The API 2500 Bus Compressor is a permanent fixture on the stereo bus of many of the world's top engineers and producers for a reason. Considered the pinnacle of Paul Wolff-era API circuit designs, this famed compressor adds energy, movement, and tone to stereo mixes and subgroups in a way no other compressor can.

• The Only End-to-End API 2500 Emulation: Universal Audio's team of DSP experts meticulously analyzed two classic API 2500s—a rackmount unit and an in-console version—using proprietary, "for-your-eyes-only" schematics provided by API. This collaboration ensured one of UA's tightest behavioral circuit models to date. Every facet of the plug-in was scrutinized against its analog counterpart with API's engineers, resulting in the definitive representation of this iconic compressor. Early beta testing with UA artists confirmed its place among the most accurate analog emulations in UA history.
• Built for the 2-Bus: API designed the 2500 compressor specifically with program material in mind. Its Release control offers both fixed and variable options, while the Attack, Threshold, and Ratio controls provide musical tweaking throughout their entire range. This makes the API 2500 a powerful and toneful dynamics overlord for your stereo bus, effortlessly shaping your mix.
• Shaping Tone and Dynamics with Versatile Controls: The API 2500 provides exceptional flexibility for shaping your sound. You can select between three custom-voiced compression Knees—Soft, Medium, and Hard—to fine-tune the compression's character. Further sculpt your tone with two distinct compression types: "Old" delivers a characterful peak-detection, harkening back to API's earliest, highly-coveted 525 compressor, while "New" features a modern feed-forward design for a cleaner response.
• Thrust Control for Unmatched Punch: Derived from API's acclaimed Paragon series of consoles, the API 2500’s patented Thrust feature places a filter before the RMS detector. This innovative design evens out high and low-frequency energy, ensuring neither triggers the compressor more than the other. The result is a tight, hallmark API punch that sets it apart from any other compressor, giving your low frequencies incredible impact without muddiness.
• Enhance Energy and Motion with Precision Linking: Most compressors only offer a simple left/right linking on or off switch. The API 2500 Bus Compressor's Link parameters provide precision control over your mix's L/R dynamic interaction. You can set exactly how much dependence—or independence—you want your stereo spatial dynamics field to have. Further hone your dynamic contours with the additional Shape control, allowing for incredibly detailed stereo image manipulation.
• Sharpen Your Workflow with Plug-in-Only Controls: This plug-in enhances your modern workflow with exclusive features, including convenient Mix and Headroom controls. The Mix knob allows for quick parallel processing, while the Headroom control helps optimize gain staging.
• Artist Presets for Instant Inspiration: Kickstart your mixes with expertly crafted artist presets from renowned engineers like Jeff Balding (Faith Hill), Vance Powell (Jack White), Ryan Hewitt (Red Hot Chili Peppers), and many more, giving you a head start on achieving professional results.