Drawmer MX30-Pro Dual Gated Compressor Limiter

Dual Gate, Compressor & Limiter

The Drawmer MX30-Pro Gated Compressor/Limiter is a low-cost, professional-quality dynamics processor, designed for musicians, project studios, and live performers who want high-quality performance on a budget. The MX30-Pro draws from Drawmer’s many years of experience in professional audio, incorporating circuit elements from their top-of-the-line products while simplifying control systems for ease of use. The MX Pro range delivers sophisticated processing without compromising quality, making it an excellent choice for those who value performance and simplicity.

Programme Adaptive Gate

The MX30-Pro features a variable threshold gate incorporating Drawmer’s ‘Programme Adaptive’ circuitry, designed to remove unwanted noise below a pre-set level. The gate’s auto-circuitry continuously optimizes parameters such as attack, hold, ratio, and release, eliminating “chatter” when the signal fluctuates near the threshold. This approach retains all “leading edge” information, making the gate ideal for cleaning up vocals or maintaining punch on gated drums. The gate includes a switch for ‘Fast’ or ‘Slow’ release characteristics, suitable for different instrument types, and a single LED indicating gating action.

Soft Knee Auto Compressor

The gate is followed by a variable threshold, variable ratio, soft knee compressor with fully automatic attack and release. The MX30-Pro handles large transients instantly while gently treating small signal variations, retaining the natural dynamics of the signal without creating unpredictable side effects. The amount of compression is displayed on a high-resolution gain reduction bargraph meter, ensuring easy monitoring of the compression level.

Output Control & Limiter

The output section features a gain control that compensates for the applied compression, bringing the signal to the desired output level. The MX30-Pro also includes a variable threshold “zero overshoot” limiter, essential for avoiding distortion during mastering or providing speaker protection in live situations. The limiter ensures control over signal peaks, with a fast response time that keeps the output clean and free from distortion.

Control Features

• Gate Threshold: Sets the level below which gating takes place, adjustable from -70dB to +20dB, with LED indicators for gate status.
• Release: Switchable between Fast or Slow auto release to suit different material types, with an LED indicating Slow release mode.
• Compressor Threshold: Determines the input level above which gain reduction is applied, adjustable from -40dB to +20dB.
• Gain Reduction Meter: Nine-segment LED bargraph continuously monitors the gain reduction applied by the compressor.
• Ratio: Adjustable compression ratio from 1.2:1 to infinity:1, allowing for hard limiting if desired.
• Stereo Link: Allows the unit to function as two independent channels or link for stereo use, ensuring equal gain reduction for both channels.
• Output Gain: Adjustable output level to compensate for compression, up to ±20dB.
• Peak Limit: Sets an absolute limit that the output signal will not exceed, ensuring transparent peak protection.
• Input/Output Meter: Eight-segment LED bargraph level meter monitors the output level or input level when bypassed.

Features

• 2-channel dynamics processor with programme adaptive gate and soft knee compressor.
• Switchable fast/slow release for the gate, ensuring low-level noise removal without affecting the material.
• Soft knee auto compressor with fully automatic attack and release for smooth dynamic processing.
• Variable threshold zero response time peak limiter for clean peak control.
• Stereo linking for matched gain reduction across channels.
• Gain reduction and input/output bargraph metering for easy monitoring.
• Simultaneous balanced +4dB XLR and unbalanced -10dB jack input/output connectors.
• Rugged steel chassis and aluminum front panel, classic Drawmer build quality.
• Designed and manufactured by Drawmer in the UK.