Drawmer 1968 MK2 Dual Vacuum Tube Compressor
Blend Valves and FETs for Quality Compression
The Drawmer 1968 MK2 is a 1U Tube/FET ‘stereo bus’ compressor, designed to deliver a transparent and open sound even during heavy compression. By combining the characteristics of vacuum tubes and J-FETs, the 1968 MK2 provides high-quality compression with a unique character.
Unlike the original Drawmer 1960, which used a tube stage at the front of the compressor, the 1968 MK2 utilizes a J-FET gain reduction circuit that operates faster than an opto-isolator. This compressor also includes a 12AX7 tube makeup gain amplifier, which allows users to add up to 20 dB of gain using the Output Gain control. The compressor operates on the soft knee principle, eliminating the need for a ratio control and providing a progressive onset of compression.
Expanded Controls for Versatile Compression
The 1968 MK2 offers expanded attack and release times, giving users greater control over the compression characteristics. Attack times can be set to 2, 9, 15, 25, 30, or 50 milliseconds. The release times include three fixed options (100 ms, 500 ms, and 1 second) as well as three program-dependent options that automatically adjust based on the audio material: 200 ms to 2 seconds, 500 ms to 5 seconds, and 1 to 10 seconds.
The 1968 MK2 also features full sidechain access, allowing external equalizers to be connected for vocal stressing or de-essing. A unique “BIG” and “BIGGER” switch is available on both channels, which reduces compression on the fundamental low frequencies while still controlling higher harmonics, resulting in a solid bottom end with enhanced sub-bass and a smoother frequency response.
Output and Monitoring
The output of each channel is monitored using two yellow illuminated VU meters, which feature a red warning glow to indicate when the signal is approaching clipping. A three-position switch adjusts the VU meters to display output level, gain reduction, or VU +10dB mode, which re-scales the meter for users working at hotter output levels.
The output section also includes an output switch for selecting normal compressor output, hard-wired bypass, or sidechain listen mode, giving users maximum flexibility when working with different audio sources.
Features
- 2-channel Tube/FET compressor with a blend of classic and modern compression characteristics.
- Soft-knee compressors with variable threshold, attack, release, and output gain.
- Switchable “BIG” and “BIGGER” control on each channel for enhanced low-frequency response.
- Dual mono or true stereo link operation for versatile use in various setups.
- Full sidechain access with sidechain listen capability for precise vocal stressing or de-essing.
- VU metering for gain reduction and output levels, with +10dB mode for monitoring hot levels.
- Red warning glow on VU meters to indicate when the signal is approaching clipping.
- Balanced +4dB XLR inputs and outputs for easy integration into professional audio setups.
- Classic Drawmer build quality with a rugged steel chassis and aluminum front panel.
- Designed and handmade by Drawmer in the United Kingdom.
- Additional features on the MK2 include expanded “BIG” and “BIGGER” options, internal jumpers for bypassing the soft clip section, and an improved power supply for a lower noise floor.
