Drawmer Introduces DSL424 TwoPlusTwo Gate/Compressor
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(Click for a close-up) |
August 31, 2004
U.K.-based signal processing manufacturer Drawmer
will be introducing the DSL424 TwoPlusTwo Gate/Compressor into the U.S. market at
AES 2004 in San Francisco. The Drawmer DSL424 combines two
frequency-conscious noise gates and two soft/hard knee compressors with
variable threshold limiting in a 1U, four-channel toolbox
that is capable of solving the most complex dynamic problems.
The new DSL424 combines the gate design of Drawmer's DS404 with the
compressor/limiters of the DL441 to provide a versatile, 1U problem-solver
that is especially invaluable in applications where rack space is limited.
Like the units with which it shares its design, the DSL424 is ideal for
sound reinforcement and outside broadcast applications that demand simple to
operate equipment that occupies the minimum of rack space.
From the front panel, users may configure the unit as four individual
standalone processors or as a stereo linked pair of compressor/limiters with
a stereo linked pair of gates. Alternatively, any combination of processing
may be achieved through rear panel patching.
The noise gate design in the DSL424 utilizes the company's unique 'Program
Adaptive' circuitry, which optimizes the attack time and ratio as well as
having some effect on the manual release setting. Each channel may be
operated as a HARD or SOFT gate with switchable attenuation and LED 'traffic
light' indication of mode status.
In HARD mode the DSL424 offers ultra-fast response time, stable triggering
with complete freedom from chatter around threshold and a specialized
release contour ideally suited to drums and other percussive material. In
SOFT mode it becomes a versatile Expander capable of handling vocals and
sub-mixes.
Frequency-selective gating is offered using variable Low- and High-Pass
Filters. The unit can be switched for either Internal or External Key source
and the KEY LISTEN facility enables monitoring of the filter setting.
The inclusion of 'automated' circuitry allows the engineer to
precisely control both the dynamic range and 'absolute' peak level of the
program instantly. Each channel combines an 'Auto
Attack/Release' compressor with a threshold 'Peak Level' limiter on the
output, adjustable from 0dB to +16dB above system level, offering 'zero
overshoot' for protection against signal overloads.
In both the HARD and SOFT compression modes a Ratio control is available,
with Auto Attack and Release removing the need for manual adjustment by
producing a response that constantly follows the dynamics of the signal. The
SOFT mode offers a more natural sounding compression by increasing the ratio
gradually over a 10dB input level range up to the set ratio. In HARD mode
the set ratio is applied immediately when the signal exceeds the threshold.
High-resolution bargraph displays meter gain reduction and output level
simultaneously. Balanced +4dB XLR in/out connectors are provided, with
1/4-inch jack Key inputs.
For more information, visit their web site at www.drawmerusa.com. | 
