Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $899

Standard/Professional

$599

$2000+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The CAPI Heider FD312 H2 is a preamp that pays homage to the legendary Wally Heider Recording Studio, combining vintage charm with modern precision. Crafted with attention to detail, this preamp incorporates a custom CAPI version of the RE-0887 input transformer, delivering a unique tonal quality reminiscent of the classic Heider sound. The result is a rich, three-dimensional sonic character that brings your recordings to life with buttery smooth mids.

A highlight of the FD312 H2 is its dual-stage gain structure. The stepped fader and active booster stage, inspired by '70s vintage API consoles, provide flexibility and creative tonal possibilities. You can sculpt your sound with precision, whether you're looking for subtle harmonic enhancement or a powerful, punchy output. The inclusion of potted CA-0252 discrete opamps ensures that you're getting the closest experience to the revered early '70s Studio Systems opamps.

CAPI's design philosophy shines through in the details, such as the exclusive Litz wire 2503 output transformers that add character and depth to your signal. The 80Hz high-pass filter, replacing the impedance load switch on the front panel, is a user-friendly addition that enhances usability without sacrificing functionality. With its hand-assembled build and meticulous testing in Nashville, Tennessee, the FD312 H2 is a testament to quality and craftsmanship.

Key Features:

  • Custom CAPI version of the RE-0887 input transformer
  • Dual-stage gain structure with stepped fader and active booster stage
  • Potted CA-0252 discrete opamps
  • Exclusive Litz wire 2503 output transformers
  • Stepped PREAMP GAIN: +25dB to +60dB in MIC mode, -14dB to +21dB in LINE mode
  • 80Hz high-pass filter and selectable input impedance settings
  • Physically and electronically fully VPR compliant with a current draw of less than 101mA per rail

Reviews

Critic Reviews

Classic Audio Products of Illinois: Heider FD312 500-series mic/line preamp | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Heider FD312 preamp delivers an impressive blend of vintage warmth and modern clarity, thanks to its meticulous design and quality components. With a maximum gain of 72 dB, it excels in both mic and line applications, imparting a rich, smooth tone that enhances vocals and instruments alike. Its build quality is top-notch, outshining many competitors in the 500-series realm. However, the hefty price tag of $750 might deter budget-conscious musicians. While it shines in studio settings, some may find it less essential for casual use. Overall, the FD312 is a fantastic choice for those seeking that iconic API sound with a contemporary twist, provided they’re willing to invest.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

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

More CAPI Heider Preamps

Avalon VT-737SP

$2,250.00 - $4,168.00

# 1

Rank

Matthew Bellamy Skrillex Ed Sheeran
106 artists using
API 512c

$835.57 - $968.00

# 2

Rank

Kevin Parker Jack White Ray Toro
33 artists using
AMS Neve 1073

$3,206.10 - $4,115.00

# 4

Rank

Billie Joe Armstrong Kevin Parker John Mayer
86 artists using
Focusrite ISA One

$511.00 - $699.99

# 5

Rank

Mac DeMarco Lil Peep Bonobo
10 artists using
Universal Audio 4-710D

$1,750.00 - $1,999.00

# 6

Rank

Ray Toro Dijon Oneohtrix Point Never
10 artists using
AMS Neve 1073LB

$933.00 - $1,285.00

# 7

Rank

Chris Martin Lorn Manny Marroquin
14 artists using
AMS Neve 1073DPA

$1,951.00 - $2,830.00

# 8

Rank

Steven Wilson Avicii Matt Berry
12 artists using
Radial Tonebone PZ-Pre

$333.00 - $464.00

# 9

Rank

Chris Cornell James Taylor Masaru Teramae
11 artists using
Rupert Neve Designs 511

$769.00 - $849.00

# 10

Rank

Josh Dun Oliver Ackermann Bibio
5 artists using
AMS Neve 1073 SPX Preamp / EQ

$1,645.00 - $2,095.00

# 11

Rank

Geddy Lee Keshi Andy Morin
9 artists using
Warm Audio WA73-EQ

$729.00 - $899.00

# 12

Rank

George Clanton Josh Turner nothing,nowhere.
6 artists using
Focusrite ISA Two

$795.00 - $999.99

# 14

Rank

Frank Ocean Yuki Kajiura Sick Individuals
3 artists using
ART Tube MP

$45.00 - $129.99

# 17

Rank

Mac McCaughan Tobin Sprout Andre .S
5 artists using
Audient ASP880

$767.01 - $1,799.99

# 18

Rank

Tim Henson beaux Alex Rüdinger
5 artists using
Great River ME-1NV MIC PREAMP

$980.00 - $1,435.00

# 21

Rank

Andy Schichter Matt Didemus
2 artists using
Art Tube MP Project Series

$143.00 - $169.00

# 22

Rank

mndsgn James Petralli Mirrored Theory
3 artists using
ART Pro MPA II

$492.00 - $579.00

# 24

Rank

Josh Turner Ivan Julian Zac Tiessen
3 artists using
Warm Audio WA12

$230.00 - $449.00

# 25

Rank

George Clanton Jonwayne
2 artists using
Vintech Audio X73i

$1,200.00 - $1,375.00

# 26

Rank

Joe Bonamassa Kashiwabara Yuzuru Headscan
3 artists using
Warm Audio TB12 Tone Beast

$549.00 - $699.00

# 28

Rank

Mandrax Icon
1 artist using
BAE Audio 1073 MP

$1,233.00 - $1,370.00

# 29

Rank

Mk.gee Deadmau5 Travis Scott
12 artists using
API 3124+

$2,509.91

# 30

Rank

Aphex Twin Toru Kitajima Hozier
17 artists using
sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite

$68.40 - $109.00

# 31

Rank

Logan Paul
1 artist using
Triton Audio FetHead

$55.99 - $79.95

# 32

Rank

DJ Jino
1 artist using
Avalon VT-747SP

$3,866.00

# 33

Rank

Armin Van Buuren Boys Noize Diplo
13 artists using
ART Voice Channel

$441.05 - $689.99

# 36

Rank

Matuê Nico Astegiano
2 artists using
BAE Audio 1084

$1,200.00 - $3,945.00

# 37

Rank

Kevin Shields The Weeknd Justin Meldal-Johnsen
7 artists using

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides