Have an API Lunch box with 560's in it, looking to fill my other slots, probably gonna add a 512c but looking to add some more variety as well.
I was wondering what is the closest thing to Neve'ish/1073 or GTQ style color available in 500 Series style form factor?

Also, is there an updated list of all the 500 / Lunchbox compatible modules out there ?
Any other comps or EQ's coming?

I'm looking for coloration & old-school sound.

I think most of them can be pretty colored depending on how you are hitting them. Or if you have an input and output gain, you can adjust for maximum color. For what you are asking, I would bet the Shadow Hills Mono Gama would work simply because of the different transformer options -- different colors and one uncolored (have not heard it however). The OSA L3 is pretty thick to me fwiw(and I've heard Neve-ish, but haven't done a direct comparison), great pre regardless.

https://www.gearslutz.com/board/so-much-gear-so-little-time/54104-list-here-all-lunchbox-modules-api-500-series-format.html

Unfortunately, there isn't anything close in a 500 series form factor....

Let's recycle this thread if you don't mind (almost 5 years after)heh

So to quote the initial thread starter "Whats most colored Pre/EQ for the API Lunchbox?", I'm interested because I'm maybe evaluating the 500 format ( was never convinced it could compete with 19 format)
Is it still the case ?
Thanks

The PURPLE AUIDIO BIZ MK and PANTS, seem to have like 14 different ways to change the sound. Pair those with some ODD's or TAV's, you'll be inside a dense rainbow of color heaven. The API chains are a no brainer to me. 512c-550B-527, but it's not smeared, or polishing, it's thick and punishing!

Thanks a lot Roc ! I did not follow purple audio products the last 3 yearstutt
If we remove the equalizer from the equation what 500 format preamp may be described as thick, midrangey, heavy (warm) WIthout rolling off the high frequencies ?
Helios ?
Chandler ?
A design
Other non usual suspects less know but still "boutique" ?

Avedis MA5?

Probably the best preamp made (component / quality wise speaking) for the 500 series IMO. It's pretty colored, nice tight and big lows, a very nice mid and top range as well..
Definitely in the Neve-ish realm..

It would be my pick!

Ciao

Just my 0.02$,

Cheu

5 years later and the MA5 is the answer to the OP's question looking for a Neve style unit.

Thank you mates !
Any 500 preamp + tape simulator on the market ? I will maybe starts a new thread heh