McDSP APB-16

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Analogue Processing Box

16-channel analogue processor with plug-in control
Provides mixer simulation, hybrid EQ, and nine different analogue dynamic processors for mixing and mastering
TAPE: Analogue emulation of magnetic tape machines with four-stage processing, selectable tape type and characteristics of the playback head as well as adjustable tape compression
BOB: Bass optimisation with controlled compression of the low frequencies
KD-1 Kinetic Drive: Analogue saturation with three circuit variants, kinetics control and frequency-specific application
Royal Mu: Two-channel compressor/limiter with MS mode and sidechain, including surround variant
Royal Q: Hybrid equaliser with 2 x 4 bands, analogue output stage and MS mode
MC-3: Multi-band compressor with three bands
Moo X: Hybrid mixing console with up to 48 mono or stereo channels, channel EQ, analogue compressor and saturation, and a master section with stereo analogue compressor and saturation
C673-A: Dynamic range compressor with a sound orientated on the Fairchild 670
EL MOO: Tube limiter with analogue saturation
MOO TUBE: Compressor with a discreet character for a wide range of applications
ChickenHead: Aggressive compressor with its own sound character
L-18: Transparent limiter for all tasks and surround support up to 7.1.2 in Avid Pro Tools Ultimate (not for AU, VST3)
C-18: Universal compressor with a neutral sound
32-bit converter
Supported sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz
Frequency response: 10 - 20,000 Hz +/-0.005 dB
Signal-to-noise ratio: 113 dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: 0.02%
Supported DAWs: Ableton Live 11 min, Avid Pro Tools 12 min, Apple Logic Pro X 10.4 min, Steinberg Cubase / Nuendo 10.x min, Universal Audio LUNA
Dimensions: 483 x 44 x 406 mm

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

3-Year Thomann Warranty

System Requirements

Shipping Format: Box without Data Storage
License validity: perpetual
Copy Protection: iLok 2 / iLok 3 (401447) / iLok Cloud
Simultaneous Activations: 1
Windows: not supported
Mac OS (64 Bit): from 10.13
CPU min.: Apple Silicon, Intel Core
add. System requirements: Internet Connection for Installation and Activation, free Thunderbolt 2,3 or 4 Connector, Word-Clock Connection from Audiointerface, iLok License Manager

Supported Formats

AAX native 64-Bit
AU 64-Bit
VST3 64-Bit

Available since November 2019
Item number 472694
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
Compressor Yes
Gate Yes
Peak Limiter Yes
2-Channel Unit No
Attack/Release Adjustable Yes

€6,499

All prices incl. VAT

Sales Rank

in Compressors, Gates and De-essers

Information on the disposal of old devices

The 1U analogue outboard rack

The McDSP APB-16 blends true analogue signal processing with plug-in control across up to 16 audio channels, providing exceptional analogue sound alongside seamless DAW integration. Signals flow to and from the DAW through high-quality 32-bit converters, all routed via a single Thunderbolt connection – eliminating the complex cabling typical of traditional outboard gear. Designed to adapt to the user's workflow, the APB-16 features channel strips, dynamic processing, and saturation for up to 16 tracks, doubling the power of its smaller sibling, the APB-8. Included is a growing collection of versatile, high-impact plug-ins, many inspired by classic vintage processors, with a strong emphasis on compression and saturation.

Analogue sound, digital control

The McDSP APB-16 combines high-quality 32-bit converters with rich analogue circuitry, transformed into a suite of powerful analogue processors through plug-ins compatible with VST3, AU, and AAX. Once installed, the hardware seamlessly integrates into the rack, indeed it virtually disappears, requiring no direct interaction – it's controlled entirely through plug-ins. Users simply assign the desired functions, which appear in the DAW just like familiar DSP-based plug-ins. From a robust mixer simulation to nine distinct dynamics processors designed for both mixing and mastering, the APB-16 provides flexible, multi-instance use, covering a broad sonic palette and truly excelling in areas where digital emulations still fall short.

Front of the McDSP APB-16 analogue processing box

Perfect professional workhorse

McDSP has attracted an impressive roster of high-profile users – understandably so, given that the APB system is perfectly suited to busy professionals who, whether by choice or necessity, work "in-the-box" yet still crave the warmth and authenticity of true analogue sound. With the APB-16, uncompromising audio quality, streamlined workflows, and intuitive operation come together effortlessly, eliminating the usual trade-offs. While this level of sophistication comes at a cost, the APB-16 quickly proves its value when compared to the expense of the equivalent standalone gear. Designed to handle up to 16 tracks, the APB-16 is widely regarded as a powerhouse in the professional world and is often expanded into cascading systems with up to 64 tracks, delivering immense processing capabilities.

Rear of the McDSP APB-16 analogue processing box

About McDSP

Founded in 1998 in Silicon Valley, California, McDSP has established itself as a leader in professional audio processing. The company, spearheaded by Colin McDowell, initially gained recognition for its range of innovative plug-ins, some of which have been integrated into popular DAWs. In 2019, McDowell broke new ground with the launch of the Analog Processing Box (APB), a fully programmable multi-channel analogue processor – the first of its kind globally. The APB system remains unparalleled and has become a staple in numerous high-profile mixing and mastering studios, particularly in the United States.

A big brother with 16 tracks

Compared to its smaller sibling, the APB-8, the 16-track APB-16 delivers twice the processing power, allowing double the number of plug-ins and audio tracks to run simultaneously – and with the option to cascade multiple units, even more performance is possible. This flexibility makes it easy to route an entire, even highly complex, mix through the APB-16, all without the usual drawbacks of traditional outboard gear – no complicated cabling, no frustrating gain staging, and total recall at the user's fingertips. The result is a crisp, modern analogue sound of the highest quality, seamlessly integrated into a computer-based setup. Aside from a Mac, an audio interface, and a compatible DAW, no additional hardware is needed to process up to 16 tracks in true analogue quality – but all "in the box".

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