API 550

The API 550 plugin from Waves recreates the legendary late-1960s API 550A and 550B equalizers, bringing their unique gain-dependent Q curves to your DAW. Boosting frequencies becomes more focused and musical, while cutting delivers natural, subtle-to-steep shaping. Use the 550A’s three bands with five selectable frequencies and a 50 Hz–15 kHz filter, or the 550B’s four overlapping bands with multi-octave ranges. High and low bands switch between peak and shelving, making it easy to lift instruments forward or place them back in the mix. Switchable analog harmonic distortion and hiss add authentic character, while phase switch, output trim, and metering keep workflow smooth. Ideal for individual tracks, buses, or full masters, the 550 delivers musical transparency for problem-solving or sweetening. Perfect for hobby producers seeking classic console tone in FL Studio, Ableton, or Logic.