Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
3.5 (7)
$499.00
Reverb
4.0 (3)
$17.00 New
$625.86 Used
Thomann
5.0 (8)
$777.00
Vintage King
4.8 (12)
$499.00

Average Price: $486

Standard/Professional

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox, a compact powerhouse designed for the modern recording artist and producer. Its versatility shines through with eight slots for 500 Series modules, making it a perfect canvas for crafting your unique sound. The external power supply ensures your setup remains clean and clutter-free, while the DB25 connectors offer seamless integration with contemporary interfaces and patch bays. Whether you're keeping it mobile or anchoring it in your studio with an optional rack kit, the API 500-8B is your go-to for reliable and creative signal processing.

Key Features:

  • Eight slots for 500 Series modules
  • External power supply for a streamlined setup
  • DB25 connectors for easy integration with modern gear
  • Each slot provides up to 250mA of current, accommodating all VPR-approved modules
  • Optional rack kit available for permanent studio installation

Product specs

Number of Slots 8
Inputs 1 x DB-25
Phantom Power Yes
Outputs 1 x DB-25
Additional Features Channel Linking
Module Power 250mA per slot
Power Supply 5-pin DIN power supply (included)

FAQs

How many modules can the API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox accommodate?

The API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox can accommodate up to 8 modules, providing ample space for a variety of API 500 Series or VPR-approved modules.

What type of connectivity does the API 500-8B Lunchbox offer?

The API 500-8B Lunchbox features DB25 connectivity on the rear panel, allowing for streamlined and reliable audio connections for all installed modules.

Does the API 500-8B Lunchbox provide phantom power?

Yes, the API 500-8B Lunchbox includes a built-in +48V phantom power supply, ideal for powering condenser microphones when using compatible preamp modules.

Is the API 500-8B Lunchbox suitable for remote recording?

Yes, the API 500-8B Lunchbox is designed for portability with features like a rugged steel chassis, rubber feet, and a carrying handle, making it well-suited for remote recording sessions.

Can the API 500-8B Lunchbox be rack-mounted?

Yes, the API 500-8B Lunchbox can be rack-mounted using optional rack ears, which are sold separately, allowing for versatile setup options in studio environments.

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Cryptic Mask Guitar

API Lunchbox 6 VS 8 (Differences)

Video thumbnail for API Lunchbox 6 VS 8 (Differences) by Cryptic Mask Guitar

API Lunchbox 6 VS 8 (Differences)

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Video thumbnail for API-500-System: Lunchboxen im Vergleich! - Workshop/Tutorial (The Soundphile) by The Soundphile

API-500-System: Lunchboxen im Vergleich! - Workshop/Tutorial (The Soundphile)

The Soundphile

The Soundphile

Reviews

PROS

  • High-quality build and reliable performance

  • 8 slots with 250mA per slot for ample power

  • DB25 connectivity simplifies setup

  • Affordable without sacrificing quality

  • Attractive design, especially with optional rack ears

  • Maintains strong resale value

CONS

  • Rack ears installation requires disassembly

  • Slightly higher price point compared to some alternatives

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox.

Comparisons

  • The CAPI VP28 is frequently preferred over the API 512c for better performance at a lower cost, with notable tonal superiority reported by several users.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users experienced issues with API 512c preamps lacking output attenuators, leading to converter peaking when the preamps are pushed for optimal sound.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner reported dissatisfaction with API's tech support, noting slow response and unhelpful troubleshooting, resolved only after contacting an external expert.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the portability of the API 500-8B, especially for engineers working across multiple studios, as it allows them to easily transport additional preamps.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The Radial Engineering modules and Standard Audio Level-Or are recommended as budget-friendly, versatile additions for enhancing the modular setup.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The A-Designs EM-PEQ, a Pultec-style EQ in a 500 format, is praised for its reasonable price and high quality, complementing API modules well.

    Source
  • The API 500-8B is praised for its ability to house up to 10 channels in just 3U of rack space, making it a compact solution for studio setups.

    Source
  • The Radial Workhorse 8 space rack is favored for its simultaneous XLR, TRS, and DB25 inputs and outputs, enabling parallel processing without hassle.

    Source
  • DB25 connectors are recommended for schools or studios, offering simple setup and teardown, with the patchbay facilitating easy integration into existing systems.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Users planning to integrate with UAD Apollo devices should be prepared for XLR to TRS connections from the Lunchbox to the interface.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users have encountered issues with Lindell racks, noting compatibility problems with modules not fitting properly.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Noah "40" Shebib uses API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox

Noah "40" Shebib

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

The API lunchbox 8 slot is shown in this post by Noah 40 Shebib

See how Nick Hook uses API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox

Nick Hook

Music Producer

Cubic Zirconia

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see the API 500-8B @ the 3:00 minute mark. Can't quite make out what 500 series pieces he's got in there so if someone does please do let me know.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use API 500-8B 500 Series Lunchbox, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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