3
DRAWMER
DSL424 O
PERATOR’S
M
ANUA
L
DRAWMER
DSL424
TWOPLUSTWO DYNAMICS
The DSL424 provides the engineer with a 1U four channel
comprehensive toolbox capable of solving the most
complex dynamic problems. Incorporated in the 1U
package are two industry standard frequency conscious
noise gates and two soft/hard knee compressors with
variable threshold limiting. The channels may be front panel
configured as four individual stand alone processors, a
stereo linked pair of comp/limiters with a stereo linked
pair of gates. Alternatively, any combination of processing
can be achieved by rear panel patching.
The DSL424 combines the gates of the DS404 with the
compressor/limiters of the DL441 to provide a versatile 1U
problem solver invaluable in applications where rack space
is limited.
Recognizing that there are many general applications
which require equipment that is simple to operate, Drawmer
have designed the noise gate stages of the DSL424 utilizing
‘Programme Adaptive’ circuitry. This makes the DSL424
ideally suited for use over a wide range of input signals,
ranging from drums and other percussive instruments
through to vocals, pianos and even complete mixes.
The provision of variable Low-Pass and High-Pass Filters
allows ‘without compromise’ frequency selective gating
with a KEY LISTEN facility enabling monitoring of the filter
setting.
Each gate channel can be operated as HARD - offering
ultra-fast response time, stable triggering and a specialized
release contour which is ideally suited to percussive
material or SOFT - a versatile Expander capable of handling
vocals and sub mixes.
Noise Gate
• Variable High/Low Pass Filters for frequency triggering
• Auto attack
• Variable release
• Switchable range with LED status
• Selectable ‘Hard’ (drums etc.) or ‘Soft’ (vocals etc.)
• 1/4 inch jack Key Inputs
• Key Listen facility
• Slave linking
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
The compressor section features a highly developed, auto
attack/release system which adapts itself to the
programme material being processed and is equally
effective on individual sounds or complex mixes.
To maximise flexibility, each channel of the DSL424 is
switchable between traditional ratio (hard knee) and
soft-knee operation. Traditionally, soft-knee compressors
are preferable for unobtrusive level control or for the control
of finished mixes, whereas ratio type compressors are
generally considered more successful in creative
applications or where large amounts of gain reduction are
required. By offering a choice of both modes, the DSL424
is capable of outstanding results in a very wide range of
studio and live sound situations. The two channels may
be operated independently or linked for true stereo
operation.
Also included in each channel of the DSL424 is a peak
limiter which allows the user to set an absolute output
signal level that will not be exceeded. If the peak limiter
threshold is exceeded for more than a few milliseconds,
additional gain reduction will be applied to reduce the overall
signal level to within accepted limits without distortion.
Once the peak has passed, the system gain will return to
normal after a period of about one second. This facility is
extremely valuable both in live sound applications, for driver
protection, and in digital recording where an absolute
maximum recording level exists. Furthermore, when
deliberately overdriven, it can be used creatively to produce
level “pumping” effects which can be useful on electric
guitar or rock vocal sounds.
Compressor/Limiter
• Switchable Hard/Soft knee compression with variable
threshold, ratio and output gain
• Auto attack/release
• Variable ‘zero overshoot’ transparent limiter
• High resolution bargraph metering of gain reduction
and input/output level
• Stereo linking
• Ba4dB XLR in/out
