Drawmer DS-30 (1987–1991)

The Drawmer DS-30 is a single-channel compressor/limiter with a five-band parametric equalizer, produced from 1987 to 1991. It was a 2U rackmount unit aimed at the professional studio market, with an original list price of $2,199.99 (1987). The compressor has adjustable threshold and ratio (X1 - X10). The limiter has an adjustable threshold. The parametric EQ section is the part users praise most, and some call it a highly underrated mastering-desk EQ. An expander/sustainer is always in the signal path and cannot be bypassed, which contributes to the unit's characteristic "punch."

Specifications from period sources are patchy and sometimes conflict. Frequency response is stated as 20 Hz - 20 kHz ±0.5 dB. Total harmonic distortion is typically below 0.01% at 1 kHz, though references disagree on whether that figure is taken at +10 dBu or +20 dBu. Noise is typically -86 dBu (20 Hz - 20 kHz). Input impedance is 10 kΩ balanced, output impedance 50 Ω balanced. Maximum input and output levels exceed +26 dBu into 600 Ω. Power consumption is 12 W, weight 4.35 kg (9.59 lbs), dimensions 482 × 88 × 250 mm (19″ × 3.46″ × 9.84″). Inputs and outputs are balanced XLR and balanced jack, and there is a front-panel side-chain insert point. No digital I/O.

The surviving information is thin. It comes from dealer listings, forum user reports, the unit's original specification sheet (now circulating online), and period reviews such as EQ Magazine (June 1992, p.112), which lists the US distributor as QMI. Owners often comment on the EQ, describing it as stunning and musical, and on the clean compressor, especially at 10:1. Common uses include kick, snare, drum room mics, and bus compression. A known reliability issue involves Lundahl ribbon connectors that can develop an intermittent screeching noise. The typical fix is replacing capacitors and reseating the ribbon cables. Used prices run around $950 - $995.

Type: Single-channel compressor/limiter with 5-band parametric EQ and expander/sustainer
Production: 1987–1991
Original price: $2,199.99 (1987)
Frequency response: 20 Hz–20 kHz ±0.5 dB
THD: Typically <0.01% at 1 kHz (level uncertain)
Noise: Typically –86 dBu (20 Hz–20 kHz)
Dynamics: >105 dB
Power: 12 W
Weight: 4.35 kg (9.59 lbs)
Dimensions: 482 × 88 × 250 mm (19″ × 3.46″ × 9.84″)