(R14) Peavey CDS 2 w/o Dual Channel Compressor Limiter De-esser (W383)

(No reviews yet) Write a Review

SKU:

R14 - OA-04503383

Shipping:

Calculated at Checkout

Description

Description

Please Call For Price

The Peavey CDS 2 is a vintage, budget-friendly dual-channel analog compressor, limiter, and de-esser rack unit released in the late 1980s or early 1990s. It was specifically engineered for entry-level home studios, bedroom recording setups, and small live sound rigs.

The "w/o" in secondhand gear listings stands for "without," which almost always means the seller is offering the unit without its original AC power supply or manual.

Core Technical Specifications & Features

Dual-Channel / Stereo Operation: The unit features two identical, independent channels that can be used to process two separate mono audio sources (like a vocal track and an acoustic guitar) or linked for unified stereo compression.
Simplified Analog Controls: Rather than offering fully variable attack and release knobs, it features a simplified 3-position attack/release switch. This dials in preset time-constants optimized for quick, everyday workflow adjustments.
Dedicated Built-In De-Esser: Each channel features an integrated de-esser circuit tuned tightly around 8 kHz. This makes it highly effective at catching and taming sibilant vocal peaks (harsh "S" and "T" sounds) before they hit your recording medium.
Integrated Downward Expander: The unit includes a built-in downward expander circuit. This function automatically keeps background noise and system hiss under control when you dial in heavy compression ratios.
Operating Signal Levels: The CDS 2 was primarily designed for the -10dBV signal level common to consumer-grade gear, tape machines, and early Audio Media Research (AMR) multi-track cassette setups. While it can process pro-level +4dBu line signals, doing so requires careful gain management to prevent premature clipping and overload.

This unit requires a ~16V AC power transformer rather than a standard DC adapter.

While the actual circuit only draws roughly 100 mA, original Peavey/AMR wall warts were heavy-duty 1 Amp supplies. Furthermore, Peavey frequently utilized specialized or uncommon pin-jack socket sizes during this era. Sourcing a replacement third-party 16V AC power supply with the correct barrel size can sometimes cost more than the vintage value of the compressor rack itself.

Does not come with power adapter or manuals.

View AllClose