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An introduction to McDSP APB-8 / APB-16 Analog Processing Box, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
Each APB audio channel can be controlled by an AAX, AU, or VST3 plug-in on a wide variety of DAWs. Real analog circuits, recalled instantly with your session or a preset.
— McDSP official site
What is APB-8 / APB-16 Analog Processing Box?
The APB-8 and APB-16 are analog processing hardware from McDSP. They are not plug-ins; they are boxes containing real analog circuits whose settings are programmed from a plug-in in your DAW, which McDSP calls programmable analog. The APB-8 has 8 channels and the APB-16 has 16.
You simply insert an APB plug-in on a track. Audio and a control signal travel over Thunderbolt to the box, the analog circuitry processes the audio, and the result comes back to the DAW. McDSP says settings recall with the session and parameters can be automated with sample-accurate precision.
Each unit includes APB plug-ins covering compressors, EQ, limiters, multiband compression, a mixer and tape processing. McDSP's site lists DC-2, TAPE, BOB, KD1, Royal Mu, Royal Q, MC-3, Moo X, C673-A, EL MOO, MooTube, ChickenHead, L-18 and C-18.
The plug-ins run as AAX, AU and VST3, so besides Pro Tools they work in Logic, Cubase, Nuendo, Ableton Live, LUNA and other DAWs. The system supports macOS only, not Windows.
Real analog circuits controlled by plug-ins
Each channel's analog components are programmed from a DAW plug-in. Unlike hand-set outboard, presets and session recall come back the same each time, which may suit people who want analog processing inside a digital workflow.
Sample-accurate automation
The control signal is synchronized with the audio, so parameter moves are described as sample accurate. You could, for example, automate a compressor threshold along with the arrangement.
A growing plug-in collection
Compressors, EQ, limiters, multiband, a mixer and tape processing are included, and registering the unit adds more. The activation code in the box covers only the original six plug-ins.
8-channel and 16-channel models
An APB-16 can run up to sixteen mono or eight stereo APB plug-ins, though some plug-ins use more channels, as noted in each manual.
No digital clipping on the output
The three saturation circuits are calibrated not to exceed 0 dB, so McDSP's FAQ says the output cannot clip digitally.
Low-latency mode
With Pro Tools 2023.12 or later, APB plug-ins can use a low-latency mode, down to 207 samples (roughly 4.6 ms at 44.1 kHz) at the smallest buffer.
Daisy-chaining
Multiple APB-16 units can be chained over Thunderbolt with word clock passed along, allowing expansion for larger mixes.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Channels | APB-8: 8 / APB-16: 16 |
| Connection | Thunderbolt 2, 3 and 4 compatible |
| Converters | AKM 32-bit DAC / ADC |
| Sample rates | 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 kHz |
| Plug-in formats | AAX / AU / VST3 |
| Supported OS | macOS 12 Monterey to 26 Tahoe (Windows not supported) |
| Licensing | iLok2 / iLok3 or iLok Cloud session |
| Sync | APB-16 requires word clock input |
| Made in | USA |
What is included and system requirements
- APB-8 or APB-16 unit
- APB plug-ins (original six via activation code; more after registration)
- Power supply
- Registration card
- A limited-time offer currently lists a free Everything Pack of McDSP v7 plug-ins with APB purchase (per the official site)
How to use it
- Shut down the computer and make sure the APB-16 power button is off.
- Connect the power supply to the APB unit.
- Connect the word clock output of your audio interface to the APB-16 word clock input (press the 75 ohm button on the last unit).
- Connect the APB to the computer or interface by Thunderbolt.
- Register the unit, then download and install the latest APB drivers and plug-ins.
- Restart, open your DAW and insert an APB plug-in on a track.
- Save presets and draw automation as needed.
Adding analog character to mixes
Insert APB plug-ins on tracks or buses to process saturation and compression in the analog domain.
Sessions that need recall
Presets may let you bring back identical settings when handing sessions between rooms.
Surround and immersive mixing
Royal Mu and L-18 have surround versions supporting formats such as 7.1.4.
Mastering
Limiters such as the L-18 and the MC-3 multiband may offer an analog processing option for mastering.
Who it may suit
- People who want analog character with DAW recall
- Producers working on a Mac with Pro Tools, Logic or Cubase
- Mix engineers who want analog processing across many channels
- People doing surround or immersive work who want analog processing
Good to know before you buy
- Windows is not supported; the system runs on macOS.
- Plug-in authorization requires an iLok USB key, or an iLok account with iLok Cloud.
- Because processing is analog and real-time, there is no AudioSuite or freeze; you commit or bounce instead.
- McDSP states units must be bought from an authorized dealer for a valid warranty.
- The APB-16 needs a word clock connection.
How it differs from similar products
We do not pick a winner; the official figures are placed side by side.
APB-8 APB-16
The APB-16 has 16 channels and can run up to sixteen mono or eight stereo APB plug-ins, per McDSP's FAQ. The APB-8 is the 8-channel version with the same functions.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
See APB-8 / APB-16 Analog Processing Box on the product page
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