Drawmer 1971
Best characterful compression for professional audio mixing and mastering.
The Drawmer 1971 is a 2-channel, 4-band parametric equalizer that offers both subtle shaping for mastering and robust tonal sculpting. It features precision stepped potentiometers for accurate recall, and fully variable frequency and bandwidth controls on the mid bands. The unit includes adjustable low and high cut filters with switchable slopes and a unique 'Crush' function that adds warmth, presence, and harmonics. Designed for tonal shaping and adding analog warmth, it's ideal for recording engineers and musicians seeking classic sound.
$1590.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
154
/ 306
#154 in Equalizers
Price vs Category Average
-43%
Below average
Type
24
/ -channel, -band Parametric Equalizer
Who it's for
- Audio engineers seeking detailed control over their mixes and masters
- Producers valuing classic analog warmth and sonic integrity in their signal chain
- Studio professionals needing a flexible processor for diverse audio tasks
Who should skip it
- Novice engineers unfamiliar with advanced dynamic processing techniques
- Home studio owners with limited budgets for high-end hardware
- Digital-native producers preferring the convenience and recall of software plugins
Performance breakdown
Tonal Sculpting Precision
Four-band parametric control offers surgical accuracy for complex audio sources.
Analog Warmth
The Crush function adds distinct harmonic saturation and vintage character.
Recall Accuracy
Stepped potentiometers make session resets fast and perfectly repeatable.
Filter Versatility
Switchable slopes provide flexible frequency management for any mix.
Build Integrity
Rugged steel chassis ensures long-term reliability in demanding studio environments.
Workflow Efficiency
Intuitive layout allows for rapid adjustments during critical mixing sessions.
Key Specs
Type
2-channel, 4-band Parametric Equalizer
Bandwidth
Fully variable on mid bands
Filters
Variable Low and High Cut Filters (10Hz-225Hz and 4kHz-32kHz)
Slope Settings
Switchable slopes on low and high bands (6, 9, 12dB/octave, Peak setting on low band)
Crush Function
Switchable on each band
Bypass
True hardware bypass for each band and unit
Power Supply
Internal Low Hum Toroidal Linear Power Supply with Voltage Selector Switch
Build
Rugged Steel Chassis and Aluminium Front Panel
Features
- Dual 4-band Parametric EQ with Variable Bandwidth
- Variable Low and High Cut Filters
- Switchable Slope and Low Peak Settings
- Unique 'Crush' Function for Harmonics and Warmth
- Precision Stepped Potentiometers for Recall
- True Hardware Bypass
- Classic Drawmer Build Quality
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Drawmer 1971 for its exceptional sound quality and versatile compression capabilities. Users highlight its ability to add character and punch to various audio sources, from drums to vocals, without sounding harsh. Many appreciate its intuitive controls, making it accessible for both experienced engineers and those new to advanced dynamics processing. The unit is frequently described as a robust and reliable workhorse, delivering professional results that elevate mixes. Its distinct sonic signature is a major draw, providing a valuable tool for creative sound shaping.
Know before you buy
The Crush function introduces harmonic saturation and grit to the signal, adding warmth and presence. It is designed to help tracks cut through a mix by providing a subtle analog character that mimics the behavior of vintage gear.
The 1971 features precision stepped potentiometers for all frequency and gain controls. This design is specifically intended to make it easy to recall your exact settings when working on different projects.
While it is robust enough for tracking, the 1971 is well-suited for mastering due to its precise stepped controls and flexible parametric design. The ability to switch slopes on the low and high bands provides the surgical control often required in a mastering chain.
The filters are highly flexible, offering adjustable frequency ranges and switchable slopes of 6, 9, or 12dB per octave. This allows you to clean up unwanted rumble or harsh high-end frequencies with either a gentle musical roll-off or a steeper, more aggressive cut.
Yes, the 1971 features a true hardware bypass for each individual band as well as a master bypass for the entire unit. This allows you to accurately compare your processed signal against the dry source without any coloration from the circuitry.
Yes, the unit is equipped with an internal low-hum toroidal power supply that includes a voltage selector switch. This makes it compatible with various international power standards.
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$1590