August 31, 2004

UK-based signal processing manufacturer Drawmer will be introducing the
DSL424 TwoPlusTwo Gate/Compressor into the US 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