Drawmer DL441 Quad Auto Compressor Limiter

The DL441 Quad Auto Compressor/Limiter captures four channels of Drawmer's innovative DL241 'Auto Compressor' in only 1U of rack space. The inclusion of new sophisticated 'automated' circuitry allows the engineer to precisely control both the dynamic range and 'absolute' peak level of the programme instantly, without sacrificing essential control parameters. This perfect balance of features makes the DL441 ideal for use in sound reinforcement and outside broadcast applications where an economy in rack space is essential.

Each channel combines a fully professional 'Auto Attack/Release' Compressor with a variable threshold 'Peak Level' Limiter on the output providing a transparent 'endstop'. High resolution bar-graph displays on each channel allow gain reduction and output level to be viewed simultaneously, of particular importance in darkened concert hall or control room situations.

The compressor section can be switched to provide either HARD or SOFT knee compression. In both the HARD and SOFT modes a Ratio control is available. In the SOFT mode the ratio increases gradually over a 10dB input level range until it reaches the ratio set on the front panel control, thus achieving a more natural sounding compression In HARD mode the compressor provides a more precise means of controlling gain, where the ratio as set on the front panel is applied immediately the signal exceeds threshold. This is particularly useful in many broadcast applications. HARD knee compression can also be used creatively as an effect, particularly in the treatment of drum and guitar sounds, or for giving rock vocals a 'compressed sound'.

Removes the need for manual adjustment by producing a response which constantly follows the dynamics of the signal. This enables the DL441 to preserve crisp transients without allowing excessive peaks to occur. A smooth yet lively recovery from compression minimizes side effects such as 'pumping' and 'breathing'. This feature is particularly valuable when the program being treated does not have predictable or consistent dynamics, such as complete mixes, vocals or 'slapped and pulled' bass guitar.

'Zero Response Time', 'Zero Overshoot' circuitry provides an absolute limit to the peak level of the output signal, adjustable from 0db to +16dB above system level. 'Zero Response Time' transparent limiting means that the DL441 provides complete protection from even the fastest and shortest signal overloads, making the unit ideally suited for speaker system protection in sound reinforcement applications. The sophisticated circuitry will also prevent unpleasant distortion when used for digital mastering.