Drawmer 1960 Vintage Tube Compressor & Pre-Amplifier

Classic Tube Warmth & Modern Reliability

The Drawmer 1960 is a two-channel unit that combines the classic, warm sound of vacuum tubes with the low noise and reliability of solid-state electronics. With eight active tube stages, it provides a natural and vibrant character to audio, making it an ideal interface between the sound source and recording medium. This powerful combination results in a “warmer, more alive” sound that is loved by many engineers and producers.

Each channel of the Drawmer 1960 features a “soft knee” vacuum tube compressor and an extremely low-noise microphone pre-amplifier, complete with switchable 48-volt phantom power. Additionally, an auxiliary instrument pre-amp with EQ is included. This combination allows engineers to harness the full potential of high-performance condenser microphones, making the 1960 perfect for recording both live classical music and more modern sessions.

Compressor Section

The soft knee compressor of the 1960 is designed for easy use, with few controls needed. The “Threshold” control adjusts the amount of compression, with a continuously variable range from infinity to -24dB. Signals below the threshold remain unprocessed, while signals exceeding the threshold are gradually subjected to increasing gain reduction.

The attack and release times are switchable, with choices of slow, medium, and fast attack, and six release settings. Four of these are fixed times, while two are program-dependent modes that adapt to complex dynamics, making them perfect for stereo mixes and vocals. The attack times are further influenced by the release setting, offering a wide range of options.

Gain Make-Up & Side Chain Features

To compensate for the gain reduction, a make-up amplification stage follows the compressor, providing up to +20dB of gain. The VU meters can be switched to monitor either the amount of gain reduction or the output signal level, and the two channels can be used independently or linked for stereo operation.

The side chain access points allow for equalizers to be patched in, enabling the compressor to function as a de-esser. The by-pass switch offers options for Normal, By-pass, and Side Chain Listen modes, allowing users to monitor the effect of any additional side chain processing.

Pro Mic Pre-Amp & Direct Input

In addition to the balanced microphone and line inputs on the rear panel, the Drawmer 1960 features an auxiliary input on the front panel for direct access to guitars or electronic instruments. This input includes equalization and sufficient gain to drive the tube pre-amp for sustain effects. This auxiliary input effectively combines the benefits of a DI box, equalizer, and compressor, making it an incredibly versatile tool for both live and studio applications.

Features

• Stereo preamp and tube compressor with soft knee circuitry from the legendary 1960s series.
• Dual mono or stereo operation with link function.
• 2 high-quality microphone preamps with switchable 48V phantom power.
• Classic soft knee compressor with adjustable attack and release settings.
• 2 switchable VU meters that can display gain reduction (G.R.) or output level (V.U.).
• Based on the legendary Fairchild 670 compressor design.
• 8 active tube stages for rich, warm sound.
• Side-chain input with listen function for isolated monitoring of the side chain signal.
• Aux instrument input with additional EQ and its own tube stage for added versatility.
• Classic Drawmer build quality with a rugged steel chassis and aluminum front panel.
• Designed and handmade in the United Kingdom by Drawmer.