Top 6 Lexicon Plugins 2024 (Various Effects)

In the ever-evolving world of digital music production, staying up-to-date with the latest and most excellent tools is essential. Lexicon plugins are some of the most popular software tools used by producers and engineers for creating a vast array of effects for their mix.

This article will look at the top 6 Lexicon plugins that have been making waves this past year. From reverb and delay to the spatial enhancement and overdrive distortion, these Lexicon plugins provide a full range of audio effects for any genre of music.

1. Relab Development LX480

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Get convenient access to the same luscious space of a classic hardware reverb used in many hit albums.

The esteemed Lexicon 480L digital reverb has long been a secret weapon of many artists worldwide. It is almost the standard of reverb processing.

Initially introduced in 1986, the famous hardware has been used in multiple chart-topping recordings by artists like John Lennon, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, U2, Stevie Wonder, etc.

The plugin provides many of the algorithms from the original hardware in an intuitive and familiar user interface. Whether you’re looking for a lush, lingering hall for a string section or a bright plate reverb to make the snare slam a little more complicated, the LX480 Complete delivers.

Furthermore, it features many presets that help you get started as soon as you have opened the plugin.

Key Features:

• Algorithms:

LX480 Complete provides many of the algorithms from the Lexicon 480L hardware. Each algorithm uses an intricate system under the hood to emulate various spaces. However, I suggest selecting the one you need based on their character rather than learning how the algorithm works. Let’s have a look at the algorithms:

• Hall:

This algorithm emulates the effect of reverberation in real concert halls. So, it works best for acoustic instruments to glue multiple instruments together. It provides early reflections and reverb controls.

• Plate:

The Plate algorithm is designed to sound like a traditional plate reverb. These are commonly used on percussive sounds because they have a high initial diffusion and a vivid, colored tail compared to other algorithms. Plate reverb frequently acts as if it were a part of the music itself, thickening and mellowing the original recording.

• Room:

As opposed to the Hall algorithm, the Room method simulates smaller spaces. It’s a sound employed in almost every aspect of music creation and video post-production.

• Twin Delays:

As the name suggests, this algorithm uses two stereo delay processors. It uses filtered feedback on both channels to generate a long reverb tail. Furthermore, cross-panning between the two channels helps create a wide stereo image.

• Random Hall:

The Random Hall algorithm is smoother, making it excellent for material that needs a massive space simulation or a long reverb. It has a model similar to the Hall algorithm but with random decay components and less metallic ringing.

• All HD:

This algorithm is the same concept as the previous one. However, it provides a more sophisticated reverb design, thanks to the higher processing power of the CPU nowadays. Changes include greater density, an advanced echo system, better low-frequency reverb, and more stable stereo imaging.

• Ambiance:

While other models add a distinct signal for the reverb, this algorithm provides a natural-sounding space to the audio without being intrusive. So, it’s ideal for adding a room effect to recorded music or speech. For example, it can add a convincing room ambiance to a studio-recorded dialog.

• Dual Engine:

The plugin features multiple modes that make the reverb sound like two reverbs in one. There are four routing modes: single, cascade, mono-split, and stereo-split. The single mode is the most common and easiest to handle.

However, the cascade sends the output of the first reverb engine to the second. Similarly, the mono-split mode independently adds a reverb on each stereo input channel. And the stereo split mode passes the stereo signal to both engines and combines the final output into a rich reverb effect.

• Presets:

The plugin provides a massive library of presets. These include the factory preset collection from the original hardware. Similarly, you’ll find it presets from the smaller and cheaper Essentials version of this reverb and the Lexicon PCM 91 compact reverb.

It’s handy if you are switching between the two versions. Furthermore, you’ll find many signatures presets by renowned artists and engineers: Joe Carrel, Matt Weiss, Peter Dowsett, Richard Furch, and Shy Keidar. Each preset demonstrates the capability of the Lexicon reverb model and helps you get started without much tweaking.

Compatibility:

This plugin runs on macOS 10.9 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows 7 or higher (64-bit only). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

Summary:

An excellent translation of a classic, ready to be used in your DAW and improve your mix. The design is very true to its vintage form and the configurations present.

Be it in the presets or the modes, the attention to detail is impressive. It’s just as good as the actual unit and much easier to acquire and maintain.

2. Universal Audio Lexicon 224

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

Lexicon 224 by Universal Audio is a plugin for your DAW which emulates the best-selling analog reverb manufactured by “Universal Audio” in the 1980s.

The Lexicon is undoubtedly a favorite digital reverb plugin among the sound engineers community. The interface is straightforward to use, and it uses less processing power. 

Key features:

• Dedicated Buttons:

You can choose between eight different types of reverbs using dedicated buttons. It offers the following simulations: Sm Hall B, Voc Plate, Lg Hall B, Chamber, PercPlare, Sm Hall A, Room PA, and ConstPlate.

• System Noise Button:

It offers a real-time hardware simulation by giving you a hiss in the audio after reverberation.

• Hold Switch:

The switch allows you to choose when the display holds the current value. You can choose between infinity and 1.5 seconds.

• The Mode Enhancement:

This controls the chorus effect. You can choose between different types of modes and decay settings.

• Crossover Fader:

You can control the reverb time for lows, mids, and highs separately. A crossover fader lets you choose a smooth crossover frequency between the lows and highs.

Compatibility:

Universal Audio Lexicon 224 is available for 32 & 64-bit Microsoft Windows 7 or above in AAX, VST, and Audio Unit formats and for macOS in AAX, VST, and Audio Unit formats.

Summary:

This emulation of the Lexicon 224 hardware-based reverb effectively gives a clean, transparent sound. The primary controls of this reverb are also easy to use. If, like me, you’ve always dreamed of using the actual Lexicon reverb, this is as close as you can get by spending a fraction of the actual price.

3. PSP Audioware Lexicon PSP 42

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Flanging, phasing, and tempo-locked feedback delay are among the many delay-based effects that can be generated by the Lexicon PSP 42.

By manipulating the delay time and pitch in real-time, the user can add subtle motion or swing to the processed signal or push the effects to extremes to create unpredictable alien sounds.

Lexicon PSP 42’s delay line sampling frequency is freely adjustable, making it an excellent tool for making lo-fi effects that sound smooth due to the superior characteristics of the employed interpolation algorithm. 

Key features:

• Logic Control Support:

The Lexicon PSP 42 is a powerful tool for DJs and music producers. It has a Logic Control Support feature that allows you to control your music with your computer. This feature is beneficial for those who want to create their custom mixes.

• Low-Pass Filter:

Its Low-pass filter absorbs high frequencies efficiently, allowing users to model different frequency responses and fine-tune the tonal results. It’s also great for finding an acoustic environment’s natural tone and shaping it dynamically according to user preferences.

Additionally, this filter can make broad strokes on sound treatments while progressively adding precision.

• Extensive Preset Library:

An extensive preset library featuring hundreds of industry-standard sounds makes it easy to find the sound you need quickly. You can easily customize the presets to get the exact sound you want – and it helps that most of them already come with several adjustment options available for tweaking.

• Modulation Section:

The Lexicon PSP 42 has a powerful Modulation section that can produce great sounds. You have three modulation signal sources (sinus, square, envelope detector) that you can mix in any proportion you like, giving you much control over the sound. This is an excellent feature for those who want to create unique sounds.

• Tight Synchronization:

Users can take advantage of the rock-solid synchronization to the host tempo and customize and adjust the tempo at their discretion. Adding percussion tracks and other detailed elements to a mix is easier and more accurate than ever.

Being able to sync with the host tempo ensures that all recorded elements are perfectly aligned from start to finish, giving your music the professional edge it needs.

Compatibility:

This plugin is compatible with macOS 10.5 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows XP or higher (64-bit and 32-bit). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

Summary:

Based on the renowned Lexicon PCM 42 processor, the Lexicon PSP 42 is a high-quality digital stereo delay and phrase sampler plugin with a sound all its own. The Lexicon PSP 42 has been developed to recreate the legendary classic’s adaptability and warmth.

This was achieved by implementing a precise tape saturation algorithm and a delay line operating at a variable sampling rate to mimic the physical properties of delays in older tape machines. The plugin was developed carefully to retain the highest possible signal quality throughout the processing chain.

4. Pro PCM Native Reverb (Hall, Vintage Plate, Plate, Room, Random Hall, Concert Hall, Chamber)

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The seven legendary Lexicon reverbs in this Bundle are Vintage Plate, Plate, Hall, Room, Random Hall, Concert Hall, and Chamber.

It features hundreds of flexible and carefully crafted studio presets, some instantly recognizable classics from Lexicon’s sound library, and all the flexibility you’d expect from a native plugin. 

Both mono and stereo modes, as well as mixed ones, are supported by each algorithm. Lexicon has included Input and Output Meters and a fully functional Equalizer. However, the most striking aspect is front and center in a real-time, multi-dimensional display.

You can shape your sound using the algorithm, and the three animated screens give you a look at it at various frequency stages.

Key features:

• Studio Preset Library:

The studio preset library from the Lexicon reverb bundle offers a remarkable array of choices for producers and engineers looking to add a touch of ‘sheen’ to their mixes.

Not only are the highly sought-after Lexicon classics here, but they also offer plenty of opportunities to tweak each sound to find that unique timbre. Suitable for all musical genres, this preset library reflects decades’ worth of reputation, perfect for anyone who wants to get more out of their mixes with inspiring custom sound design.

• Real-Time Graphic Display:

This bundle features a real-time graph display of parameters, allowing users to easily manipulate reverb effects in real-time. The intuitive graphical interface simplifies parameter selection while saving time when crafting reverb sounds.

• Complete Parameter Control and Automation:

The Lexicon reverb bundle gives users complete control and automation of various parameters. With the powerful preset system, this bundle allows you to customize your sound quickly.

You can tailor each output to fit your mix while the bundle’s onboard EQ, transformer-equipped inputs, smooth saturation options, and intelligent dithering processes give you limitless possibilities. 

• Input and Output Meters:

The lexicon reverb bundle is equipped with input and output meters, making it an incredibly versatile tool for audio production. This means the user can dial in the exact sound they want without spending hours tweaking levels or worrying about noise artifacts in their recordings.

The input meters are designed to detect signal levels directly from a microphone or other line/instrument-level source. The output meters provide accurate readings of what’s sent out of the system.

Compatibility:

This plugin is compatible with macOS 10.4 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows XP or higher (64-bit and 32-bit). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

Summary:

These seven legendary Lexicon reverbs come with hundreds of the most flexible and expertly crafted studio presets, many instantly recognizable classics from Lexicon’s vast sound library.

You can either use the preset as it has been meticulously crafted or make additional adjustments, compare them to the original, and then save your modified version. 

You can even import that preset into another digital audio workstation.

5. Native Instruments RC 24 By Softube

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

The RC24 emulates the sound of the original with a warm, endearing tone with just a touch of gritty edge. Large Hall, Small Hall, and Room emulation programs are available in RC24, and the software recreates the 12-bit converter sound of the original.

Adjusting the Depth parameter makes it seem like the listener is further back in the room. There is a noticeable reduction in the direct sound’s contribution as depth increases, with the reverb tail taking center stage.

The Bass and Mid decay parameters determine the reverb length while activating the quantization noise adds minor enharmonic noise components that are likely to be lost in a standard mix.

Key features:

• Bass and Mid Decay Parameters:

Bass and Mid decay parameters allow users to adjust the length of the reverb echoes to their taste. Furthermore, it also allows users to activate a quantization noise, which adds some subtle harmonic noise components that can give mixes an extra edge that may have otherwise been lost in other reverbs.

• Library of Presets:

The Native Instruments RC 24 By Softube has an extensive preset library for users to explore and get inspired. The variety of sounds allows producers to quickly find the perfect fit for their mix, from drum loops and chords to synth basslines and effects.

Whether you’re looking for a spark of creativity or a soundscape to guide your project, the possibilities are practically limitless with the selection available in RC 24 By Softube.

• Fader Controls:

You can fine-tune your sound with the intuitive fader controls for Pre-delay, Depth, and Intensity of modulation. This makes it easy to precisely adjust the level of each effect so that you can get exactly the sound you’re looking for.

There’s no need to worry about complicated settings; adjust the faders until you get the sound you want. With this fantastic range of control, you can transform simple sounds into complex, rich textures or create entirely new sounds from scratch.

• Reverb and Effect Mode:

The RC 24’s reverb and effect modes offer users a wide range of sounds that can be adjusted to create distinct atmospheres. With flexible parameters, you can combine traditional reverb models with creative effects, including shimmer, distortion, and modulation.

Compatibility:

This plugin is compatible with macOS 10.4 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows XP or higher (64-bit and 32-bit). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

Summary:

The RC24’s faders adjust the effects’ pre-delay, depth, intensity, bass, midrange, and high-cut, while the rotary controls choose between four different modulation styles and the bass/mid crossover frequency.

The Options tab allows you to adjust the input and output volume, enable or deactivate the real-time analysis display, and decide whether or not quantization noise should be included.

6. Native Instruments RC 48

More Info & Price (Trial Available)

In total, the RC 48 features two mind-blowing algorithms. The RC 48 has six simple sliders that regulate the identical values for both algorithms and are, therefore, easy to learn and use. 

Controls for Spin and Wander in the Random Hall algorithm allow for the generation of random motion with remarkably lifelike tails. Also, use the Effect option to make fascinating and motivational modulation effects for more complex sound creation.

The RC 48 is recognized for the depth it provides to vocalists and acoustic instruments with its melodic, luscious reverb. Through manipulation of the Diffusion and Spread controls, a broad range of adaptable textures may be generated, and the Size faders added. The effect option enables the creation of exciting new modulation effects.

Key features:

• Diffusion and Spread Controls:

With its Diffusion and Spread Controls, this piece of equipment provides any musician or sound mixer with unprecedented possibilities to tailor the textures of their music. It makes it easier to add distinct qualities to audio tracks using a single device, as the RC 48 uses sophisticated algorithms that soften several sound characteristics without sacrificing the clarity of each track.

• A/B Switch:

It features an A/B switch that lets you quickly switch between two sets of inputs and outputs while providing needle-precise control over your mix. No matter what project you are working on, the RC 48 A/B switch ensures that you can easily select different stereo pairs, adjust levels, assign effects and create the desired mix.

Compatibility:

This plugin is compatible with macOS 10.4 or higher (64-bit only) and Windows XP or higher (64-bit and 32-bit). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX plugin formats.

Summary:

The RC 48 captures a legendary artist’s adaptable and sumptuous studio sound. The sound of this genre has been featured on the soundtracks of various video games, television shows, and movies, as well as on innumerable gold and platinum records.

Expertly modeled by the team at Softube, this reverb effect is precise, musical, and simple to use; it will add sparkle and depth to your tracks while staying true to the original.

Conclusion

The top six Lexicon plugins for 2024 have paved the way for a unique set of effects. The Lexicon plugin ecosystem is quite deep, from flanger and chorus effects to reverb and filters. And with advancements in automation, integration, and user interfaces, these plugins make producing high-quality audio much more accessible.

Each of these plugins offers impressive versatility and sound quality for various genres. We highly recommend Relab Development’s LX480 for its superior technology, intuitive controls, and realistic soundscapes that provide an unbeatable listening experience.

Combining robust features with precise sonic detail, the LX480 is an invaluable tool that will only improve over time. So don’t hesitate to try it out.