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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 Philippe Zdar uses Lexicon PCM 42

Philippe Zdar

Composer, Music Producer

Cassius

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video you can see Philippe Zdar showing 2 PCM 42 Reverbs

See how Mary J. Blige uses Lexicon PCM 42

Mary J. Blige

Singer

Various Artists for Children's Promise

...
Verified

Prince Charles Alexander confirmed that Mary J. Blige used the Lexicon PCM 42 on her album, saying, "We were renting gear as well. The Lexicon 480L was the main reverb unit we were using. For delays, we were using the PCM 42." This information is corroborated by the article "Key Tracks: Mary J. Blige’s My Life" on the Red Bull Music Academy website.

See how Ulrich Wild uses Lexicon PCM 42

Ulrich Wild

Music Producer, Audio Engineer

Deftones

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video on YouTube titled "Static-X 'Push It': Inside the Song w/ Ulrich Wild - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro," at the 32:48 mark, Ulrich Wild, a renowned music producer and audio engineer, mentions utilizing the Lexicon PCM 42 Digital Delay, which was available in the Master Control mixing studio in Burbank, CA.

See how Steve Levine uses Lexicon PCM 42

Steve Levine

Composer, Music Producer

Culture Club

...
Verified via ProSoundNetwork.com

"In the past I used the Lexicon 224, 480 and to this day I still use the PCM 42. With Lexicon, you know the type of effect you are going to get and what the quality of the sound is," he said. "With the younger generation of musicians, they don't necessarily know the heritage of Lexicon, but when they hear something they like, they will ask you what they are hearing. That has been the case on more than one occasion when I've been using the Lexicon plug-in."

See how Dave Jerden uses Lexicon PCM 42

Dave Jerden

Music Producer, Audio Engineer

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video titled "Alice in Chains: Inside the Song with Dave Jerden - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro," Dave Jerden, a music producer and audio engineer, confirms at the 22:33 mark his use of the Lexicon PCM 42 Digital Delay on songs from the Alice in Chains' album.

See how Neeraj Khajanchi uses Lexicon PCM 42

Neeraj Khajanchi

Music Producer, Audio Engineer

...
Verified via YouTube

In a YouTube video by 作曲家・和田貴史の庭, Neeraj Khajanchi is shown using the Lexicon PCM 42, a high-performance effects processor known for its 2.4 seconds of high-quality audio delay, at NK SOUND TOKYO.

See how Ben Grosse uses Lexicon PCM 42

Ben Grosse

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In an interview video titled "Ben Grosse Interview and Studio Tour" by Produce Like A Pro, at the 22:41 mark, Ben Grosse confirms using the Lexicon PCM 42.

See how Brent Rowan uses Lexicon PCM 42

Brent Rowan

Guitarist, Music Producer

The Rambos

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

In an interview with Vintage Guitar® magazine, Brent Rowan states, "I have two Lexicon PCM 42s in my rack," confirming his use of this specific 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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