The 212 pre

API has two famous variations of their preamp. The 212 and 312. CAPI copies both and they have great explanations on their site on how they differ. I'm happy to say that my console and all 1608 consoles have the older pre with the more vintage sound. I have to say, they really smush. As long you are careful with drums these are the best all around pre out there. I choose API over neve because I wanted to balance the harmonic saturation with a modern sound that doesn't overly kill the transients. For drums I keep the faders up and the pres low. For more drive on guitar and vocals I more the fader down and turn the pre up.