API 1608 Mk II Recording Console

The API 1608-II 16-channel console is a compact large-format analog recording desk with the sound, feel and workflow that made API one of the defining names in American recording. It is built for studios that want real console operation, real analog routing and that unmistakable API punch, but without the footprint of a very large frame.

This standard 16-channel version is supplied without Final Touch Automation®, making it a direct, tactile and beautifully hands-on console for tracking, mixing and hybrid studio work. It gives the engineer immediate access to mic preamps, EQ, faders, routing, stereo returns and center section control, all laid out in a way that encourages fast decisions and musical results.

Each channel is equipped with a mic preamp and equalizer, giving the 1608-II its classic API front-end character right at the source. The console accepts API 500 Series equalizers, and this standard 16-channel configuration includes 12 API 550A equalizers and 4 API 560 equalizers. It is a very useful combination: the 550A for broad, musical shaping, and the 560 for more graphic-style tone control when the source asks for it.

Routing is generous for a console of this size. The 1608-II architecture includes 8 multitrack buses, 8 auxiliary buses, 1 stereo bus and 4 stereo returns on 100 mm faders, with multitrack and stereo bus assignment. The full center facilities section gives the console proper studio control, while classic analog metering keeps everything visible and immediate.

In this non-automated version, the appeal is simple: pure API analog console workflow with no screens between you and the music. It is a proper working desk for rooms that want the sound of a serious console, the flexibility of API 500 Series EQ, and a compact footprint that still feels like a real studio centerpiece.

The API 1608-II series is also available in 32 and 48 channel frame sizes, as well as 16-channel expander configurations. Versions with Final Touch Automation® are also available for studios that require motorized fader control, mix restore and automated mixing features.

Main features of the API 1608-II console series

* Analog recording console with classic API signal flow
* Available in 16, 32 and 48 input channel frame sizes
* 16-channel expander option available
* Available with or without API Final Touch Automation®
* Each channel equipped with mic preamp and equalizer
* Accepts API 500 Series equalizers
* 8 multitrack buses
* 8 auxiliary buses
* 1 stereo bus
* 4 stereo returns on 100 mm faders
* Multitrack and stereo bus assignment
* Full center section control
* Surround 5.1 center section monitoring
* Classic analog metering
* Global 0 dB fader bypass
* Comprehensive rear-panel I/O connectivity

Main features of this particular version

* Standard 16-channel API 1608-II analog console
* No Final Touch Automation®
* 16 Mic/Line Inputs with Direct Outputs
* 12 API 550A Equalizers
* 4 API 560 Equalizers
* 4 Manual Stereo Returns
* 1 Complete Center Facilities Section
* 16 Manual Faders
* 1 Manual Stereo Fader

US and EU parcels ship via UPS, ETA 1-7 working days from pickup day zero. That also applies to most locations worldwide.

All shipments are fully insured.

Bigger shipments requiring pallets or custom made crates ship to US, CA, JP, CN, AU and other outside of EU locations via DHL Air Freight, ETA is normally approx. 7-14 working days from pickup day zero.

Big shipments inside EU ship via different freight companies, recently mostly via ACE Logistics. Freight forwarders can use different courier companies for deliveries to final destinations.

Palletising and crating time can vary depending on the size of the shipment and packaging queue. We pack all our shipments with great care.

You are most welcome to pick your order up yourself from our Retrosonic Pro Audio showroom, studio and warehouse in Tallinn, Estonia.

We ship worldwide – contact us for a personal shipping quote or any other questions.

VAT (Value Added Tax) can be deducted if you have a company with a valid EU VAT number or if you're based outside of the EU. Non-EU buyers pay all and any import tax and duty as regulated by their local customs.