New DSL424 Gate/Compressor from Drawmer

(Click for a close-up)

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.