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The McDSP APB-16 Analog Processing Box is a 16-channel, Thunderbolt 2 and 3 compatible programmable analogue processing system featuring 32-bit digital-to-analogue and analogue-to-digital converters, multiple analogue saturation stages, and comprehensive plug-in control via AAX, AU, or VST3 formats.
The APB-16 delivers the sonic character of high-end analogue circuitry with the flexibility and integration of a modern digital workflow. Each of its 16 channels offers true analogue signal processing, controlled entirely by software plug-ins that run in popular DAWs such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and others. Unlike digital emulations, the APB-16 processes audio through genuine analogue circuits, with plug-in automation at the sample level and full recall of presets and session states. Engineers can achieve warm, harmonically rich analogue tone without sacrificing speed, precision, or convenience.
At the core of the APB-16 lies a selection of finely tuned analogue saturation and dynamics circuits, driven by a high-resolution 32-bit conversion stage that preserves signal integrity throughout the processing chain. The APB platform allows these circuits to operate under the direction of the host DAW, with settings transmitted over Thunderbolt and executed in the analogue domain. Every adjustment—whether level, ratio, threshold, or tone—is enacted in real time with exacting accuracy. Session settings and presets save and recall instantly, allowing seamless transitions between projects.
The McDSP APB-16 ships with a suite of proprietary plug-ins that control the hardware’s analogue circuitry directly from your DAW. These plug-ins perform real analogue processing while offering the convenience of digital workflows.
C673-A – A dynamics processor that launched McDSP’s programmable analogue platform, combining compression with a custom saturation circuit for rich harmonic character.
El Moo – An all-analogue variable limiter featuring a flexible saturation stage for musical limiting with tonal warmth.
MooTube – A tube-style compressor delivering smooth, vintage-style dynamics control through McDSP’s flagship tube compression algorithm.
ChickenHead – A bold and aggressive compressor that uses the most intense saturation circuit available on the APB hardware, designed for character-driven processing.
L-18 Limiter – A transparent analogue limiter with a Colour control for subtle tonal shaping, ideal for final stage dynamics control.
C-18 Compressor – A clean, precision-focused analogue compressor with programme-dependent attack and release times, offering detailed dynamics shaping without coloration.
By design, the APB-16 eliminates the need to choose between sonic quality and workflow efficiency. Its 32-bit converters provide detailed audio fidelity, while Thunderbolt connectivity ensures ultra-low latency. Each plug-in acts like a native processor in the DAW, offering sample-accurate automation and total recall—functions previously impossible with traditional analogue gear.
An iLok licence enables the included plug-in bundle, which requires no additional purchase or activation fees and further plug-ins as they're released.
The APB plug-ins combine audio and control signals before routing them to the APB-16 hardware. Upon receiving the signal via Thunderbolt, the unit processes the audio using the analogue circuitry dictated by the control parameters. The processed signal returns digitally to the plug-in’s output, appearing in the DAW session as if it were an in-the-box effect. This architecture merges hardware fidelity with digital simplicity, reducing complexity while expanding creative possibilities.
Ideal for professional production, mixing, and mastering setups, the APB-16 integrates analogue warmth with digital speed in a way no other unit does. McDSP’s pioneering approach to programmable analogue hardware, supported by consistent software updates and robust component design, positions the APB-16 as a future-proof investment for studios demanding uncompromised audio quality and full DAW integration.
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