UK-based Drawmer, a manufacturer of audio processing hardware and software, is now shipping two new HQ Series units: the HQ-r, a wired remote controller that can drive single or multiple HQ units simultaneously; and the HQ-b, a remotely controllable HQ module that lacks the front-panel controls of the original device, and is designed exclusively for control via the new HQ Remote.

More than just a point and click remote control, the HQ-r extends the HQ's functionality, making it even better suited to use in critical listening environments, Drawmer says. The HQ Remote adds a mono / stereo switch, user-defined volume level presets, a digital master volume display, and Mute and "intelligent" (level-dependent) Dim controls. The new remote can also act as a master volume controller for multiple linked HQ units, permitting the creation of a 5.1 surround master volume control system that incorporates all the benefits of Drawmer's preamp and D-A conversion technology.

When the HQ Remote is plugged in, a red status LED illuminates; the HQ front-panel controls are disabled; and all volume, muting, and source-switching functions can be carried out from the HQ-r. The remote's large illuminated volume control takes over the duties of the HQ's front-panel knob, and the input audio source is determined by nine backlit push-buttons, one for each of the HQ's five digital connections (AES, S/PDIF, AES3, TosLink, USB). It has four analog stereo inputs (balanced XLRs, two auxiliary line inputs, and a further aux line input with a switchable RIAA for vinyl replay, which allows you to directly connect a turntable without the need for an external preamp).

A trio of speaker selection buttons allow you to switch between the HQ's two sets of speaker connections, A and B, or drive both sets simultaneously, making instant monitor switching simple for mix referencing purposes.

Additional mute and mono buttons enhance the HQ's capabilities, the dim control reduces playback volume by an amount dependent on the current output level, and the digital volume display gives a gain readout accurate to within half a decibel. Two user-defined volume level presets may also be accessed via the P1 and P2 buttons, for comparison of output levels in mastering studios and other environments where accuracy is crucial.

Weighing less than two pounds, the HQ Remote allows access to all the functions of the HQ Pre-Amp / DAC, plus many more, all from a solid, compact desktop unit.

Drawmer is now shipping its new HQ-r and HQ-b. For more details, visit drawmer.com.