1978

Compression, Character & Creative Control
The Drawmer 1978 is a stereo bus compressor designed to do far more than control dynamics. Combining musical compression, tonal shaping, harmonic colour, and parallel processing in a compact 1U chassis, it makes crafting a polished, signature sound fast and intuitive.

Glue a mix together, reinforce the low end, smooth aggressive highs, add warmth, introduce subtle saturation, or enhance stereo width — all while keeping recordings musical, cohesive, and unmistakably analogue.

Characterful Stereo Bus Compression
Alongside classic Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release controls, the 1978 introduces four selectable Character modes, each offering a distinct compression flavour. A variable Saturation control adds harmonic richness and energy, from subtle warmth to more pronounced analogue colour.

The flexible side-chain EQ includes low- and high-frequency filters with selectable shapes and variable frequencies, making it easy to avoid unwanted pumping, enhance groove, or perform creative tasks such as de-essing. A wet/dry Mix control delivers true parallel compression directly within the unit, allowing precise blending of dynamics without external routing.

“The Drawmer 1978 is a flexible, well thought out new product… The combination of compression types, harmonic distortion and EQ sculpting is going to make it extremely useful.”
— Nick Mitchell, KMR Audio

Everything at Your Fingertips
The front panel is laid out for speed and clarity, giving instant access to every stage of processing:

• Compression: Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release with clear gain reduction metering
• Character: Four compression modes and variable Saturation for warmth, punch, or stereo enhancement
• Shaping: Side-chain EQ with adjustable LF and HF filters, plus insert points for external processing
• Output: Wet/Dry Mix and Output Level controls for effortless parallel compression and level matching
• Metering: Dual-colour backlit VU meters display saturation activity and fast-reacting output level at a glance

Built for Professional Reliability
Designed and built in the UK, the 1978 features a fast-reacting dual-colour VU meter, time-delay relays for silent power-up and power-down, and a low-hum toroidal linear power supply for clean, dependable performance. Premium components and thoughtful engineering ensure consistent results session after session.

Award-Winning Design
Recognised for its innovation, flexibility, and sound quality, the Drawmer 1978 is the proud winner of the Resolution Award 2016 in the Dynamics category, cementing its status as a modern classic in stereo bus compression.