Sound Pure's Take

The Drawmer MQ2 (Microphone Equaliser) is a classic 1U dual-channel microphone preamplifier and analog tone-shaping unit designed by the respected British manufacturer Drawmer. Developed to bridge the gap between ultra-clean preamplification and rapid, intuitive frequency sculpting, the MQ2 combines low-noise microphone preamps with Drawmer’s uniquely contoured parametric equalizer sections, tailored specifically for tracking vocals, acoustic instruments, and electric guitar.

Unlike standard channel strips that feature complex, multi-knob EQ layouts, the MQ2 incorporates Drawmer's specialized equalization architecture. This includes sweepable low-cut filters alongside intuitive mid and high frequency controls designed to quickly polish problematic room modes, eliminate sibilance, or add broad analog air before digital conversion. Combined with phase reverse, switchable $+48\text{V}$ phantom power, variable pad controls, and transformer-balanced outputs, the MQ2 stands out as a musical tracking front-end with distinctive British character.

The Drawmer MQ2 is a highly capable, musically voiced dual mic preamp and equalizer for engineers seeking classical British analog character with streamlined control. Whether capturing stereo acoustic arrays or dialing in polished lead vocals on the way in, the MQ2 provides reliable gain, smooth EQ curves, and studio-grade audio fidelity.

From Drawmer

Taking inspiration from the legendary 'Motown EQ', the MQ-1 is a single channel 7 band proportional Q parametric Equaliser with EQ curves akin to the renowned EQ's used in the illustrious Detroit studios in the 1960's. This 100% analogue EQ, features 7 bell curves, each having a variable cut/boost of ±10dB and set at the beautifully musical frequencies of the original.

But it doesn’t stop there, in addition it incorporates the highly regarded 'CRUSH' feature present on the Drawmer 1971. When you activate the crush circuit, get ready for some pleasing harmonic saturation and that classic analogue warmth that adds a ton of character to any signal passing through the unit. The result? It fattens up the bass, adds presence to the mids, and brings a delightful shimmer to the top end. The harder you drive the EQ the more Crush you’ l l get! Designed and manufactured in England, this is THE classic warm analogue sound you've been looking for.

  • Stereo 7 band proportional Q parametric Equaliser for 500 series .
  • Inspired by the 1960's Motown EQ .
  • Integrated 'CRUSH' feature that warms up your mix with harmonic saturation.
  • Fully variable 10dB boost or cut
  • Hard wired bypass.
  • Designed and manufactured in the U.K.

General

Input Input Impedance: 20 Kilohms Maximum Input Level: +16 dBu
Output Output Impedance: <100 Ohms
Frequency Response 20 Hz to 20 kHz, +/-0.5 dB
THD + N 0.01%, at 1 kHz ref 0 dBu
Noise -80 dB, at Unity Gain

Power

Power Source Proprietary Interface

Physical

Mounting 2x 500 Series Rack
Color Black
Weight 1.2 lb / 540 g

Packaging Info

Package Weight 1.445 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) 9.6 x 6.4 x 3.6"
Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.

$460