Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor & Preamplifier". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash the full potential of your studio setup with the Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor & Preamplifier, an all-in-one powerhouse designed for both versatility and precision. Ideal for professionals and enthusiasts alike, this dual-mono or stereo unit takes inspiration from Drawmer's legendary 1960 series but elevates it with modern FET technology for a cleaner and more transparent sound. The THAT Corporation mic preamps provide up to 66dB of gain, offering you a pristine recording canvas that you can creatively color later with your choice of saturation, tubes, or transformers.

The 1970 is equipped with a dynamic array of controls and features to shape your sound to perfection. Its intuitive compressor section includes standard controls like threshold, ratio, attack, and release, but also offers unique features like "Big" and "Air" modes to tailor your low- and high-frequency response. Whether you're looking to capture the subtle nuances of a vocal performance or add punch to a drum track, the Drawmer 1970's parallel compression capabilities make it a breeze to achieve professional-grade results.

With separate XLR inputs for mic and line signals, a high-quality DI input, and a versatile sidechain circuit, the 1970 is engineered for maximum flexibility and creativity. Plus, its rugged steel chassis and aluminum front panel ensure that it can withstand the demands of any studio environment.

Key Features:

  • Dual mic preamps with 66dB of gain from THAT Corporation
  • Switchable mic impedance and phantom power
  • High-quality instrument DI input with 2-band EQ and bright switch
  • Threshold, ratio, attack, release, and program-dependent release controls
  • "Big" and "Air" modes for low- and high-frequency enhancement
  • Variable wet/dry mix knobs for internal parallel compression
  • Backlit analog VU meters with switchable +10dB rescale mode
  • Time delay relays for clean power transitions
  • Rugged steel chassis and intuitive aluminum front panel design
  • Designed and handcrafted by Drawmer in the UK

Owner's manual

Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor & Preamplifier User Manual

Product specs

Preamp Type FET Compressor & Preamp
Number of Channels 2 x mic, 1 x instrument
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz (±0.5dB)
Phantom Power Yes
EQ Highpass Filter, 2-band EQ (instrument)
Compressor Threshold 20dB to -40dB
Compressor Ratio 1:1 to 10:1
Analog Inputs 2 x XLR (mic), 2 x XLR (line), 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z)
Analog Outputs 2 x XLR
Other I/O 2 x 1/4" (side chain 1/2)
Rackmount Spaces 2U
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Height 3.46"
Depth 10.6"
Width 19"
Weight 9.2 lbs.

FAQs

What type of preamp does the Drawmer 1970 use?

The Drawmer 1970 uses a FET compressor and preamp design, offering a versatile and dynamic sound suitable for various recording applications.

How many channels does the Drawmer 1970 support?

The Drawmer 1970 supports two microphone channels and one instrument channel, providing flexibility for different input sources.

Does the Drawmer 1970 provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Drawmer 1970 includes phantom power, making it compatible with condenser microphones.

What are the main connectivity options for the Drawmer 1970?

The Drawmer 1970 features 2 x XLR mic inputs, 2 x XLR line inputs, 1 x 1/4" Hi-Z input, and 2 x XLR outputs, accommodating various studio setups.

What EQ options does the Drawmer 1970 offer?

The Drawmer 1970 includes a highpass filter and a 2-band EQ specifically for the instrument input, allowing for tonal shaping and control.

MixbusTv

MixbusTv

Best Affordable Stereo Preamp and Compressor Drawmer 1970

Video thumbnail for Best Affordable Stereo Preamp and Compressor Drawmer 1970 by MixbusTv

Best Affordable Stereo Preamp and Compressor Drawmer 1970

MixbusTv

MixbusTv

Video thumbnail for Analog Compressors Deathmatch: Distressor LA2A LA3A 609 Successor,  Drawmer 1970 on Vocals REUPLOAD by MixbusTv

Analog Compressors Deathmatch: Distressor LA2A LA3A 609 Successor, Drawmer 1970 on Vocals REUPLOAD

MixbusTv

MixbusTv

Video thumbnail for Drawmer 1970 - NAMM 2020 by Sound On Sound magazine

Drawmer 1970 - NAMM 2020

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor & Preamp at Winter NAMM 2020 by Sweetwater

Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor & Preamp at Winter NAMM 2020

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

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

Drawmer 1970 Dual Fet Compressor & Preamp - Gearslutz @ NAMM 2020

Gearspace Forum

Gearspace Forum

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptionally clean and musical preamps, even at high gain levels

  • Highly effective and versatile FET compressor for diverse transient sources

  • EQ section excels at enhancing specific frequencies for various instruments

  • DI input offers excellent sound for acoustic guitars and bass

  • Compressor's "big/air" functions add high-end sparkle and warmth

  • Durable performance with no noise, even when pushed to the limits

  • Features stereo linking for use as a buss compressor

  • Sidechain functionality with EQ or other signal inputs

  • Excellent value for the range of features and sound quality

CONS

  • On/off switch inconveniently located at the back

  • Buttons and VU meters feel less robust compared to high-end brands

Critic Reviews

Drawmer: 1970 Dual F.E.T. Compressor & Pre-Amplifier | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor & Preamplifier offers a robust blend of versatility and ease-of-use, excelling in various recording scenarios—from tracking to mixing. Its clean mic preamps and thoughtful design, including handy features like impedance switching and stereo linking, make it a studio workhorse. However, while many will appreciate its transparent sound, some might find it lacks character compared to tube-based units. Priced at $1,497, it delivers exceptional value for a unit that covers so many bases, although purists may desire a bit more warmth. Overall, it's a fantastic choice for those seeking to enhance their recording setup without breaking the bank.

positive

Review: Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor and Pre-Amplifier - Mixonline

mixonline.com

The Drawmer 1970 Dual FET Compressor and Preamplifier is a versatile studio powerhouse, expertly crafted with solid-state circuitry that enhances flexibility and sound quality. Its robust features, including dual independent channels and customizable input impedances, cater to a wide range of audio sources, making it a valuable tool for both recording and mixing. However, the Output Link function could use refinement, which may frustrate users looking for seamless stereo operation. Overall, while it excels in delivering clean, transparent compression, slight design oversights leave room for improvement.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

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

More Drawmer Channel Strips

MILLENNIA STT1

$3,701.87 - $4,050.00

# 11

Rank

Martin Buttrich
1 artist using
SPL Track One

$1,199.00 - $1,399.00

# 21

Rank

 

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar