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Average Price: $1,240

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$501+

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Description

Step into the realm of professional sound design with the Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb, a staple in studios since its introduction in the mid-1980s. Renowned for its rich, lush reverb tails, this effects processor has cemented its place in music history, becoming a favored tool for producers and engineers who demand sonic excellence. Its intuitive interface, coupled with powerful algorithms, offers a wide array of reverb types, from small room ambiances to expansive halls, making it versatile for any recording scenario.

The PCM-70 Reverb is celebrated for its ability to bring a detailed, three-dimensional quality to tracks, enhancing vocals, instruments, and even full mixes. With its proprietary Lexichip, this processor delivers unparalleled depth and clarity, allowing users to sculpt their sound with precision. Musicians and producers alike appreciate its reliability and the consistency it brings to their projects, whether in the studio or live performances.

Designed for easy operation, the Lexicon PCM-70 features a straightforward control layout, ensuring that even the most complex reverbs are accessible and adjustable. The unit's presets provide a solid foundation for quick setup, while its extensive editing capabilities allow for deep customization to suit any musical style.

Key Features:

  • Renowned for its rich and lush reverb tails
  • Proprietary Lexichip for superior sound quality
  • Wide range of reverb types, from rooms to halls
  • Intuitive interface for easy operation
  • Extensive editing capabilities for sound customization
  • Trusted by professional producers and engineers worldwide

Product specs

Brand Lexicon
Model PCM 70 Digital Effects Processor
Finish Black
Year 1980s
Made In United States
Categories Multi-Effect

FAQs

What are the main reverb types available on the Lexicon PCM-70?

The Lexicon PCM-70 offers a variety of reverb types, including Hall, Plate, Room, and Concert Hall, known for their rich and lush sound quality suitable for both studio and live applications.

Is the Lexicon PCM-70 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Lexicon PCM-70 is well-regarded for live performances due to its robust build and versatile reverb settings, providing high-quality effects that enhance live sound production.

How does the Lexicon PCM-70 compare to newer reverb units?

While newer units might offer more features, the Lexicon PCM-70 is celebrated for its classic digital reverb sound, which remains a favorite for its warmth and character in both studio and live settings.

Can the Lexicon PCM-70 be integrated into a modern DAW setup?

Yes, the Lexicon PCM-70 can be integrated into a modern DAW setup using appropriate analog-to-digital converters, allowing you to leverage its classic reverb sounds in digital productions.

What is the user interface like on the Lexicon PCM-70?

The Lexicon PCM-70 features a straightforward interface with a digital display and tactile controls, making it user-friendly for quick adjustments and parameter settings during sessions.

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Reverb: What is the Lexicon sound?

Video thumbnail for Reverb: What is the Lexicon sound? by Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Reverb: What is the Lexicon sound?

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Video thumbnail for Demo :: Lexicon PCM70 Reverbs on SH101 (Aphex Riff) by SOLON Music

Demo :: Lexicon PCM70 Reverbs on SH101 (Aphex Riff)

SOLON Music

SOLON Music

Video thumbnail for A Lexicon PCM70 in a Pedal!?! Yes. by Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

A Lexicon PCM70 in a Pedal!?! Yes.

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Video thumbnail for Lexicon PCM70 vs 480L by Espen Kraft

Lexicon PCM70 vs 480L

Espen Kraft

Espen Kraft

Video thumbnail for Lexicon PCM70. by Retrosonic Pro Audio

Lexicon PCM70.

Retrosonic Pro Audio

Retrosonic Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for Lexicon PCM70 by Leon Todd

Lexicon PCM70

Leon Todd

Leon Todd

Video thumbnail for Demo :: Lexicon PCM70 on TR8 + Reface CS (Aphex Ageispolis Riff) by SOLON Music

Demo :: Lexicon PCM70 on TR8 + Reface CS (Aphex Ageispolis Riff)

SOLON Music

SOLON Music

Video thumbnail for How to use outboard reverb in Pro Tools | Lexicon PCM 70 / Yamaha SPX 90 by Seawell Studios

How to use outboard reverb in Pro Tools | Lexicon PCM 70 / Yamaha SPX 90

Seawell Studios

Seawell Studios

Video thumbnail for Cheap vs Expensive Reverb : Lexicon PCM70 vs Korg DRV1000 by Clifton Wright

Cheap vs Expensive Reverb : Lexicon PCM70 vs Korg DRV1000

Clifton Wright

Clifton Wright

Reviews

PROS

  • Customizable patches allow for unique sound creation

  • Includes revered presets like "Tiled Room" and "Long Hall"

  • Superior sound quality, outperforms top software reverbs

  • Can produce classic 80's sound with direct instrument input

  • MIDI in/out/thru for versatile live and studio applications

  • Offers mono to stereo conversion

  • Repairable by specialists, ensuring longevity

CONS

  • Older units may be prone to failure, hard to fix

  • Does not include an FX loop

  • Editing can be cumbersome compared to older models

  • Sound may not blend well in mixes, very pronounced effect

  • Considered overpriced by some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb.

Comparisons

  • The PCM 70's delay quality is highly praised, often preferred over the Axe FX II's delay for its superior tone.

    Source
  • The SPX 90 may be seen as redundant due to alternatives like the Magicstomp, which offers similar algorithms with easier programming.

    Source
  • The Ensoniq DP4/DP4+ is considered the closest in sound to the Lexicon 224 due to algorithms reverse-engineered by an ex-Lexicon engineer.

    Source
  • The Valhalla Vintage Reverb is often compared to Lexicon hardware but is seen as too precise in pitch shifting compared to the AMS 1580.

    Source
  • The Lexicon PCM 70 is often preferred over plugins for its unique character, particularly when compared to ITB options like Altiverb and Valhalla.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • PCM 70 is optimized for stereo use, and using it in mono might not fully utilize its algorithmic potential.

    Source
  • The Lexicon 224's preamps and transformer-coupled outputs significantly contribute to its unique, expansive sound profile.

    Source
  • The PCM 70's sound is highly valued for its distinctiveness, especially in creating three-dimensional spaces that some users feel plugins can't replicate.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • PCM 70 is favored for metal solos, but its nuances may be lost in heavy gain contexts.

    Source
  • For hardware reverb under $2k, consider pairing a used PCM 70 with various plugins to maximize both hardware uniqueness and software flexibility.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Consider cheaper Lexicon models like the LXP-1 or MXP-1 for adequate delay and chorus effects without investing in a PCM 70.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Electrolytic capacitors in older Lexicon units need replacing every 30 years, and parts might be difficult to source.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note an intuitive interface on the Model 200 and Prime Time delay units, enhancing user interaction compared to software.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • It's suggested to use the PCM 70 with firmware version 2.0 for optimal performance and feature set.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Lexicon PCM70 (HSR Feb 86)

muzines.co.uk

The Lexicon PCM-70 is a versatile effects processor offering more than just reverb, with capabilities including flanging, chorus, and a unique resonant chord program. Its MIDI compatibility allows dynamic control over effects, making it a valuable tool for electronic music studios. The unit lacks a reverse reverb preset, which some might miss, but its comprehensive handbook and user-friendly interface ensure easy operation. While the price may place it above budget options, its innovative features and flexibility justify the investment for serious musicians needing diverse effects.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 10 Ratings

5 star
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jimmarchi1

Still expensive, sound matches price point if you're into lexicon reverb.

A crisper sounding pcm60. Mono to stereo. No fx loop. MIDI in, out and thru. If you like the 60 you'll like the 70. Just a more modern flavor of the 60 with more of everything. Midi patch selection makes it great for live performance or FOH where you need different verbs every tune. Editing is less fun than the 60 but the screen is better. Very complex sound but as a result it doesn't tuck in a mix as well as the 60. You KNOW it's on an aux send. Kinda overpriced these days.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Tiled room.

atonalmeasure

Dark

Dark, massive 224 style reverbs.. loved it.. but a bit too limited for my small studio..

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Primitive World uses Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb

Primitive World

Music Producer

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

Primitive World discusses using the Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb in their studio setup, noting its high cost when it was first released. This information is featured in an article by Adam Gilbert for Attack Magazine.

See how Colin Towns uses Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb

Colin Towns

Composer

Gillan

...
Verified via Soundonsound

"The Lexicon PCM70's all right but I don't use that much any more. I mostly use the TC Electronic M5000, which is very good. I'm stuck on 'Large Hall' at the moment!"

See how Paul Robb uses Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb

Paul Robb

Keyboardist, Composer

Information Society

...
Verified via Soundonsound

List of effects at Paul Robb's studio:

Aphex Type C2 Exciter. BBE 462 Sonic Maximiser enhancer. Drawmer DL241 dual compressor. "I generally strap this across the stereo buss. At some point I'd like to get a better compressor, though." Boss SE50. Boss SE70. "I primarily use these for distortion." Digitech VFX Valve FX. "This is an awesome distortion box. It's so bright it will rip your head off." Ensoniq DP/2. "I also use this primarily for distortion. All four of my distortion boxes [Digitech Valve FX, Roland SE50 and SE70, Ensoniq DP2] are absolutely critical to me. They're indispensable. I rarely use synthesizers anymore without running them through a guitar box." Eventide H3000 multi‑effects. FMR Audio RNC1773 Really Nice Compressor (x3). "These are my new favourite boxes. They make them in Texas, and they're incredibly cheap — 179 dollars, I think it was. But they're great, and on a par with the Drawmer compressor." Focusrite Red 2 Dual EQ. "It's mostly just gorgeous looking! Everyone who comes in here notices it. It looks like a piece of candy, you just want to bite on it. The thing is, it's so intimidating to look at, you really can't tell if it's any good or not — it doesn't need to be any good! I like it, though it's not quite good enough to strap across the whole mix: the EQ3D is on a par, even though it's half the price." Focusrite Red 7 Voice Channel. "This has a mic pre, a compressor, an enhancer and a de‑esser in it, which we use for recording vocals." Lexicon MPX1 multi‑effects. Lexicon PCM70 multi‑effects. Nightpro EQ3D filter. Peavey Analog Filter. "I actually very rarely use this. I've run some loops through it to make them sound crunchy and lo‑fi and it works OK. These techno people use outboard filters all the time — it's just that this one isn't a particularly good one, and I can't justify spending a grand on something like the Waldorf DPole or the Mutator." Roland SDE1000. "I just use this for simple delays." Roland SRV2000 reverb. SPL Vitalizer. "I think this is a lot more popular in Britain than it is here. I like it, but it has so much background hiss that I can only use it in loud noisy music. The great thing about it is the way it spreads the stereo fields, it's got some kind of phase." TC Electronic M2000 multi‑effects. Yamaha SPX90 multi‑effects. "This was the first effects box I ever bought and it's totally on its last legs. I keep it for its stereo split program, because it sounds so grainy and nice."

See how Ethan Johns uses Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb

Ethan Johns

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Having gone out to various studios to produce sessions, these days Ethan Johns always returns to his Three Crows home studio to mix the results. Working with an API desk and Ampex 24-track, along with his RADAR system and Pro Tools 10, Johns favours outboard over plug-ins, his effects workhorses including the Roland R880, the Eventide DSP4000 and the Lexicon PCM70.

See how Dubka uses Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb

Dubka

...
Verified via YouTube

In a studio tour video by MusicRadar Tech on YouTube, Dubka showcases the Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb as part of his recording setup.

See how Brent Rowan uses Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb

Brent Rowan

Guitarist, Music Producer

The Rambos

...
Verified via Vintage Guitar® magazine

Brent Rowan confirms he uses the Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb in his rack for circular delays, as stated in an interview with Zac Childs for Vintage Guitar® magazine.

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-70 Reverb, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Yamaha SPX90 Effects Processors
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Lexicon PCM 80
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Roland SH-101 Synthesizers
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Yamaha NS10 Studio Monitor Active & Passive Monitors
5
Lexicon 480L
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5
BSS Audio DPR-402
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4
E-mu SP-1200
E-mu SP-1200 Production & Groove
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