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Average Price: $2,168

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$599

$2000+

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Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "API Select T12 Tube Microphone Preamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Designed for enthusiasts of rich, analog warmth, the API Select T12 Tube Microphone Preamp offers a captivating blend of vintage charm and modern precision. This all-tube, Class-A preamp is meticulously crafted to provide the legendary API sound with a twist of tube-driven warmth. At its core, the T12 employs API's proprietary AP2516 input transformer and a custom API output transformer, ensuring an unparalleled audio fidelity and dynamism. Whether you're recording punchy drums or lush vocals, this preamp promises a vibrant, larger-than-life sound that captures every nuance.

The T12’s dual-channel design makes it ideal for diverse production scenarios, including stereo applications. With up to 70dB of gain available, it effortlessly powers passive ribbon mics on quiet sources, delivering pristine clarity and depth. The intuitive controls, such as variable microphone input impedance and a highpass filter with three fixed frequencies, give you immense tone-shaping capability, allowing you to tailor the sound to your exact needs. Detented controls ensure accurate recall and channel matching, making it a reliable tool for any studio session.

Not just about performance, the T12 also stands out with its classic analog VU meters and glowing tube vent windows, merging aesthetics with functionality. Whether you're a seasoned pro or an aspiring engineer, the API Select T12 promises to elevate your recordings with its unique sonic palette.

Key Features:

  • All-tube, Class-A microphone preamp
  • Gain range: 0dB to +70dB
  • Proprietary AP2516 input transformer
  • 12AT7WC preamp and 12BH7 output dual-triode vacuum tubes
  • Custom API output transformer
  • Variable microphone input impedance
  • Switchable 48V phantom power
  • High-impedance, unbalanced 1/4-inch instrument inputs
  • Mic/hi-Z input switches
  • 20dB input pads
  • 11-step detented preamp gain controls
  • Highpass filters with 3 fixed frequencies
  • 11-step detented output trims with 0.5dB steps
  • LED peak indicators
  • Classic analog VU output meters
  • XLR and 1/4-inch TRS input and output connections
  • Internal power supply, 115/230VAC selectable

Product specs

Preamp Type Tube
Number of Channels 2
Phantom Power Yes
Pads -20dB
Polarity Switch Yes
EQ Low Cut (60Hz, 120Hz, 240Hz)
Tubes 12AT7WC, 12BH7
Analog Inputs 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" TRS, 2 x 1/4" TS (Hi-Z)
Analog Outputs 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" TRS
Frequency Response 20Hz-30kHz
Rack Spaces 2U
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 3.5"
Depth 12"
Width 19"
Weight 14 lbs.

FAQs

What type of tubes does the API Select T12 use?

The API Select T12 uses 12AT7WC and 12BH7 dual-triode vacuum tubes, which contribute to its warm, classic tube sound.

Does the API Select T12 provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the API Select T12 offers switchable 48-volt phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones.

What are the input and output options available on the API Select T12?

The API Select T12 features 2 XLR and 2 1/4" TRS inputs, along with 2 XLR and 2 1/4" TRS outputs, providing versatile connectivity for various studio setups.

How does the low-cut filter on the API Select T12 work?

The API Select T12 has a low-cut filter with three fixed frequencies (60Hz, 120Hz, 240Hz) to help manage low-frequency noise in recordings.

Is the API Select T12 suitable for both microphone and instrument inputs?

Yes, the API Select T12 has a high-impedance, unbalanced 1/4" instrument input and a MIC/HI-Z input switch, making it versatile for both microphone and instrument use.

Vintage King

Vintage King

Tracking & Mixing With The API Select T12 Dual-Channel Mic Pre & T25 Dual-Channel Compressor

Video thumbnail for Tracking & Mixing With The API Select T12 Dual-Channel Mic Pre & T25 Dual-Channel Compressor by Vintage King

Tracking & Mixing With The API Select T12 Dual-Channel Mic Pre & T25 Dual-Channel Compressor

Vintage King

Vintage King

Video thumbnail for API Select Series T25 Tube Compressor and T12 Tube Microphone Preamp Overview by Sweetwater

API Select Series T25 Tube Compressor and T12 Tube Microphone Preamp Overview

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for API Select T12 Demo & Review by Alec Brits

API Select T12 Demo & Review

Alec Brits

Alec Brits

Video thumbnail for Tube Mic Pre from API - FINALLY!!! by Recording Studio Rockstars

Tube Mic Pre from API - FINALLY!!!

Recording Studio Rockstars

Recording Studio Rockstars

Reviews

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