With 500 series modules, customization is the name of the game. The idea that you can choose your microphone preamp, equalizer and compressor (and more) individually and add them to your own rackmountable chassis opens up new doors for recording pros and novices alike. The portability and convenience of these 500 series modules make them an ideal option for anyone looking to get into the recording scene. API was the first manufactures that released a system for combining separate modules. Instead of having to buy a full and complete recording system, you could pick and choose what you needed to complete your own recording setup. As years went on other brands jumped on creating 500 series modules as well, making everything from preamps to tracking processors to ladder filters. Today’s selection is vast and makes it easy for you to create something all your own. 500 series modules also offer extreme flexibility. Once you have a chassis or frame to put all of your modules in, you can add or subtract however you please. The basic set up would be a preamp, equalizer and compressor. Options like the A Designs 500 Blue preamp, Golden Age Project EQ and the Lindell Audio 7X-500 compressor, while being all separate brands, can pair together giving you a truly flexible and customized recording experience. Should you want to trade up one of the models, you can easily swap it out and replace it. The 500 series experience is one that can be utilized by anyone looking to record, no matter how detailed you want to get with your mixes. Basic recording needs can be met with ease and once you become more accustomed to the process, you can move on and add other modules that will help fine tune your abilities. These building blocks are a great way to begin your foray into the complex world of sound capturing.