API 550A then and now

[tropicalhotdog]

Is there much difference in sound between a pre-Datatronix 550A and a new one?

[tropicalhotdog]

Bump

[tropicalhotdog]

Bump.

I'm trying to get handle on if there's any additional value in getting a couple pre-Datatronix 550A's used, with no warranty, vs getting a couple new ones with warrantees. I don't have the opportinuty to try them first. Is there anything noticeably better about the older models?

I know that the used ones I'm considering do have two 2520's each and have been recapped.

[Kronos147]

I am hesitant to post this, as it is part of my "tribal knowledge" that I cannot verify.

My understanding is that the old API 2250's were actually discrete, where as now they are monlithic (IC's). So the older units would have that going for them.

FWIW, there is a thread on here about the API 1608 console where the owner changed all the 2250's for Avedis 1122 (which, as I understand, are discrete).

I too have changed the 2250's from my 512c's to 1122's and think there is an improvement.

If there are more differences, I don't know.

[Steamy Williams]

Originally Posted by Kronos147

I am hesitant to post this, as it is part of my "tribal knowledge" that I cannot verify.

My understanding is that the old API 2250's were actually discrete, where as now they are monlithic (IC's). So the older units would have that going for them.

FWIW, there is a thread on here about the API 1608 console where the owner changed all the 2250's for Avedis 1122 (which, as I understand, are discrete).

I too have changed the 2250's from my 512c's to 1122's and think there is an improvement.

If there are more differences, I don't know.

It's my understanding that API's current 2520 opamps are still discrete. However, they are now made using SMT components (Surface Mount Technology). I know of a well known UK dealer who has misinterpreted this as meaning that they can no longer be discrete. This is not the case, as a discrete circuit can be made with either SMT or through-hole components. Said dealer has commented on his website more than once that API are contradicting themselves by still marketing the 2520 as a discrete opamp, and he is quite stubborn, so I can't convince him that he is actually wrong. Having said that, API's marketing literature wrongly describes the 560 as having "Traditional API fully discrete circuit design", in spite of the fact that there are ICs in audio path in addition to the discrete 2520 opamp.

Sorry to go slight off topic there.

[API Sez...]

Originally Posted by Kronos147

My understanding is that the old API 2250's were actually discrete, where as now they are monlithic (IC's). So the older units would have that going for them.

Sorry, Kronos, your understanding is, in fact, wrong.

Old 2520's were discrete and new, factory fresh API 2520's are fully discrete as well. We have gone to great lengths to remain true to the original API designs as much as possible in all of our products. Only in places where some quantifiable improvements to the sound or performance of a piece of gear can be made have we ever tried to introduce any changes.

Additionally, with regards to the original post, current 550a's have two 2520's and are true to the original design. Of course, we would argue that buying a new 550a with a warranty gives a measure of customer reliability that you don't get with used, but performance-wise there should be no difference. There is nothing noticeably better about the older models, unless you are specifically drawn to them.

Some people like older models.

[tropicalhotdog]

Thanks for the replies.

[pan60]

i do not have a older one so no real comment as to which would be better.
i will say, i feel the new 550A's are awesome EQs, and personally, i would rather take the new one, and not have to deal with getting a older unit serviced, recapped, and / or repaired ( which seems to be the case ever-time i pick-up used gear ).