Drawmer
Drawmer MQ-2 500 Series Stereo 7-Band Equalizer
Best precise stereo equalization for professional studio applications.
The Drawmer MQ-2 is a stereo, 7-band proportional Q parametric equalizer inspired by the legendary 'Motown EQ' of the 1960s. It offers 7 bell curves with a fully variable ±10 dB cut/boost at musically significant frequencies. Beyond its EQ capabilities, the MQ-2 features an integrated, program-dependent one-knob compressor for effortless level control. Additionally, the 'CRUSH' feature adds pleasing harmonic saturation and classic analog warmth, fattening bass, adding presence to mids, and bringing shimmer to the top end. Designed and manufactured in the U.K., it provides a straightforward way to achieve that sought-after warm analog sound.
$485.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
172
/ 343
#172 in Noise Gates & Compressors
Price vs Category Average
-61%
Below average
Who it's for
- Audio professionals demanding high-fidelity tone shaping for critical production tasks.
- Studio owners maximizing rack space and building a versatile modular processing chain.
- Mix engineers requiring precise, linked EQ adjustments for stereo instruments or buses.
Who should skip it
- New users without an existing 500 series rack or budget for one.
- Mastering engineers requiring extremely precise, continuous frequency manipulation.
- Audio professionals needing flexible bandwidth control for intricate sound design.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Character
Captures the elusive, warm vintage vibe of legendary Motown-era hardware.
Saturation Versatility
The CRUSH feature adds authentic analog grit and harmonic richness effortlessly.
Dynamics Control
One-knob compression provides intuitive, program-dependent leveling for quick mix adjustments.
Workflow Efficiency
Streamlined interface allows for rapid tonal shaping without menu diving.
Build Integrity
Robust British engineering ensures reliable performance in any 500 series rack.
Frequency Precision
Proportional Q curves deliver musical, natural-sounding adjustments across the spectrum.
Key Specs
Dual-Channel
500 Series Module
2 Slot width
Parametric EQ type
10 dB boost or cut
Integrated CRUSH harmonic saturation
One-knob compressor
Hard-wired bypass
Features
- Motown-inspired 7-band EQ
- Harmonic saturation with 'CRUSH' feature
- Integrated one-knob compressor
- Variable +/- 10 dB boost/cut
- Hard-wired bypass switch
- Stereo operation
- 500 Series module format
- Designed and manufactured in the U.K.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional sound quality and robust build of this equalizer. Users highlight its transparent yet powerful sonic shaping capabilities, making it a valuable tool for precise audio adjustments. Many appreciate its reliable performance and the clean, musical character it imparts. The straightforward interface contributes to its ease of use in professional studio environments, allowing engineers to quickly achieve desired results without unnecessary complexity. Its consistent performance across various applications solidifies its reputation as a dependable workhorse.
Know before you buy
The MQ-2 is a double-width module, meaning it requires two adjacent slots in your 500 series chassis.
The CRUSH feature adds harmonic saturation across the entire signal path, providing analog warmth and character to your stereo source rather than targeting specific frequency bands.
The compressor is a program-dependent, one-knob design. It is intended for quick, effortless level control, making it ideal for smoothing out dynamics without needing to adjust complex threshold or ratio settings.
While it excels at tracking and mixing due to its musical bell curves and saturation, its stereo operation and precise ±10 dB control make it a capable tool for adding character and warmth to a stereo bus or mastering chain.
A proportional Q design means the bandwidth of the filter narrows as you increase the amount of boost or cut. This allows for broad, gentle tonal shaping at lower settings and more surgical, precise adjustments when you push the gain further.
Yes, the hard-wired bypass provides a true signal path, ensuring that the audio remains unaffected by the EQ and compression circuitry when the unit is disengaged.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.