Drawmer DC2496 is a high-resolution analogue to digital converter designed for demanding professional recording, mastering, and broadcast applications. Released in 2000, Drawmer DC2496 combines precision conversion with extensive digital interfacing, monitoring, and signal management capabilities, making it far more than a conventional A/D converter. It was engineered to address the limitations of earlier digital systems by supporting higher sample rates and improved clocking accuracy, while also providing flexible routing and backup options for complex digital recording environments.
At its core, Drawmer DC2496 features 24-bit analogue to digital conversion with support for sample rates up to 96kHz, delivering wide bandwidth, reduced filter artefacts, and improved transient accuracy. Balanced analogue XLR inputs are paired with comprehensive digital connectivity, including AES/EBU, S/PDIF, ADAT optical, and TDIF, allowing the unit to integrate seamlessly into both stereo and multitrack digital systems. The design enables simultaneous high-resolution recording and lower-resolution backup, ensuring secure capture in critical recording situations.
Beyond conversion, Drawmer DC2496 functions as a sophisticated digital interface and signal management hub. Built-in sample rate conversion allows high-resolution recordings to be reduced to standard CD formats with appropriate bit reduction and noise-shaped dithering. A dual time-constant stereo limiter permits controlled gain increases of up to +18dB without clipping, making it possible to maximise recording levels while preserving signal integrity. Comprehensive metering provides clear visual feedback in both digital and analogue reference scales, aiding accurate level management.
Clocking accuracy is central to the performance of Drawmer DC2496. Dual PLL circuitry minimises jitter, while extensive word clock input and output options allow the unit to operate as either clock master or slave within larger digital systems. Separate word sync selection for different digital formats ensures reliable synchronisation across a wide range of configurations. Additional practical features, such as built-in test tone generators and clearly indicated rear-panel signal status LEDs, further enhance usability in professional studio and broadcast installations.
Features
- 24-bit analogue to digital conversion with sample rates up to 96kHz
- Balanced analogue XLR inputs and outputs
- AES/EBU, S/PDIF, ADAT optical, and TDIF digital connectivity
- Simultaneous high-resolution recording with lower-resolution backup
- Integrated sample rate conversion with bit reduction and noise-shaped dither
- Dual time-constant stereo limiter with up to +18dB gain
- High-resolution stereo metering with peak hold
- Dual PLL clocking with extensive word clock options
- Built-in test tone generators for system setup and troubleshooting