Drawmer 1961 Two-Channel Tube Parametric EQ
Best tube EQ for professional audio engineers seeking analog warmth.
The Drawmer 1961 is a two-channel tube parametric equalizer designed to offer exceptional equalization with unique sonic character. It combines low-noise circuitry with twelve active tube stages, providing a 'warmth' and 'musicality' often sought after in audio production. The stepped switching system ensures accurate frequency selection and optimized performance across the audio spectrum. Users can control the degree of tube 'warmth' from clean to 'hot' by adjusting the input level, which ranges from -20dB to +20dB. Features include a variable High Pass Filter (20Hz-500Hz), a variable Low Pass Filter (2.5kHz-42kHz), and individual bypass switches for each EQ section and the master bypass. It offers selectable operating levels of -10dBu and +4dBu and insert points for integration with other gear.
$2499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
32
/ 306
#32 in Equalizers
Price vs Category Average
-10%
Below average
Input Impedances
2047
/ XLR: K Ohm, Insert: K Ohm
Who it's for
- Audio professionals desiring classic analog warmth and sonic depth.
- Mastering engineers and producers needing detailed frequency manipulation.
- Studio professionals requiring dependable, long-lasting analog processing.
Who should skip it
- Home studio owners or budget-conscious producers.
- Mobile engineers or those with limited studio space.
- Users preferring zero-maintenance, plug-and-play digital solutions.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Character
Twelve active tube stages deliver rich, musical harmonic saturation.
Frequency Precision
Stepped switching ensures surgical accuracy for critical equalization tasks.
Signal Integrity
Low-noise circuitry maintains pristine audio quality even when pushed hard.
Versatility
Variable filters and insert points allow for complex signal chain integration.
Build Quality
Robust rack-mount design built to withstand years of studio use.
Workflow Efficiency
Tactile rotary controls provide immediate, repeatable access to all parameters.
Key Specs
Input Impedances
XLR: 20K Ohm, Insert: 47K Ohm
Maximum Input Level
+17dB (+21dBu)
Output Impedances
XLR: 50 Ohm, INSERT: 200 Ohm
Frequency Response
<22Hz to 42KHz -1dB
Crosstalk
<-80dB @ 10KHz, <-75dB @ 20KHz
Input Cmr
Better than 40dB (20Hz to 10KHz)
Output Balance
Better than 40dB (20Hz to 10KHz)
Noise At Unity Gain with flat EQ response switched in circuit @ 22Hz - 22KHz
AV: -94dB, RMS: -92dB
Features
- Two-channel tube parametric EQ
- Variable input level for driving tubes
- High and Low Pass Filters
- Adjustable bandwidth per EQ section
- Individual and master bypass switches
- Selectable operating levels (-10dBu/+4dBu)
- Insert points for integration
- Balanced XLR I/O
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Drawmer 1961 for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Users frequently describe its tube driven character as warm, musical, and rich, imparting a desirable sonic depth to audio. The unit's premium construction and reliable performance are often highlighted, affirming its professional grade status. While a significant investment, many find its unique sound shaping capabilities and high end components deliver outstanding results, making it a valued tool for those seeking distinctive analog warmth and precision in their mixes.
Know before you buy
You can adjust the tube character by manipulating the input level control, which ranges from -20dB to +20dB. Pushing the input level harder drives the twelve active tube stages, allowing you to move from a clean, transparent sound to a warmer, 'hotter' harmonic saturation.
Yes, the unit utilizes a stepped switching system for its controls. This design ensures that frequency selection and gain adjustments are consistent and repeatable, making it much easier to recall settings compared to standard continuous potentiometers.
Yes, the unit features selectable operating levels of -10dBu and +4dBu. This allows you to integrate the equalizer into both professional studio environments and home setups without gain-staging issues.
The insert points allow you to integrate external processors directly into the signal path of the 1961. This is particularly useful if you want to chain additional outboard gear, such as a compressor, specifically within the EQ's signal chain.
Both filters are fully variable. The high pass filter can be adjusted from 20Hz to 500Hz, while the low pass filter ranges from 2.5kHz to 42kHz, providing significant flexibility for cleaning up the frequency extremes of your audio.
Yes, the unit includes individual bypass switches for each EQ section, as well as a master bypass switch. This allows you to quickly compare your processed signal against the dry, unprocessed source to ensure your adjustments are enhancing the audio as intended.
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