Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $2,745

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp, a perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern technology. This two-channel unit is your ticket to the world-class warmth and body that only vacuum tubes can offer. Known for their distinctive "warmer, punchier" sound, the vacuum tubes in the 1960 infuse your music with a rich resonant tone that digital devices only dream of replicating.

Each channel combines an ultra low-noise microphone preamplifier with switchable 48 volt phantom power and a 'soft knee' vacuum tube compressor, delivering a natural and lively sound. Whether you're working with line or mic level signals, the Drawmer 1960 is versatile and accommodating. This is not just a throwback to the 60's, it’s a fusion of the best of then and now.

Key Features:

  • 2 Channel, 2 rack space vacuum tube compressor with mic/line/instrument preamp
  • Proprietary vacuum tube/FET based discrete VCA
  • Classic attack/release curves used in vintage compressors
  • Auto ratio depending on signal attack slope (1:30 maximum)
  • VU switchable metering
  • Vacuum tube preamp accepts mic, line or front panel instrument
  • Hi-gain switch for high impedance instrument inputs (guitar)
  • Bright switch on instrument input
  • +4 operation

Owner's manual

Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp User Manual

Product specs

Preamp Type Tube
Number of Channels 2
Phantom Power Yes
Compressor Yes
Other Processing Aux. Input EQ
Frequency Response 10Hz-22kHz
Analog Inputs 2 x XLR (Mic), 2 x XLR (Line), 1 x 1/4" (Aux)
Analog Outputs 2 x XLR
Other I/O 2 x 1/4" (+4dBu Insert), 2 x 1/4" (-10dBu Insert), 2 x 1/4" (+4dBu Side Chain)
Rack Spaces 2U
Height 3.5"
Depth 9.84"
Width 19"
Weight 13.23 lbs.

FAQs

What type of preamp does the Drawmer 1960 use?

The Drawmer 1960 uses a tube preamp, which is known for providing warm and rich sound characteristics, ideal for vocals and instruments.

How many channels does the Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp have?

The Drawmer 1960 features two channels, allowing for stereo processing or the simultaneous use of two separate audio sources.

Does the Drawmer 1960 provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Drawmer 1960 includes phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones that require external power.

Can the Drawmer 1960 be used as a direct input box for instruments?

Yes, the Drawmer 1960 functions as a DI box, allowing instruments like electric guitars and basses to be directly connected for recording.

What are the connectivity options available on the Drawmer 1960?

The Drawmer 1960 offers multiple connectivity options, including XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs, making it versatile for various studio setups.

Is the Drawmer 1960 suitable for rack mounting in a studio setup?

Yes, the Drawmer 1960 is designed to fit into a standard 19-inch rack, occupying 2U of rack space, making it convenient for studio integration.

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Video thumbnail for Drawmer 1970 Dual Fet Compressor & Preamp - Gearslutz @ NAMM 2020 by Gearspace Forum

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Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional warmth and clarity for acoustic instruments and electric piano

  • Can be used as an external plugin to enhance recordings

  • Compressor provides unmatched quality

  • Easy to use with a noticeable "sweet spot" for recording

  • Adds a unique "sparkle" and warmth without coloring sound negatively

  • Versatile: works great for both mono and stereo recordings

  • Improves the intimacy and warmth of recorded projects significantly

CONS

  • Vocals might require a different character; not the best for vocal recordings

  • EQ adjustments are limited to the aux input, not available for mic inputs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp.

Use cases and applications

  • The Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp's preamp circuit is often overlooked but provides unique tonal characteristics for recording, available at relatively low prices around $800.

    Source
  • The Drawmer 1960's tube preamp and compressor combination is recommended for those interested in vintage-style tube warmth, complementing ribbon mics such as the Royer 121.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Drawmer 1969 is preferred over the 1960 for its sidechain feature in the compressor, although both models offer strong performance in studio settings.

    Source
  • While the Creamer from Sonic Farms offers extensive impedance settings and versatility, the Drawmer 1960 provides a simpler, yet distinct tube personality for those seeking character-driven sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite being a lesser-known brand now, Drawmer gear, including the 1960, is considered a sleeper hit, offering great value in the used market.

    Source
  • It's suggested that investment in high-quality preamps like the Drawmer 1960 is more beneficial than modifying existing gear, as it adds significant value to the recording chain.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Drawmer 1960 is noted for its versatile preamp and compressor combination, making it a valuable tool in varied studio applications.

    Source
  • The Drawmer 1960 is noted for its distinct personality, particularly when used with tube-based audio setups, offering unique tonal characteristics for acoustic guitar, vocals, and drum overheads.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of Drawmer products express satisfaction, highlighting the brand's consistent quality, though noting its current under-the-radar status compared to its past prominence.

    Source
  • Owners emphasize the importance of trusting personal auditory preference when evaluating preamps, suggesting hands-on testing with familiar equipment to ensure satisfaction with the Drawmer 1960.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Pat Mastelotto uses Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp

Pat Mastelotto

Drummer

King Crimson

...
Verified via Modern Drummer Magazine

"At home I do most of my mixing in the box–that’s to say, inside Pro Tools. For serious mixing I go off campus. On the input side I have a few nice pre-amps like Amek, Neve, API, Daking, and the underrated Drawmer 1960. And for overflow I have several Mackies (32×8, 1604, 1202) and a few Presonus pre’s."

See how Paco Huidobro uses Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp

Paco Huidobro

Guitarist, Composer

Fobia

...
Verified via Photo

In a video, Paco Huidobro is shown owning an Drawmer 1960 Compressor in a rack, as evidenced by an image captured by Guitar Gear. (https://youtu.be/aylD5VBmqdE?t=1641)

See how Jason van Wyk uses Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp

Jason van Wyk

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Headphone Commute

Jason mentions his custom modefied Drawmer 1960 in this interview for HeadphoneCommute.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Drawmer 1960 Compressor & Mic Preamp, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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2
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2

Community setups

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ryan_kay

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