Softube Drawmer 1973 Review | Reviewer's Revival

Softube Drawmer 1973 [Exciting Reveal] Review

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Since 2003, our favorite Swedish “Rock n’ Roll Scientists” at SOFTUBE have capably established themselves as uncontested experts in the field of analogue-gear modeling. “Drawmer 1973”, and its simplified little brother, “S73”, are yet two more finely crafted examples of Softube’s well-deserved reputation as leaders in their field. This time ‘round, they focused their attention on   Ivor Drawmer ’ s  modern-classic, FET multi-band mastering compressor --the “Drawmer 1973”. You may correctly assume that the resultant product is officially approved by the man himself.

Unlike some of Softube’s other analogue-modelled fare, “Drawmer 1973” is not actually a piece of vintage kit. That said, the “1973” *is a FET design which automatically propels it into the classic, vintage-ish sound category. Drawing from its valve powered predecessor, the “S3” (No puns intended), the “1973” has quickly gained recognition as a superb, mastering-grade, multi-band stereo compressor. Fortunately, it is available at a more affordable price point --this is due in part to a completely new gain-cell design that hasn’t been used on any of Ivor Drawmer’s previous compressors. Sounds spectacular *and* is more affordable!? What’s not to love . . .

I can honestly say, right from the ‘get go’, that this processor is one of the best multi-band compressor plug-ins that I’ve ever used; however, it doesn’t exactly come cheap. At the time of this publication, the MSRP listed on Softube’s web site is a healthy $225 (USD). The good news is that this is $25 less than the year before. Pssst . . . If you’re a keen shopper, Softube does offer good sales every once in a while. *Wink.

Compressors of all sorts are becoming “a dime a dozen” now-a-days; what could capture the average home or small studio engineer’s interest enough to make them willing to invest in yet another plug-in? Stick n’ stay – hang out with yours truly for a few minutes, and let’s find out why the Softube Drawmer 1973 is a worthy consideration.

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