- great sounding algorithmic reverbs based on a Lexicon classic.
- there are some nice creative parameters.
- this plugin only runs on OSX 10.7(Lion) and above or Windows 7 and above.
This is not the first time Native Instruments has ventured into the reverb plugin territory. A few years ago they released Reflektor, a pretty comprehensive bundle of convolution reverbs. One of the annoying things about that one though is that is needed to be hosted within the Guitar Rig shell.
The RC 24 and RC 48 are both algorithmic reverbs, not convolution, and are based on the classic Lexicon units form the 70’s and 80’s.
The RC 48 is based on the Lexicon 480L from 1986. I have never used the original unit and I probably wasn’t expecting to like this plugin. After using it though, I am quite impressed.
The RC 48 has only 2 different types of algorithms: Hall and Random Hall. Unlike the RC 24, there are no bright or dark settings for the halls and there is no modulation control.
It’s still got the Predelay and EQ settings like the RC 24, but adds a Shape control linked with the Spread control to determine the sculpt the buildup of the reverb over time. The Size control adjusts the overall size of the space and in ‘reverb mode’ is connected to the Shape/Spread and the Mid controls keeping the sound more natural. In ‘effect mode’ these parameters are independent of each other allowing for some creative unnatural sounds. There are some nice presets to get you started.
There is also an interesting Pre Echoes tab on the interface allowing you add in and move around up to 6 echoes into the signal. Very cool stuff there.
The Diffusion knob adjusts the clarity and buildup of the early reflection and the RevDamp control adjusts the cutoff of the high frequency dampening. The RevDamp is different from the HiCut in that it only affects the reverb signal whereas the HiCut affects the whole signal including the Pre Echoes.
One of the main features of the interface is the Spectrum display. It visually shows you the ‘shape’ of the reverb tail and with ‘Realtime Audio Analysis’ selected it shows the input signal intensity travelling through the cloud.
Like I said, I wasn’t really expecting to like this because for me, Lexicon brings up thoughts of colder & digital sounding reverbs. This however sounds really smooth and very usable. There are some great creative effects type settings which sets the RC 48 apart from the RC 24. They each have a particularly unique flavour.
I will definitely be using this.
The RC 48 captures the versatile, luxurious sound of a true studio legend. Featured on countless game, TV, and film soundtracks and even more gold and platinum records, this sound has helped shape two decades of popular music.
Modeled by the experts at Softube, this detailed, musical, and easy-to-use reverb effect captures the essence of the original, adding sparkle and depth to everything it touches, and bringing your tracks to life.
The RC 48 consists of two stunning algorithms. Easy to master, the RC 48’s six intuitive sliders control the same parameters in both algorithms. As well as Size, Diffusion and Spread controls let you precisely shape the reverb tail.
The Random Hall algorithm features Spin and Wander controls for creating random movement with incredibly lively and natural tails. And for advanced sound design, use the Effect setting to create intriguing and inspiring modulation effects.
You’ve never seen anything like this before. Both REVERB CLASSICS feature a revolutionary display that lets you see the ‘shape’ and intensity of the reverb’s acoustic footprint, for real-time visual feedback.
Tweak your sound to perfection – the display reacts instantly. Now you can easily transform the shape and texture of reverb tails with a whole new dimension of control. Get instant pro sound in the blink of an eye – no expertise necessary.
