API 560 graphic EQ plugin interface by Waves

API 560: Graphic EQ Plugin by Waves

API 560 is a graphic equalizer plugin from Waves, created with API, that models the 10-band proportional-Q EQ introduced in 1967. It is available in VST2, AU and AAX formats.

VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS

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01Overview

API 560 is Waves' graphic equalizer plugin, developed in association with API. It recreates the 560 hardware EQ, a classic from 1967 that uses a traditional graphic interface to make broad tonal changes. The plugin is aimed at complex sources such as mic overheads, pianos and guitars, where clear, well-defined tone shaping matters. The developer describes the design as verified by API, with the aim of sounding natural and musical.

Best for

Mic overhead EQ
Piano tone shaping
Guitar tone shaping
Broad tonal EQ moves
Analog-style mix coloration

Developer: Waves
Category: EQ
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Models the 1967 API 560 graphic equalizer
Developed in close collaboration with API
Proportional Q narrows filter Q at extremes
10 bands from 31 Hz to 16 kHz, an octave apart
Extra resolution in the ±4 dB region
Analog modeling switch for harmonic distortion and hiss
Output section with phase switch and ±18 dB level
Analog circuit emulation available with EQ bypassed

03In depth

Sound and Proportional Q

The central feature of API 560 is its proportional-Q filter topology. Waves says the filter Q narrows at the extremes of the gain range, which it describes as a more forgiving sound when boosting or cutting strongly.

The EQ has 10 frequency bands from 31 Hz to 16 kHz, spaced an octave apart. Extra resolution is included in the ±4 dB region, where the developer says finer adjustments are most important.

An analog modeling switch adds subtle harmonic distortion and hiss. The output section includes a phase switch and a ±18 dB level control.

Workflow and Use Cases

API 560 suits producers who want fast, broad EQ moves on individual tracks rather than surgical notch work. Its graphic layout makes the band settings easy to read at a glance.

The analog circuit emulation remains available with the EQ bypassed, so the coloration can be used on its own. Typical sources named by the developer include mic overheads, pianos and guitars.

The plugin runs on Windows and macOS. Mac support covers macOS Monterey 12 through Sequoia 15, and Windows support requires Windows 10 or later.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Waves
Type	Plugin
Category	EQ
Formats	VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats is API 560 available in?

API 560 is available in VST2, AU and AAX formats.

Which operating systems does API 560 support?

API 560 runs on Windows and macOS. Mac support covers macOS Monterey 12, Ventura 13, Sonoma 14 and Sequoia 15, and Windows support requires Windows 10 or later.