineer, Songwriter, Multi-Instrumentalist

Virgil Donati, Victor Wooten, Scott Handerson, Natalia Oreiro

“As a drummer, the API EQ models sounds great on drums – especially on kick, snare and overheads. When mixing heavy punchy rock drums, they deliver the real sonic character of the hardware.”

Chris "BRX" Apfalter FOH Engineer

Kruder & Dorfmeister, Tosca

“I use the API plugins as master plugins on the entire mix in order to make it crispier and get more punch.”

Brad Madix FOH Engineer

Rush, Jack White, Shania Twain

“The API EQs are great for tonal shaping, and you don’t have to be shy about cranking the knobs around. Even with crazy boosts and cuts, they still sound natural. I love them on bass, but I use them on all sorts of things.”