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Average Price: $1,800

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$501+

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Description

The Lexicon PCM 42 is a classic effects processor that has been a staple in studios since its debut. Known for its proprietary delay algorithms, this unit delivers rich and warm echo effects that have been used by professional musicians and producers worldwide. Its intuitive interface allows for seamless integration into any studio setup, making it a versatile tool for both live performances and studio recordings.

This effects processor features a digital delay with modulation control, offering users the ability to create lush, evolving soundscapes. The PCM 42 is celebrated for its high-fidelity audio processing, which ensures pristine sound quality that enhances any musical production. Whether you're looking to add depth to vocals or texture to instruments, the PCM 42 provides the flexibility needed to elevate your sound.

A true testament to its enduring design, the Lexicon PCM 42 continues to be revered for its robust build and reliable performance. It remains a favorite among sound engineers and musicians alike, blending seamlessly with modern and vintage gear.

Key Features:

  • Proprietary digital delay algorithms
  • Modulation control for dynamic effects
  • High-fidelity audio processing
  • Suitable for live and studio use
  • Intuitive interface for easy operation
  • Renowned for robustness and reliability

Product specs

Brand Lexicon
Model PCM 42 Digital Delay Processor
Finish Blue
Year 1980s
Made In United States
Categories Delay

FAQs

What kind of delay does the Lexicon PCM 42 provide?

The Lexicon PCM 42 offers a digital delay with a warm, analog-like sound, known for its rich and musical character, making it ideal for studio recording and live performance.

How does the Lexicon PCM 42 differ from other delay processors?

The PCM 42 is renowned for its modulation capabilities and the ability to create lush, tape-like delays, setting it apart from other digital delay units.

Is the Lexicon PCM 42 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Lexicon PCM 42 is well-suited for live performances due to its robust design and intuitive control layout, allowing for easy adjustments in real-time.

Can the Lexicon PCM 42 be used in a modern digital studio setup?

The PCM 42 can be integrated into modern digital studio setups with appropriate analog-to-digital conversion, offering a unique delay character that complements digital environments.

What are the main controls available on the Lexicon PCM 42?

The Lexicon PCM 42 features controls for delay time, feedback, modulation depth, and modulation rate, allowing for detailed manipulation of the delay effect.

Urban Recording Company

Urban Recording Company

Lexicon PCM 42 Classic Delay Overview by Little Fish Audio

Video thumbnail for Lexicon PCM 42 Classic Delay Overview by Little Fish Audio by Urban Recording Company

Lexicon PCM 42 Classic Delay Overview by Little Fish Audio

Urban Recording Company

Urban Recording Company

Video thumbnail for PCM42 - Lexicon's EPIC Digital Delay Processor by Ken Marshall

PCM42 - Lexicon's EPIC Digital Delay Processor

Ken Marshall

Ken Marshall

Video thumbnail for Lexicon PCM 42 vs Valhalla Delay Plug by arnaud houpert

Lexicon PCM 42 vs Valhalla Delay Plug

arnaud houpert

arnaud houpert

Video thumbnail for Lexicon PCM-42 Digital Delay Lead Guitar Magic by Clifton Wright

Lexicon PCM-42 Digital Delay Lead Guitar Magic

Clifton Wright

Clifton Wright

Video thumbnail for Lexicon digital delay processor pcm 42 by Dusty Records & Turntables

Lexicon digital delay processor pcm 42

Dusty Records & Turntables

Dusty Records & Turntables

Reviews

PROS

  • Blends well with the source, enhancing audio quality

  • Offers precision control over delay sounds

  • Eliminates unwanted distortion common with some pedals

  • Features fun options like modulation for creative soundscapes

  • Historically used by renowned artists, indicating professional-grade performance

  • Provides a distinctive experience compared to ordinary effects pedals

CONS

  • High current prices often not justified by the performance

  • Limiter trick, often hyped, can be overrated and unreliable

  • Older units can deteriorate, affecting reliability and performance

  • Better value alternatives available at similar or lower price points

  • Market inflated by speculative reselling, driving up prices unnecessarily

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Lexicon PCM 42.

Comparisons

  • Soundtoys Primal Tap is based on Lexicon Prime Time and not PCM 41, offering a different character. Primal Tap struggles with PCM 41's unique repeat function.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • PCM 41 is known for its gritty, dark sound, which some users seek to replicate with plugins featuring lofi and analog modes.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • ValhallaDelay is praised for affordability but lacks the PCM 41's variable readout speed technology.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Priced high now, PCM 41 was more accessible between 2017-2019, making it a rare find for collectors today.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find PCM 41's unique ability to "bend" and "rip" sound unmatched by any current plugin, providing a distinct auditory experience.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Legendary Lexicon PCM 42 Digital Delay from 1982 | Vintage Digital

vintagedigital.com.au

The Lexicon PCM 42 is heralded as a vintage gem in the realm of digital delays, offering rich, clean audio and long delay times that remain unmatched even after 40 years. Its robust build and reliability make it a studio staple, praised for its versatility and unique features like footpedal controls and sync capabilities that open creative possibilities. Users celebrate its sound quality and usefulness, although the rising prices over the years are a point of contention. Despite its age, the PCM 42 is still celebrated for delivering a "superb" delay quality, and its enduring charm is evident in its continued use in renowned studios worldwide.

positive

FLASHBACK: Lexicon PCM 42 Digital Delay Processor | Performer Mag

performermag.com

The Lexicon PCM 42 remains a cherished relic of the early '80s with its distinctive delay sound. Its unique A/D converters and dual-stage limiters lend a character that's hard to replicate, even with modern plugins. While its mono output and hefty price tag in the used market might deter some, its unparalleled vocal and guitar applications make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking that vintage, tape-like echo. A gem for those who value sonic authenticity over convenience.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 7 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Alan Braxe uses Lexicon PCM 42

Alan Braxe

Music Producer

Alan Braxe & Fred Falke

...
Verified via YouTube

At 6:00 in this video, one can spot Alan Braxe's PCM 42.

See how John Linnell uses Lexicon PCM 42

John Linnell

Singer, Keyboardist

They Might Be Giants

...
Verified via Tumblr

The heart of Linnell’s system is an Apple Macintosh IIci (1) running MOTU’s Performer sequencer and Mosaic notator (for horn arrangements), connected to an Opcode Studio Plus Two MIDI interface (2) and Timecode Machine sync box (3). A Cutting Edge hard disk (4) alongside Linnell’s Music Mart accordion (5) doubles as a pedestal for a Bundy bass clarinet (6) — which is not to ignore his prized Buescher bass sax (7). A Yamaha MJC8 (8) distributes MIDI to his E-mu Proteus FX (9) (“this is what I’m using live now”) and Vintage Keys (10), Roland R-8M percussion module (11) and U-220 (12), plus a Casio VZ-10M (13) bought in a closeout sale. “It’s the end of the legendary CZ line,” he laments. “It’s got some weird, cheap sounds you can’t get any other way.” An Akai S1000KB sampler (14) also serves as a master MIDI keyboard. When he’s in a picking mood, Linnell picks up a Gibson SG from the early ‘60s (15). A Boss TU-12H (16) helps keep it in tune.

The instruments, plus a Sennheiser 421 mike (17), feed a Tascam 688 eight-track cassette deck (18). “It has all these line inputs,” Linnell points out. “I can mix all my sequenced tracks and still have seven tape tracks for bass clarinet.” For effects, he uses a Urei 7110 compressor/limiter, Lexicon PCM42 delay (19). Yamaha SPX90II multieffect unit (20) and Korg DRV-1000 reverb (21). He mixes to a Sony TC-WR690 cassette deck (22) and Panasonic SV-3700 DAT (23), amplified by a Hafler PRO2400 (24) and Design Acoustics PS-10 speakers (25).

See how Jonathan Wilson uses Lexicon PCM 42

Jonathan Wilson

Guitarist

Eisley

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video titled "Analog Mixing & Jonathan Wilson's Home Studio" on the Produce Like A Pro YouTube channel, Jonathan Wilson discusses his use of the Lexicon PCM 42 effects processor in his studio setup.

See how Alanis Morissette uses Lexicon PCM 42

Alanis Morissette

Singer, Guitarist

ArtistsCAN

...
Verified via Mixonline

"For effects, Pearson uses a variety of multi-effects units to help create different sonic textures. 'I have a TC M5000 multi-effects unit, a Lexicon 480L reverb, a [Yamaha] SPX-990 multi-effects, a PCM 42 delay and an Eventide H3000 Harmonizer. On Alanis' CDs, she overdubs her voice a lot to create harmonies and textures, so I use a variety of delays and the harmonizer to create different textures between the verses and the chorus. But [I] keep it sounding natural to imply the effect that she uses on the CDs."

See how James Petralli uses Lexicon PCM 42

James Petralli

Singer, Guitarist

White Denim

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "White Denim Flash Bare AZZ Breakout" on the official White Denim YouTube channel, James Petralli mentions using the Lexicon PCM 42 at the 7:44 mark.

See how David Torn uses Lexicon PCM 42

David Torn

Guitarist

David Bowie (band)

...
Verified via Premierguitar

"My regular looping rig is a modified Lexicon PCM 42—the first one made of its kind. [Lexicon designer] Gary Hall modified it around 1981 to have approximately 20 seconds of sampling/delay time. The originals only had five seconds. I have another PCM 42 that was modded to feature a reverse-play switch."

See how Jesse Carmichael uses Lexicon PCM 42

Jesse Carmichael

Singer, Guitarist

Maroon 5

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Used for the keyboards on "Makes Me Wonder", as stated by mix engineer Mark Endert in this September 2007 Sound on Sound interview.

Keyboards: Urei 1176, Roland SDE3000, Lexicon PCM42

“The acoustic piano had a ton of 1176 compression on it and also some slap echo from an SDE3000. I definitely added timed delays from my PCM42s to the Juno 106 pads to keep them nice and full in the choruses. The great thing about the contour of the track is that there are moments when it’s big and then you get sucked down into moments that are tight and small. So when the keyboards change to distorted Rhodes and Wurlitzer in the bridge, they are much more dry than anything else. I don’t think I used plug–ins on the keyboards."

See how John Shanks uses Lexicon PCM 42

John Shanks

Guitarist, Composer

Bon Jovi

...
Verified via Photo

In this rack photo posted by Shanks on his Instagram profile, the two Lexicon PCM42 digital delay processors can be seen.

See how Jaycen Joshua uses Lexicon PCM 42

Jaycen Joshua

Music Producer, Audio Engineer

...
Verified via Jaycenjoshua

Listed in the Gear-Section.

K

Ken "Hiwatt" Marshall

Music Producer

Skinny Puppy

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video you can see Ken Marshall using the Lexicon PCM42 mounted in his rack.

J

Joakim

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via CROWDSPACER STUDIO NYC

According to a list of equipment which is used in his studio, Crowdspacer, Joakim is also a user of Lexicon PCM-42 digital delay.

See how Manny Marroquin uses Lexicon PCM 42

Manny Marroquin

Audio Engineer

...
Verified via Gearspaceforum

In an interview with Gearspace, audio engineer Manny Marroquin stated, "My favorite delay is a PCM 42," confirming his use of the Lexicon PCM 42 effects processor.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Lexicon PCM 42, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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