New pedal by API. Analog Gain, Compression & EQ in one pedal

[bgmww]

API is pleased to announce its groundbreaking TranZformer series, designed to easily and affordably bring the legendary analog sound of API to your guitar and bass.

The TranZformer series currently includes the GT Guitar Pedal and LX Bass Pedal, both of which incorporate API's traditional analog signal path to provide gain control, compression and equalization in one box. Both units feature phase invert switches on each output, ground lift, clip indicator and transformer output. The TranZformer GT and LX both combine an API 525 feedback-type compressor with a 3 band equalizer, optimized for guitar and bass respectively. Like all API products, the TranZformer series is built to API's exacting standards and remains true to the design philosophy that has made API the leader in professional analog recording gear for nearly 50 years.

The TranZformer LX and GT each have an MSRP of $579. More information is available at

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[boomertech]

Looks very interesting. The comp is simple with two knobs which is attractive to many. Transformer output is cool too. I wish the specs would give a lot more info.

It would be a good comp to compare to the Cali76 TX because both are approx $500 with transformer output. API has been around since the 60's like the 1176 that the Cali76 is based on. I think it would be one of the better side-by-sides that we could see.

BTW... Sweetwater has better pics so that you can see the knob functions and side switches.

-Frank

 

[bassbrad]

Hmmmm, might have to strongly consider this.

 

[boomertech]

Found more specs on the specs page:

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-Frank

 

[bongomania]

Noted.

 

[M Sterling]

Interesting eq points. I would really like to hear this!

Edit- considering picking one up to a/b with my Cali CB>Noble set up.

 

[boomertech]

Noted.

Hey Cyrus, do you still have a Cali76 TX?

-Frank

 

[boomertech]

The more I read about the API 525 (the compressor part of this pedal), the more it looks like it will be in the same company as the 1176. Here is a review of the API 525 from Attack magazine article "Top 20 Best Compressors ever made":

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"Favoured on guitars, vocals, drums and bass, it has a vaguely 1176-esque sound, imparting obvious warmth and weight, with signals leaving it richer and thicker."

-Frank

 

[bongomania]

Hey Cyrus, do you still have a Cali76 TX?

-Frank

Yes I do--and it's a funny thing, I was just about to list it for sale, but now I can't until I get one of these API's.

 

[DirtyDuke]

I Might grab one to check it out

 

[matt thompson]

Mine will be here tmrw

 

[matt thompson]

Also got a Cali 76 for comparison

 

[jazzercountry]

Can't wait to hear what you think!

 

[matt thompson]

Got gigs all this week so Ill be able to put it thru it paces! Just curious if you guys think this could drive a GK MBP series cab? I read a post that the MBP's wanted a true balanced +10db signal..

Here are the specs on the API: [Invalid or Expired Link Removed]

 

[J.Wolf]

sub'd. Interested in the Cali vs the API!

 

[bongomania]

Fwiw I emailed them to ask for a loaner but I haven't heard back yet.

 

[boomertech]

Fwiw I emailed them to ask for a loaner but I haven't heard back yet.

Do you have a new review on your comp page? I see the page was updated Oct 7, but I didn't see anything new in your most recent page.

-Frank

 

[bongomania]

Oh I just added the two "coming soon" items, not the reviews themselves yet.

 

[jazzercountry]

So, @mattyiop, what's the verdict?

 

[matt thompson]

So, @mattyiop, what's the verdict?

I ended up sending the API back. I preferred the Cali comp - I think the API's comp is more neutral sounding, but I dig the color that the Cali has. The EQ section was super clean and precise, but I found myself wondering what my real world applications would be for it..I think for the right person it would be killer