Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $125

Standard/Professional

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* 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

The Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter is a versatile tool designed for both studio recording and live sound applications. Known for its unique 'Auto' attack and release controls, this compressor/limiter offers superior dynamic control without the hassle of constant tweaking. Whether you're looking to smooth out vocals, tighten up drum tracks, or control instrument levels, the DL221 delivers consistent performance with remarkable transparency.

This dual-channel processor is equipped with a comprehensive set of features that make it a staple in professional audio setups. The DL221's side-chain access allows for external triggering, making it ideal for applications like de-essing and ducking. Additionally, it includes peak limiter capabilities, ensuring that signal levels remain in check and preventing unwanted distortion. The unit’s intuitive layout, including LED gain reduction metering, ensures ease of use for both seasoned audio engineers and newcomers alike.

With its robust build and reliable performance, the Drawmer DL221 promises durability and consistent results, making it a valuable addition to any audio engineer’s toolkit.

Key Features:

  • Two-channel compressor/limiter for versatile applications
  • Unique 'Auto' attack and release controls for seamless dynamic management
  • Side-chain access for external triggering
  • Peak limiter to prevent distortion
  • LED gain reduction metering for easy monitoring
  • Intuitive interface suitable for professionals and beginners alike

Product specs

Brand Drawmer
Model DL221 Dual Compressor Limiter
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Categories Compressors and Limiters
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Format 19-inch Rackmount
Number of Analog Inputs 2
Number of Analog Outputs 2
Number of Channels 2

FAQs

What type of compression does the Drawmer DL221 offer?

The Drawmer DL221 provides smooth, transparent compression suitable for a variety of audio sources. Its solid-state design ensures reliable performance with minimal coloration to the sound.

How many channels does the Drawmer DL221 have?

The Drawmer DL221 is a dual-channel compressor/limiter, allowing you to process two separate audio signals simultaneously.

Is the Drawmer DL221 suitable for live sound applications?

Yes, the Drawmer DL221's robust design and transparent compression make it suitable for both studio and live sound applications.

What are the connectivity options for the Drawmer DL221?

The Drawmer DL221 features two analog inputs and two analog outputs, offering flexibility for integrating into various audio setups.

Can the Drawmer DL221 be used for both vocals and instruments?

Yes, the Drawmer DL221 is versatile and can be effectively used to compress both vocal and instrumental tracks, maintaining clarity and dynamics.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter.

Features and functionality

  • Some users recommend using two compressors in series: one for gentle compression and the second as a hard limiter to handle extreme peaks.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Setting the release time as long as feasible can help reduce the squashed sound from high gain reduction.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Boosting high frequencies in the sidechain can help address issues where the compressor doesn't effectively catch high-end signals.

    Source
  • High-passing vocals is advised to prevent low frequencies from prematurely triggering compression and to enhance clarity and feedback control.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Custom cable soldering may be necessary to creatively route signals into the sidechain input for better control over compression.

    Source

3.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Liam Howlett uses Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter

Liam Howlett

Music Producer

The Prodigy

...
Verified via Theprodigy

Liam Howlett, the mastermind behind The Prodigy, utilizes the Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter in his studio setup, as detailed on TheProdigy.info. This industry-standard compressor/limiter, known for its straightforward design and reliability since the mid-80s, features dual mono/stereo capabilities, side chain inputs, and a preset peak limiter. While the LED metering might not always be perfectly precise, the unit remains a staple in professional audio processing, offering controls for attack, release, threshold, ratio, and gain. The DL221 is valued for its solid-state construction and performance specifications, including a wide bandwidth and low distortion.

See how Daniel Miller uses Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter

Daniel Miller

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

In an article on Sound On Sound, Daniel Miller is listed as using the Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter in his studio setup.

See how Jody Wisternoff uses Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter

Jody Wisternoff

Music Producer

Way Out West

...
Verified via YouTube

can be spotted at 17:40 in this tour

See how Meat Beat Manifesto uses Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter

Meat Beat Manifesto

Music Producer

The Orb vs. Meat Beat Manifesto

...
Verified via Muzines

In a 1993 interview featured in Music Magazine Archive, Meat Beat Manifesto discusses their use of the Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter.

See how Tayte Nickols uses Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter

Tayte Nickols

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Do You Really Need A Big Studio To Make Great Records? Studio Tour with Tayte Nickols," produced by Produce Like A Pro, Tayte Nickols is seen at the 10:00 mark demonstrating the use of a Drawmer DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter, which is connected to a Neve 88M USB audio interface.

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 DL221 Two Channel Compressor/Limiter, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Drawmer DS201
Drawmer DS201 Effects Processors
3
Akai S1100
Akai S1100 Audio Samplers
2
Alesis Quadraverb
Alesis Quadraverb Effects Processors
2
Korg Wavestation
Korg Wavestation Synthesizers
2
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb Effects Processors
2
BSS Audio DPR-402
BSS Audio DPR-402 Effects Processors
2
Roland R-8M
Roland R-8M Drum Machines
1
EMS Synthi AKS
EMS Synthi AKS Synthesizers
1
E-mu E6400 Ultra
E-mu E6400 Ultra Audio Samplers
1

More Drawmer Effects Processors

Drawmer 1961

$2,195.00 - $2,499.00

 
D.Ramirez
1 artist using

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Similar

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    twisted
    twisted

    Gear IQ 556