PSP Lexicon PSP42 — Free Download

Purpose and Core Function

PSP Lexicon PSP42 is a digital stereo delay and phrase sampler plugin that recreates the character of the classic Lexicon PCM42 hardware processor. It emulates the variable sampling rate delay line and tape saturation algorithm that gave the original its distinctive sound. Version 2 refines the audio path modeling, giving you control over how much of the original hardware’s character to introduce.

The plugin offers four processing modes. Legacy mode matches the previous version’s sound. Clean mode provides a pristine signal path with no emulation. Lims mode engages two opto limiters, one at the input and one before the A/D converter, which affect the dry/wet and wet/feedback signals respectively. Full mode adds emulation of the hardware’s A/D and D/A converters, whose non-linear behavior contributed to the unique sonic twist.

Key Capabilities and New Features

Version 2 extends beyond the original hardware with a maximum delay time of 28800 ms, which depends on the internal sampling frequency. You can adjust a Hi-Cut filter frequency to model high-frequency absorption. The LFO can sync to host tempo and you can adjust its waveform phase.

Four Direction modes simulate various forward and backward repeat options. A Bypass button keeps the input limiter in the signal path, adding subtle coloration to dry signals. All these new functions are presented on an Extensions panel, keeping the standard controls uncluttered.

Workflow and Modulation

The modulation section is central to the plugin’s versatility, using the PCM 42’s trick of changing delay time by altering the sampling rate. You can mix three modulation sources (sine, square, envelope detector) in any proportion. The LFO can run free at a rate in Hz or tempo-synced in beats/bars. This allows everything from gentle animation and swing to unpredictable, alien sound effects.

Superior DSP algorithms ensure smooth operation even with extreme settings. Parameter filtering and on-the-fly crossfades prevent clicks and zipper noise. The plugin also functions as a phrase sampler, letting you capture and manipulate audio loops. It supports sample rates up to 384 kHz, and an extensive preset library provides starting points for various effects.

Practical Applications

Lexicon PSP42 excels at all types of delay-based effects. Use it for tempo-locked feedback delay with filtering, or modulate the delay time to create flanging and chorus effects. The variable sampling rate allows for pitch-shifting-like effects, and the Direction modes enable reverse playback, making it ideal for creating risers, sweeps, and rhythmic textures.

In a mix, you can use the Lims or Full modes to add analog-style saturation to delay repeats, gluing them to the track. The sidechain envelope detector can make the delay respond to other elements, such as a kick drum, for ducking or rhythmic gating. The phrase sampler function is useful for live looping in performance or for creating unique soundscapes in production. Its flexibility suits sound design, music production, and live use.

Key features

• High-quality signal processing algorithms
• Up to 28800 ms delay time, depending on internal sampling frequency
• Tape saturation emulation based on PSP mastering processor algorithms
• Analog limiter and A/D, D/A converter emulation
• Four processing modes: Legacy, Clean, Lims, Full
• Three modulation sources: sine, square, envelope detector
• Sidechain input for envelope detector
• Four record/playback directional modes

Best for

Lexicon PSP42 is best for producers and sound designers seeking a versatile delay and phrase sampler with vintage character. It excels at tempo-synced delays, modulated effects like chorus and flanging, and reverse playback. The multiple saturation modes make it suitable for adding analog warmth to delays in music production, and its phrase sampler capability suits live looping and creative sound design.