Analog Processing Box | McDSP APB-16 Review

The McDSP APB-16 is like a full collection of analog hardware at your fingertips. Use plugins in your DAW to control the parameters of 100% analog EQ, Compression, Saturation, Limiting, and Multiband. These plugins are not analog emulations! They control real analog circutry inside the APB using the benefits of modern in the box workflows combined with analog sound quality.

Learn how to easily connect your APB-16 and install the VST AU and AAX plugins for any DAW. Hear mixing and mastering demos using APB plugins like KD1, Chicken Head, Moo Tube, Royal Q, and more.

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0:00 - 2:46 APB-16 Intro
2:47 - 5:12 Analog Limiter
5:13 - 8:57 Drum Saturation
8:58 - 10:48 Guitar EQ
10:49 - 12:56 Sidechain Compression
12:57 - 14:30 Vocal Compression
14:31 - 17:19 Automation
17:20 - 19:06 Mastering
19:07 - 20:41 APB-16 Overview

[GlacierSound]

I have one of these bad boys in my studio in Atlanta, they are an absolute dream and I love the moo tube!

[joesalyers]

Colin Mcdowell has stated himself that the APB EQs are Digital. from tape op, When most folks use outboard analog EQ they are looking for that EQ tone (with) a saturation component to the sound. By leveraging a digital EQ design that is also calibrated/complimentary to a saturation circuit setup in the APB-16, I think we can deliver some cool hybrid EQs to folks.

[ndavies]

When initially got this unit a few months ago, I was really skeptical but when I fired it up, I got the same feeling I get when I turn knobs and switches. Definitely a great unit, a bit pricey though

[McDSPTV]

Love the video, Reid! We're so glad you're enjoying the APB 😁

[djdanger]

That saturator is incredible, that alone make me want this unit.
I can't believe you didn't use the Moo Mixer that thing is no joke! Every channel has a comp and saturator its the sauce.

[dspoet]

I know this is off topic but did you get rid of the CL1B? I noticed you have a LA2A and 1176 in the rack.

What mic you use to record these vocals with?

[Disisions]

Finally, can’t wait till UA makes its own version.

[bigbeastmusicjamaica]

This video makes me want one now; he explains it perfectly, awesome video.

[digitaldiezel]

You’re so rich now bro…I can’t relate to these products! Very nice!

[mauh_kat]

Clicked so fast and I don't even have hardware.

[elvisjaggerabduljabbar]

How could I ask a better question in the google search engine to obtain a more accurate search or what websites do you recommend to find a slightly more technical and specialized review on a specific producer or one of his tracks?

[markszymanski]

I still like the idea of this but for the price, I'd still much rather have several choice pieces of hardware. Can fill up a lunchbox with some nice stuff... Dealing with IO isnt a big deal to me, but I can see the convenience in this for sure. They do need to update their designs though... screaming 2005

[sancessounds]

I really hate when plugins don't have output level control. Seriously such a simple and crucial control.

[MASS_Studios]

I just watched Chris mixing Nickleback on URM academy with one Waves SSL channel plugin and thats it. It sound awesome. He didnt used this overiced box. Why should I?

[Chaz_r]

Interesting, expensive but definitely interesting. Do these plugins run native on your computer or is there processing on the unit?

[hughharsher]

plugins have become so good it's unreal. Sold all my analog gear and guitar amps. Definitely don't see a future in analog hardware anymore - especially given the price point. The roughly 5% aren't worth it imo. Once I got into Universal Audio and Line 6 Helix... never going back :)

[riktascale]

Appreciate all your videos. Question....do you have an independent convertor used for your production and which one if any, or do you use your apollos only?

[djpioneer]

how does the audio get into the box if there aren't any analogue I&Os?

[djchamilaprabath]

Wow, you can't get the sound of analog gear from vst, sir, you have to use an analog one to get that quality, right?

[Yawsounds]

Yo Ried! You know if this works with studio one?