With the introduction of the world's first digital processor in 1971, Lexicon became the original world leader in digital audio. Since that time, Lexicon has continuously introduced ground-breaking technology to the audio industry. Today, Lexicon processing is heard on over 80% of all recordings - broadcast, film soundtracks, and music alike.
For over thirty-five years, Lexicon has had a dramatic impact upon the professional audio industry, with over eighteen years in the consumer market, also, where Lexicon sound is the acknowledged measure of excellence. Their continued development and introduction of exceptional professional products, such as the 960L multichannel effects processor, complete with the LARC, a motorized-fader remote control unit, and a full line of cost-effective, yet highly acclaimed processor models aimed at the home studio professional user, has made Lexicon a legend in their industry, and arguably the top contender in the digital reverb field.
Lexicon Quick Links:
PCM 81 | PCM 91 | 960L-LARC | MPX1 | MX200 | MX300 | MX400 | MX500 |
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Lexicon PCM 81
The PCM 81 Digital Effects Processor has everything that made the PCM 80 the top choice among studio effects processors - and more. More effects, more algorithms, longer delay, and full AES/EBU I/O. Each effect has an uncompromised stereo reverb with several voices of additional effects. A full complement of Pitch Shifters provides doubling, quadruple-tracking, chorus, and pitch correction within a range of up to three octaves (up or down) - in one cent increments, as well as unique special effects. 300 presets give you instant access to pitch, reverb, ambience, sophisticated modulators, over 21 seconds of delay time, and dynamic spatialization effects for 2-channel or surround applications.
The PCM 81 features two digital signal processors: Lexicon's proprietary Lexichip™, to run the reverbs, and a second DSP engine to handle the other effects. With 24-bit internal processing, a true stereo signal path, balanced analog I/O, full AES/EBU and S/PDIF digital I/O, the ability to mix analog and digital inputs together, and extensive modulation capabilities, the PCM 81 offers an enormous range of studio quality effects.
Pitch FX and Vocal Fix algorithms and presets (available for the PCM 80 on PC cards) are built into the PCM 81. Adding Lexicon's Dual FX algorithm card and preset cards for the PCM 80 (which all work with the 81) increases the number of algorithms to over 40 and the number of presets to nearly 800.
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Lexicon PCM 81 Features at a Glance
- All of the features of the PCM 80 PLUS built-in PITCH and Vocal FIX
- AES/EBU and S/PDIF I/O
- 17 Algorithms: 4-Voice, 6-Voice and Pitch
- 300 Preset programs; 50 User
- Dynamic spatialization effects for 2-channel or surround applications
Lexicon PCM 81 Standard Features
- Studio-standard reverbs and effects, including all of the algorithms from the legendary PCM-70.
- A single Adjust knob is automatically attached to all applicable parameters in each factory tailored preset. This allows fast and powerful modification of each preset in real time without ever going into the Edit mode.
- Optional PC (PCMCIA) Cards for both new algorithm programs and user presets
- Pro and Go Modes: Go mode gives you access to as many as ten hand-picked parameters for any particular preset. Pro Mode allows full access to an Edit Matrix of as many as a hundred parameters.
- Balanced Analog I/O - XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs.
- Digital Inputs & Outputs (S/PDIF)
- 300 Presets and 50 User Registers are internal and standard
- 24 Bit Internal Processing
- Multiple DSP Architecture
- PCMCIA Card Slot for software updates and program storage
- Over 21 seconds of delay time.
- Unique Tempo Modes including Tap-Tempo and MIDI clock control
- Dynamic Spatialization: 3-D effects processing (compatible with Surround Sound systems)
- A Library of over 700 carefully crafted factory programs with resident and PC-card software.
Lexicon PCM 81 Processing Quality
The PCM 81 takes over where the PCM 80 left off, adding AES/EBU Digital I/O, a set of algorithms and presets from the Pitch FX and Vocal Fix Cards, and new 24-bit converters for even higher quality audio.
The PCM 81 maintains Lexicon's highest standards for sonic clarity, and its' extraordinary processing power yields the finest effects available in its price class, plus outstanding, world-class reverberation.
Lexicon PCM 91
The PCM 91 Digital Reverberator offers Lexicon's highest quality reverbs in a compact, affordable package with a powerful interface which allows both easy access and a wealth of programming capabilities for the sound designer. All of the features of the acclaimed PCM 90 are included, plus full AES/EBU I/O, new Dual Reverb algorithms, and new presets with dynamic spatialization effects for 2-channel or surround applications. All of the Dual Reverb algorithms and presets (available for the PCM 90 on a PC card) are built into the PCM 91.
450 presets provide sounds for real-world applications- and a unique KeyWord search and sort function allows you to find the preset you want fast. A PCM CIA card slot allows you to store your own programs on memory cards.
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Lexicon PCM 91 Features at a Glance
- All of the features of the PCM 90 PLUS built-in Dual Reverb
- AES/EBU and S/PDIF I/O
- 15 Algorithms: 5 Stereo and 10 Dual Reverb
- 450 Preset programs; 100 User
- Dynamic spatialization effects for 2-channel or surround applications
Lexicon PCM 91 Standard Features
- Lexicon's "greatest hits" - reverb algorithms of the last decade including Random Hall, Random Ambience, Rich Plate, Concert Hall and Split Chamber
- Balanced Analog I/O- XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs
- Digital I/O- S/PDIF and AES/EBU
- Keyword Search: Allows quick, intelligent search of the presets by application (i.e. vocals, drums etc.) or alphabetical order
- A front panel Adjust knob is automatically attached to one or more of the parameters you're likely to want to change in each factory tailored preset. This allows immediate modification of each preset in real time without ever going into the Edit mode.
- Pro and Go Modes: Go mode gives you access to as many as ten hand-picked parameters for any particular preset. Pro Mode allows full access to an Edit Matrix of as many as a hundred parameters.
- Greater than 110dB of Dynamic Range
- Dual Lexichip Architecture- These are our own proprietary microprocessors, custom designed by our own chief scientists to meet Lexicon's rigorous specifications.
- PCMCIA Card Slot for software updates and user-edited preset and system set up storage.
- 50 Factory Presets and 100 Internal User registrations are standard.
Lexicon PCM 91 Reverb Realism
One of the stunning advances in the PCM 91 is the ability to create incredibly realistic small spaces. For both music and film sound, it is often vital to have the ambiences of a phone booth or very small drum room. In the PCM 91 you can create them with a reality never heard before from any processor other than a Lexicon.
Lexicon 960L-LARC Multichannel Effects
For over twenty years, Lexicon has been revered as the industry leader in digital reverb. From the groundbreaking model 224 in 1979, to the industry standard 480L in 1986, Lexicon has continued to build the world's best sounding reverbs at any price. But the world has quickly embraced multi-channel sound, and successful new formats like DVD have given rise to the need for world-class surround reverbs in addition to world-class stereo reverbs. Enter the 960L Multi-Channel Digital Effects System.
The 960L sets the new industry standard for stereo and multi-channel reverbs while providing enough flexibility to grow as formats evolve. With support for 16 channels of I/O, the 960L meets the demands of any application today with ample flexibility to address the demands of tomorrow. A built-in CD-ROM allows for easy software upgrades ensuring that the 960L will remain at the cutting edge of performance and sound quality well into the future. So experience the new standard, experience the 960L. This is the future.
2001 TEC Award Winner: Signal Processing Technology/Hardware
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The Three Versions Available: 960L, 960LD, and 960LS
The 960L
Lexicon's flagship multi-channel digital effects system. The 960L supports 8 channels of balanced analog I/O and 8 channels of AES/EBU digital I/O in various configurations. It comes standard with one DSP card and provides support for an optional second DSP card that doubles the available processing power. It now comes standard with Automation and LOGIC7 UpMix™ options.
The 960LD (Digital)
A more affordable, digital I/O version of Lexicon's flagship multi-channel digital effects system. The 960LDis identical to the 960L, without the balanced analog I/O. But, the A/D analog input and D/A analog output cards are available as separate options.
The 960LS (Stereo)
The newest addition to the 960L family - a stereo version of Lexicon's flagship multi-channel digital effects system. The 960LS is similar to the 960L without the multi-channel processing and AES/EBU digital I/O. But, Multi-Channel Processing software and AES/EBU digital I/O cards are available as separate options. The 960LS supports the Automation option, and, when Multi-Channel Processing is enabled, the LOGIC7 UpMix option. 960L/LARC2
Based on Decades of Innovation
For nearly thirty years, the world's most accomplished engineers and producers have relied upon Lexicon for their most critical music and sound productions. To satisfy these discriminating media professionals and to meet the new demands of today's increasingly complex sound content, Lexicon introduces a new generation of digital audio signal processing technology with the new 960L Multi-Channel Digital Effects System.
3DPM Technology
Designed specifically for the professional audio, broadcasting, film, post-production and live sound markets, the 960L utilizes a bold new technology platform. It will redefine world-class reverberation with a totally new paradigm of intelligent software algorithms based upon 3DPM™ Technology (3D Perceptual Modeling). This new breakthrough technology introduces entirely new acoustic environments based upon recent critical research on how the human brain perceives complex sounds. Lexicon's 3DPM not only allows sound designers to create the most realistic sounding acoustic environments ever, it also allows for the creation of new and unheard of spaces!
Ready for Anything You Can Throw At It
The 960L is capable of full 24-bit/96kHz performance and the factory standard I/O configuration boasts 8 channels of XLR-balanced analog audio as well as full AES/EBU digital I/O in a 4-unit, rack-mounting CPU mainframe. The all-new Lexicon Alpha-numeric Remote Controller (LARC2) compliments the new 960L mainframe. Multiple DSP configurations include: Stereo, 5.1 Surround, Multiple-Stereo, and Stereo plus 5.1 Surround with 44.1, 48, 88.2 and 96kHz sampling rates.
The extensive sonic palette of factory programs includes such time-proven standards as Halls, Chambers, Rooms, Plates, Ambience, Wild Spaces, Post and more. Up to 500 additional user-definable programs may be stored in the CPU.
LARC2 Remote
A New Face for an Old Friend
The user interface for the 960L is a totally redesigned and enhanced LARC2 remote controller. Fashioned after the original LARC, which sits atop the leading recording and post-production consoles throughout the world, the new LARC2 provides a simple and intuitive user interface based on the world standard 480L. A variety of input control devices are provided for maximum control and these can be custom tailored for additional flexibility.
Lexicon commissioned an award-winning industrial design company to co-develop the LARC2. Featuring a highly-stylized design with a large, easy-to-read color backlit LCD display, the LARC2 has eight touch-sensitive motorized faders, a two-axis joystick for surround sound panning/placement control, eight soft and twenty-nine dedicated function keys. Using this extensive array of controls, the user has instant access to a variety of parameters including machine and system status, fader label/value, soft key, machine setup/select, system control/edit, mute/bypass and joystick control. The LARC2 also features and extremely small footprint (8.0" x 10.5" x 5.5") and may be located several hundred feet from the 960L CPU.
Lexicon 960L-LARC Features
- Redefines World-class Reverberation
- 24-bit/96kHz Processing
- Lexicon 3DPM™ Algorithms (3-Dimensional Perceptual Modeling)
- True Multi-Channel Surround Sound and Stereo Reverb Processing
- LARC2™ Remote Control: 480L-based Intuitive User Interface
- Flexible Input and Output Mixing Capabilities
- Expandable Audio and Control I/O
- Hardware and Software Expandable DSP
- Extensive Sonic Palette of Factory Programs
- Eight Touch-Sensitive Motorized (auto-nulling) Faders
- Assignable Joystick for Surround Panning and Creative Parameter Control
Lexicon 960L-LARC Standard Configuration
- Multiple 3DPM DSP Configurations: Stereo, 5.1 Surround, Combined
- Eight 24-bit/96kHz Balanced XLR Analog I/O
- Four Stereo Pairs of 24-bit/96kHz AES/EBU Digital I/O
- MIDI In/Out/Thru
- BNC Word Clock Input/Output/Loopthru
- CD-ROM Drive for Software Upgrades
Lexicon MPX1 Multi Effects Processor
The MPX 1 Multi-Effects Processor is the machine that fulfills the promise implied by the term -multi-effects.- When summoned to do their best reverb, most single DSP multieffect processors run out of gas - you don't get additional effects. The MPX 1 has Lexicon's own proprietary Lexichip, dedicated to delivering uncompromised Lexicon stereo reverb or ambience, in addition to another processor to create the other digital effects. So you get your best reverb, at all times, along with as many as 4 additional stereo effects.
Multiple Processor FX technology combined with an interactive front panel, creates a new set of standards for others to follow... no less than you'd expect from Lexicon.
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Lexicon MPX 1 Multi Standard Features
- Multi-effects and Lexicon quality reverb without compromising sound quality
- Intuitive user interface - edits the way you speak (i.e. press EDIT then REVERB...)
- Built-in help: Hold down any button and it tells you what is going on
- Balanced Analog I/O (1/4" & XLR)
- 56 effect algorithms
- The most comprehensive modulation section we have ever devised: two LFOs, 2 AR Generators, S&H Generator, a random number generator, input level as a modulation source for expressiveness and more
- Digital Inputs & Outputs (S/PDIF @ 44.1KHz) 24-Bit A/D/A Conversion
- 32-bit internal processing (depending on active FX blocks)
- Discrete Stereo or Dual Mono Processing
- >90dB of Dynamic Range
- Multiple DSP Architecture
- Up to 5 Simultaneous stereo effects routable in any configuration, with individual mix and gain for each effect
- Intelligent Sorting features: Sort by Name, Number, Application (i.e. vocals, live sound, guitar etc.), Effect (i.e. chorus, parametric EQ, Pitch Shifting etc.) or Last 10 presets loaded (in case you forgot- we thought of everything)
- A/B "Soft Switch" assignable as continuous controller (controls Patching, etc.)
- Parameter Morphing
- Dynamic MIDI™ patching & MIDI automation
- Dynamic Patching™
- Unique Tempo Modes including Tap-Tempo, MIDI clock control (with MPX-1 as slave or master device)
- MIDI Arpeggiator
Lexicon MX200 Dual Reverb Effects
Two Processors. Two Unique Applications. One Rack Space.
Whether you're looking for raw processing power with instant front-panel access for live performance, or seeking rich, smooth and complex processing algorithms in the studio, Lexicon® brings the best of both worlds together in the MX200 Dual Reverb/Effects Processor. Designed with both live sound reinforcement and home recording in mind, MX200 features the deep, rich reverb and effects algorithms that built the Lexicon legend, and adds increased versatility with specialty effects and dbx® dynamics. Each of the 32 stunning reverbs and effects - and their parameters - are all instantly accessible within a single button push or knob turn on the intelligently designed front panel without wading through bank after bank of tedious menus. Add powerful Editor/Librarian and VST® / Audio Units software, and bring 35 years of Lexicon heritage to your desktop, using a USB interface.
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Studio and Live Operation
Studio Operation
In the studio, advances in computer-based recording have led many engineers to value the instant control and heads-up use of plug-in effects - but many still yearn for the rich, complex sound found in a dedicated hardware processor. Now, Lexicon provides a USB interface with intuitive cross-platform VST® and Audio Unit plug-in windows, allowing the MX200 to function as a "hardware plug-in" - recognized and functioning within VST and Audio Units-compatible DAWs as a plug-in effect, but still operating as a dedicated hardware unit. This unique USB plug-in feature allows users to easily control the MX200 in their computer-based recordings within the graphical interface that appears in the recording application like a plug-in, with full automation and recall features. Now software-based recording engineers can stay focused on the heart of their studio - the application window of their recording software. A powerful cross-platform Editor/Librarian software package is included as well. MX-Edit™ lets you create, edit, compare, save and load reverb and effects programs for use with your MX200 on your Mac® or Windows® XP computer.
Live Operation
Those using the MX200 in the live arena will appreciate its intuitive front panel layout, with an Active Reverb/Effects Matrix that constantly displays which two of the 32 available effects are active, and all functions available within a single button-push turn of a knob. Dual independent processor control areas with dedicated Effects Select, Tempo, Bypass and three parameter control knobs provide instant access with precise and meaningful control over the most critical parameters for the selected effect. Parameter change LEDs illuminate to indicate any change from the 99 meticulously crafted Factory or 99 User Programs. Choose from five digitally-recorded audio samples to Audition the selected effects.
Split Personality
Either way you choose to use the MX200 - live or in the studio - you can choose two legendary Lexicon® reverbs and effects at once in one of four flexible routing options including: Dual Mono, Cascade, Dual Stereo (Parallel), or Mono Split. Featuring 99 carefully crafted Factory programs, and 99 User programs that allow you to create your own legendary effects. Front panel controls include Input Level, Mix 1 and Mix 2 Wet/Dry controls, Routing button, independent Tempo, Bypass and 3 control knobs for each Processor, Program Select knob, Audition button (to preview the selected effect) and Store button.
Lexicon MX200 Features
- 16 legendary Lexicon® reverbs
- Lexicon delays & modulation effects
- dbx® Dynamics
- Dual-Processor design
- 4 Routing Configurations: Dual Mono, Dual Stereo, Mono Split
- 99 Factory / 99 User Programs
- USB "Hardware Plug-In" Feature
- VST® and Audio Units Plug-In Software
- MX-Edit™ Editor/Librarian Software
- S/PDIF Digital Input / Output
- 24 bit, 48kHz Sample Rate
Lexicon MX300 Stereo Reverb Effects
Lexicon's revolutionary MX200 and MX400 changed everything. The great sound of a hardware Lexicon reverb - plus the ability to put that power to work as part of your DAW workflow via PC VST® and Mac® AU plug-ins. Now we've packed a significant portion of the MX400's feature set into the ultra-affordable MX300.
All parameters of every reverb, delay and dynamic effect in this powerhouse processor are available inside any PC VST® or Macintosh® AU compatible DAW program. Just link your computer to the MX300 with a USB cable and control automation and recall parameters exactly as you would with any software plug-in. You get the sonic benefits only Lexicon hardware can provide...without bogging down your computer's CPU with the extreme demands of reverb plug-ins.
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MX300: More Info
Along with Lexicon's unique "hardware plug-ins" for PC and Mac®, we've also included MX-Edit™ Librarian software so you can store and recall custom programs or pull up an unlimited number of Lexicon settings.
You'll hear why Lexicon is the leader in reverberation effects. Why not put the unprecedented power and connectivity of the MX300 to work on your productions?
When money is no object, Lexicon gets written into more major tour's riders than any other brand of reverb. But when money is a concern, you can still have the rich, detailed texture that makes the Lexicon sound unique. Here is a full arsenel of voice and instrument-enhancing effects including sixteen Lexicon reverbs, seven delays, genuine dbx® compression and de-essing and modulated effects that will make any performance sound better.
Lexicon designed the MX300 to be ultra-easy-to use in demanding live sound situations. Once a program has been selected, you have instant access to three parameter knobs - instead of having to page through extra menus. You can program a whole night of presets, and dial them up quickly with the dedicated program select knob and bright LED display. Like every product that Lexicon makes, the MX300 is designed to withstand years of jarring, jostling, load-ins, load-outs, brownouts and power surges. It's simply the most live reverb ever offered at this price.
Lexicon MX300 Features
- 2-in / 2-out configuration
- 16 legendary Lexicon® reverbs
- Lexicon delays & modulation effects
- dbx® compression and de-essing
- Input Gain Control for stereo inputs
- Intuitive Navigation/Edition with large LCD screen, Page/Select Wheel, 3 top-level parameter controls plusExit, Tempo and Bypass selectors
- 5 effect routing options
- 99 Factory / 99 User programs
- USB "Hardware Plug-In" feature withVST® and Audio Units plug-in software
- MX-Edit™ Editor/Librarian software
- S/PDIF Digital Input/Output
- 24-bit, 48kHz/44.1kHz sample rates
- 1/4" footswitch jack
- MIDI IN and THRU
- XLR and 1/4" TRS balanced I/O
Lexicon MX400 Dual Stereo/Surround Reverb
Plug In Programming and Recall
You want the rich, luscious sound that's defined studio reverb for three decades: a genuine Lexicon hardware processor. The flexibility of programming high-quality effects right inside your DAW program...without bogging down your CPU or resorting to expensive processing cards.
Have it all with the MX400. All parameters of every reverb, delay and dynamic effect in this powerhouse quad processor are available inside any VST® or AU compatible DAW program. Link your computer to the MX400 with a USB cable and control all automation and recall parameters exactly as you would with any software plug.
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MX400: More Info
Along with Lexicon's unique "hardware plug-ins" for PC and Mac®, we've also included MX-Edit™ Librarian software so you can store and recall custom programs or pull up your choice of 223 genuine Lexicon settings including 25 dedicated Surround Programs. At its heart, the MX400 is everything you would expect from the company that invented digital reverberation. Seventeen Lexicon reverbs, delays and modulation effects plus dbx® compression and de-essing. A generous LCD display and big comfy knobs you can get your hands around.
Meet the most Lexicon power ever offered in a super-affordable 1RU effects processor. Perfect for band PAs, churches and clubs.
We know you need to be able to make changes quickly, so we designed the MX400's intuitive front panel to be a bare minimum of knob tweaks away from any adjustment or effects change. For example, three individual, assignable parameter controls mean you don't have to page through menus to fine tune a reverb tail. Because you can use its built-in dbx® compression and de-essing in tandem with reverb, the MX400 is the perfect tool for taming problem vocalists. Finally, you can rely on the MX400 for years to come, through countless load-ins and loadouts - although its sound is A-studio-quality, we designed the MX400 to withstand dust, moisture, shock, power surges and all the other rigors of live sound use.
The first time you ever heard reverb on an album track, chances are you were hearing Lexicon. They invented digital processing.
Lexicon MX400 Features
- 17 legendary Lexicon® reverbs
- Lexicon delays & modulation effects
- dbx® compression and de-essing
- Quad-processor design
- 7 effect routing options
- 99 Factory/99 user programs for Stereo mode
- 99 Factory/99 user programs for Dual-Stereo mode
- 25 Factory/25 user surround programs
- USB "Hardware Plug-In" feature with VST® and Audio Units plug-in software
- MX-Edit™ Editor/Librarian software
- Dual S/PDIF Digital Input/Output
- 24 bit, 48kHz/44.1kHz sample rates
- Large front panel LCD display
- MIDI IN and THRU
- 1/4" balanced/unbalanced TRS I/O
Lexicon MX500
Dual Stereo/Surround Reverb
Give your CPU a rest. Put expensive "farm cards" out to pasture. Now you can have the rich, luscious Lexicon sound that's defined studio reverb for three decades in a purely digital form. With all the convenience of an automated plug-in right inside your DAW program.
The new MX500 takes Lexicon's innovative "hardware plug-in" feature to the next level by actually streaming dual stereo audio via FireWire.
Like the MX200, MX300 and MX400, all parameters of every reverb, delay and dynamic effect in this powerhouse quad processor are available inside any PC VST® or Macintosh® AU compatible DAW program. But now the sonic benefits of Lexicon hardware can stay digital.
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MX500: More Info
Of course Lexicon didn't forget balanced 4-in / 4-out analog connections - you can switch back and forth between digital and analog I/O via software and automate either with Lexicon's hardware plug-in.
At its heart, the MX500 is everything you would expect from Lexicon, the company that invented digital reverberation. Seventeen classic Lexicon reverbs, delays and modulation effects plus dbx® compression and de-essing. A generous LCD display and big comfy knobs you can get your hands around. A wealth of routing options from quad mono to dual stereo.
The MX500 is perfect for band PAs, churches and clubs when it's not working its magic in the studio.
Lexicon knew you need to be able to make changes quickly, so they designed the MX500's intuitive front panel to be a bare minimum of knob tweaks away from any adjustment or effects change. For example, three individual, assignable parameter controls mean you don't have to page through menus to fine tune a reverb tail. And because you can use its built-in dbx® compression and de-essing in tandem with reverb, the MX500 is the perfect tool for taming problem vocalists.
Seven Effects Routing Options
The MX500 lets you switch effect routings via front panel controls, so you don't have to spend time behind your rack changing cables to instantly re-purpose its fLexicon's powerful processors. From basic quad mono, to stereo to more complex dual stereo configurations, you can have 'em all at the twist of a knob.
All MX500 reverbs, delays, dynamics and effects parameters can be accessed and edited from the included PC VST® and Macintosh® Audio Units plug-ins or via MX-Edit™ editor/librarian software.
Lexicon MX500 Features
- 17 legendary Lexicon® reverbs
- Lexicon delays & modulation effects
- dbx® compression and de-essing
- Quad-processor design
- Quad-processor design
- Streaming dual stereo FireWire® audio processing
- 7 effect routing options
- 99 Factory/99 user programs for Stereo mode
- 99 Factory/99 user program for Dual-Stereo mode
- 25 Factory/25 user surround programs
- "Hardware Plug-In" feature with PC VST® and Macintosh® Audio Units plug-in software
- MX-Edit™ Editor/Librarian software
- Dual S/PDIF Digital Input/Output
- 24 bit, 48kHz/44.1kHz sample rates
- Large front panel LCD display
- MIDI IN and THRU
- 1/4" balanced/unbalanced TRS I/O
More Lexicon products are available!
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Lexicon Corporate Information
With the introduction of the world's first digital processor in 1971, Lexicon became the world leader in digital audio. Since that time, Lexicon has continuously introduced ground-breaking technology to the audio industry. Today, Lexicon processing is heard on over 80% of all recordings - broadcast, film soundtracks, and music alike. In the home theater market, Lexicon sound is the acknowledged measure of excellence.
Lexicon Inc.
8760 South Sandy Parkway,
Sandy, Utah 84070
phone: (801) 568-7567
fax: (801) 568-7662
web: http://www.lexiconpro.com/
Notable Links:
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Recording Tips
Pt. 2
Effects processing continued from Recording Tips Pt. 1
Anything else, and either your program will be brutally hacked off during some inopportune, quiet passage, or you'll never hear any effect from the gate at all, because the program/key will keep it open all the time, rendering it seriously useless to you. However, on a drum, or similar staccato program, the gate can accurately detect the transient of the attack, open to allow the sound through, and can then close reliably during the gaps between shots, effectively removing any leakage from the track. Some additional parameters on many gate units, such as hold and release time controls, and sometimes, attack time, can be used to tailor this effect quite perfectly. Hold time causes the gate to remain open for a settable, short period, after the transient drops below the threshold, allowing our example drum decay to "finish", rather than cutting it off too early. Release time makes the gate close more slowly, so the "tail" of a sound can be faded off, smoothing the end of the sound, instead of chopping it off, or perhaps, fading it well before it would otherwise end naturally. A variable attack time can be used to make a sound fade in slightly, either to dull the attack, or edge, a bit, or to transform the sound into something it wasn't, by changing its' envelope altogether, such as creating a piano with a short fade-in on each note.
Another Caveat: Don't use gates during recording - only in mixdown, or you may accidentally chop off an irretrievable part of a great live performance, and inspire your now very angry recording artists to get medieval on your hiney....
As I've said, this same dynamic controlled operation at threshold methodology is used in, and applies to, the other dynamic devices in this group, too. Compressors, for another example, are used to compress (reduce) dynamic range in a signal, making it sound more consistent in the mix, or punchier, and adding some interesting artifacts, or side effects, in the process. Use a compressor when you find some instrument - a bass, for example - to be too jumpy or inconsistent, getting quieter and louder all the time, and because of that, wrecking the foundation of your mix. Set the threshold control so that the highest peak levels are being squeezed just a bit (say, at -10 dB), and set the ratio (ratio of dB change in level of input to dB change in level of output) to a low-ish amount, like 2:1 to start (two dB gain change in for every one dB gain change you get out), and listen... if it doesn't quite do the trick, lower the threshold a bit more, until the bass stabilizes. Higher ratios give more of a brick-wall effect, and are great for stopping really high transients (this is called limiting, at a ratio of 10:1 and above), but can quickly suck the life out of your tracks, so use them carefully. The meters on the compressor will likely show gain reduction, as well as input level - go for about 6 to 10 dB of reduction, on average, and most bass parts will be good to go. Less is good, if it still works for your needs in the moment. Once again, too, there are other parameters - attack and release, in particular - which will tailor the sound for you. Longer attack times (in milliseconds - very short, like maybe 30 - 50 ms) allow more of the attack of a stick on a snare drum, or the "pick" sound of a strummed acoustic guitar, through the compressor, before compression takes over. Longer release times make the compressor "hold on" a bit, before letting go, so staccato parts don't "pump", or compress and decompress in an ongoing cycle, making the sound "bounce" up and down like a yo-yo.
De-essers use the concept of compression, but the effect is only applied to one part of the sonic spectrum (the "esses", at around 4500 Hz, depending on the person being de-essed), meaning that the compressor can push down the "s" sound, while leaving the remainder of the program unaffected. It does so, by first splitting the audio signal into separate bands (sections) of frequencies, using crossover filters, and then, the compression is applied to each band, or any band, independently, before the audio is mixed back together again at its' output. The name of this type of general device is a multiband compressor. These units can do more than de-essing, because they can be used on any part, or parts, of the audio program, to pump up bass, control mid-range energy, or reduce the impact of proximity effect, among other uses.
Expanders are used to increase dynamic range in a signal, and do so, by actually turning down a signal's level even further, as it decays towards silence. The result, is that it goes through an even wider dynamic range, between its' loudest and quietest points. The effect is like that of a gate, except, where a gate is either open or closed, expanders offer a "grey area", where they can be "partly open", or "partly closed", fading between extremes of level on a proportional scale.
Most multieffect processors offer both classes of effects, in some combination, but most of these units concentrate on time-based effects, in their palette of options. The best dynamic effects are often available in standalone, dedicated hardware units, and offer exceptionally sensitive, subtle and tonally pleasant capabilities, as well as uniquely-implemented circuit designs.
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For those looking for high-quality, and possibly higher-end alternative products, here are some suggestions from Eventide's line of processors...
Eventide H8000FW Effects Processor
The Eventide H8000FW is a fully-programmable, multi-channel, multipurpose, 24 bit, 96kHz-capable, dual or monolithic (both processors used to support one huge algorithm) topology digital signal processor (DSP) audio effects processor with UltraShifter™ capability. That's a lot of adjectives, but the H8000FW is a lot of processor! It is the flagship of a long, proud line of digital signal processors that stretches back to a time when most audio manufacturers didn't know digital audio from Morse code.
Eventide H7600 Effects Processor
The Eventide H7600 can do most everything the multichannel H8000FW can do, but in stereo. The variety of possible effects is virtually without end. And, if that's not enough, it boasts nearly three minutes of sample time in addition to 40 seconds of delay time!
Eventide 4000B+ Processor
The DSP4000B+ is based on Eventide's powerful DSP7000 professional audio effects processor, but it has a unique set of software programs created especially for radio, TV and postproduction by sound designer Jay Rose. Effects that would be impossible with most processors are instantly available with the DSP7000 series. Just press a button and look who's talking - an airplane captain from the cockpit. Press again - now, it's the kid at the drive-thru window at a fast-food place. Another press and you'll hear your words coming out of a computer voice chip, or the TV in the next room, or a cellular phone. There are dozens of audio environments to choose from. Fantasy voices are just as easy.
Eventide Eclipse 3.0 Processor
The Eventide Eclipse 3.0 represents a world-class effects processor offering five times the processing power of the legendary Eventide H3000, in a single-rackspace, hyper-flexible stereo format. Every type of Eventide algorithm is provided in the Eclipse, so your favourite scale-dependent harmonizing, including User-Definable scales, lush reverbs and incredible delay, chorus, flange, filter and phase effects are all right there, and all with the same incredible modulation possibilities as Eventide's bigger processors.
Eventide Reverb 2016 Processor
The Eventide Reverb 2016 by Princeton Digital recreates the legendary reverbs from Eventide's SP2016 - Stereo Room, Room Reverb and High Density Plate - and contains 3 new algorithms that provide updated variations on each of the original reverbs. It features two channels of 24 bit audio I/O. With dedicated function knobs and an intuitive user-interface, the 2016 is designed for easy operation - live or in the studio.
Eventide EVE/NET Network Remote Control System
The EVE/NET Network Remote Control System is a sophisticated approach to remotely controlling multiple audio processing units. It allows essentially any number of small remote control units to select from and control essentially any number of rack mounted Eventide Harmonizer Brand effects units. Currently the H8000, H8000A and H8000FW are supported, as well as the Orville, DSP7000 and DSP7500.
Eventide Anthology TDM Plugin Bundle
The Anthology TDM Plugin Bundle is comprised of the best Eventide effects from thirty-five years of crafting effects used on the top recording and post-production projects. Anthology II includes the entire Anthology bundle, plus six new essential production tools to round out the collection, forming the most complete Eventide bundle ever. The Anthology II bundle contains all the plug-ins you need for your next Pro Tools TDM project.
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