The Drawmer 1973 is a three-band stereo FET compressor that delivers the versatility, control, and musicality no full-band compressor can match.
Building on over 30 years of Drawmer dynamics expertise, it combines the precision of the flagship S3 with the warmth and character of the classic 1960 and 1968. The result is transparent, intuitive compression across three independent bands, housed in a compact, powerful design.
The 1973's Big and Air switches, derived from the legendary S3, act as musical dynamic EQs rather than simple boosts. They enhance tone while reducing the influence of those frequencies on the compressor's detection circuit, adding presence and clarity without unwanted artefacts.
BIG reinforces the low end without over-compression, adding punch and warmth to kicks, bass, and full mixes.
AIR opens the highs with natural shimmer, bringing clarity to vocals, cymbals, and acoustic instruments without harshness.
Used together, Big and Air bring depth, balance, and definition to any mix - a signature part of the 1973's sound.
Audio is divided into low, mid, and high frequency bands using precision crossover filters, each compressed independently before being recombined. This allows detailed control of each part of the spectrum.
Tame boomy lows on an acoustic guitar without touching the highs, smooth harsh mids while leaving the rest of the mix open - control that full-band compressors simply can't achieve.
Independent control of lows, mids, and highs makes the 1973 equally at home in mixing and mastering.
On vocals, the low band adds body, the mid band tames raspiness, and the high band adds sheen and definition — with effortless control over sibilance. In mastering, tighten the bottom, lift the top, or reveal midrange detail, all without pumping, breathing, or losing headroom.
"This is not only a great multi-band compressor but one of the nicest hardware dynamics processors we have used in some time."
Where most multi-band compressors can feel complex, the 1973 keeps operation clear and intuitive.
Each of the three bands has identical controls arranged left to right, separated by variable crossover points. To the right, large illuminated VU meters and output controls provide immediate visual feedback and precise control.
The 1973's Mix control makes parallel compression fast and simple. By blending the wet (compressed) and dry (original) signals, you can fine-tune the balance between impact and transparency with a single knob.
Add more dry for natural dynamics, or more wet for weight and density - parallel compression has never been easier.
Combining musical response, precise control, and effortless operation, the Drawmer 1973 brings the power of multi-band compression into any studio.
The 1973 has been nominated for and won several awards since it's introduction, including winning the prestigious Resolution Award 2014 in the Dynamics category and also the KEYS musik und computer Award 2015 in the Best Studio Tool catagory.
