Featuring the same level of craftsmanship found throughout API's entire product line, the MC531 offers a stand-alone version of the monitoring functionality built into the center section of API's legendary analog consoles. Specifically designed to include fully-featured monitor control for current studio DAW workflows, the MC531 can integrate seamlessly into any audio production environment "where functionality, ease of use and an accurate reference of each audio source is required," the company says.
"In our ongoing mission to provide audio professionals with products suited to their evolving workflow, the company decided that a monitor controller would be a natural next step in product design," comments API's Director of Engineering Todd Humora. "We've certainly had many requests for a unit like this over the years. The MC531 provides users with the exact same circuitry they would find in an API console, plus a few extra features that many people will find useful."
Drawing inspiration from the monitor control modules of all API consoles, the MC531 features a Main and two Alternate stereo outputs, the latter having individual trims for speaker level matching. Programmable subwoofer integration allows the user to link the Sub with the Main and/or either of the Alternate outputs. With a total of seven selectable stereo input sources (three analog line-level inputs, AES, USB, plus 3.5 mm and Bluetooth), the MC531 can meet the monitoring needs of almost any studio setup. Two independent Headphone outputs and a built-in Talkback mic complement the feature set. Of course, the classic API 41-detent Control Room Knob is right at the user fingertips.
"API has always strived to engineer products that the audio community needs and wants," says API President Larry Droppa. "In the case of the MC531, we're offering a truly professional monitoring solution that's equally at home in a commercial studio as it is in a smaller, personal creative space. Anyone familiar with an API console will immediately recognize the layout, functionality and the tradition that's built into this incredible sounding monitor controller."
The MC531 chassis can be rackmounted or recessed in studio furniture and displays a variety of controls, 18 segment stereo LED meter, and a built-in Talkback Mic with gain control and activation button. The input section features 3 stereo balanced line level analog audio inputs, a digital audio input, selectable between AES3 or USB, 3.5mm input on the front and rear panel, and there's even Bluetooth connectivity for modern convenience (no details on what codecs are supported, even in the manual - so assume SBC only) using an external antenna on the back panel. All 5 inputs are buffered with the famous API 2510 Op Amp.
The outputs include 3 stereo balanced line level outputs with individually adjustable trim levels, mono balanced line level output for the subwoofer with adjustable trim level, and two stereo headphone outputs. All stereo outputs include full mute, mono, and DIM controls. And clearly targeting professional environments, API didn't forget to add a balanced unity level meter output for connecting to an external meter system. The chassis uses an external power supply, which is connected with one of those old-fashioned DIN connectors - maybe to match the old USB Type B connector (the news about USB-C apparently have not reached API).
The Jessup, Maryland-based company is now assembling and shipping these new controllers (MSRP: $2,495). Like all API products, the MC531 features API's industry-exclusive Five Year Warranty.
www.apiaudio.com
