Lexicon 224 Digital Reverb — Free Download

Authentic Reproduction

This plug-in is a meticulous emulation of the original Lexicon 224 Digital Reverb, built using the exact algorithms and control processor code from the hardware. It is based on the final firmware version 4.4, which includes all eight legendary reverb programs and a chorus program. The emulation also incorporates the input transformers and the early 12-bit gain stepping AD/DA converters from the original unit.

To achieve full authenticity, the plug-in includes a UA-exclusive System Noise control. This feature enables or disables the modeled dynamic system noise of the hardware, including gain stepping, parameter zippering, and quiescent noise. This attention to detail ensures that users can recreate the exact character of the original unit, including its imperfections.

Full Control and Hidden Features

Every parameter from the original hardware is available in the plug-in, presented as dedicated sliders and buttons. The distinctive Bass and Mid split decay adjustments, along with the Crossover control, allow for detailed shaping of the reverb image. Other controls include Treble Decay for high-frequency roll-off, Depth to adjust the distance between source and reverb, Predelay for a short delay before reverberation, and Diffusion to control echo density buildup.

Clicking the Open text next to the display panel reveals hidden controls. These include Input and Output gain, Pitch Shift, and a selectable Bug Fix mode. This mode enables or disables historical bug fixes from the Hall B and Chorus programs, offering further flexibility and authenticity for users who want to match specific hardware behaviors.

Workflow Flexibility

The Lexicon 224 plug-in is designed to integrate seamlessly into modern production workflows. It is available in both UAD Native and Apollo Realtime/UAD-2 versions, allowing users to work with any audio interface. This dual compatibility ensures that the plug-in can be used for tracking or mixing in a variety of studio setups, from native-only environments to Apollo-based systems.

The plug-in includes presets from famous Lexicon 224 users, such as Chuck Zwicky (Prince) and Kevin Killen (Peter Gabriel). These presets provide starting points for achieving signature sounds. The tactile slider-based interface mirrors the original hardware, making navigation intuitive for users familiar with the unit and accessible for new users.

Practical Applications

The eight reverb programs cover a wide range of sonic textures, making the plug-in suitable for various instruments. The Plate and Concert programs are ideal for creating vintage ’80s sounds, while other programs can be applied to drums, vocals, guitars, and more. The chorus program adds depth and movement to tracks, further expanding the creative possibilities.

With its precise emulation and flexible controls, this plug-in is suitable for both tracking and mixing. Engineers can use it to add lush, characteristic reverb to individual tracks or entire mixes. The ability to toggle system noise and bug fixes allows for both clean and gritty sounds, catering to different production styles and genres.

Key features

• Exact emulation using original hardware algorithms and firmware 4.4
• Eight classic reverb programs and one chorus program
• Includes modeled input transformers and 12-bit gain stepping converters
• System Noise control for enabling/disabling hardware noise
• Hidden controls for gain, pitch shift, and Bug Fix mode
• Available in UAD Native and Apollo Realtime/UAD-2 versions
• Presets from renowned Lexicon 224 users

Best for

This plug-in is perfect for producers and engineers seeking authentic vintage reverb. It excels at adding lush, characterful space to drums, vocals, and guitars, particularly for recreating ’80s tones. The flexible controls and presets make it a valuable tool for both tracking and mixing in modern DAWs.