REVERB DILEMMA or TOP OF THE LINE OR NOT

[Jack Hammer]

So here is the rub. I could purchase a PCM 91 but...an MPX1 has been highly recommended. In the meantime, there was an MPX 500 that now seems to have morphed into the 550 though I don't know if anyone has them yet. I really don't know what to do. Is it simply better to get the top of the line or "industry standard" device and build from there. Or, on the other hand, should that amount of money be used to purchase a greater variety of gear that does more. I looked at the Lexicn sight which had some reviews. Though the 500 is gone, the reviewers loved it and I suppose this would also be true of the 550. The reviewers also loved the MPX1.

I tend to think of the subject this way. The pros for a PCM 91 is that it is the de facto industry standard. It will retain its value the best, attract customers to my studio (assuming I want any but that is another story for another time) and, I assume it will give be sound better than the less expensive devices.

Cons - Cost, not stereo, expensive, that amount of money can purchase an MPX1 and a 550 or a TC M-One or possible an MPX1 a MPX 550 and the card based UAD plug-ins of the Real Pro Reverb (I think that is the name) LA2A, 1176, etc.

What would you do and why.

P.S. How 'bout some help here fellas (and gals), a little of the dazzling expertise would be nice right about now.

 

[Captain Nuke'em]

I tend to think of the subject this way. The pros for a PCM 91 is that it is the de facto industry standard. It will retain its value the best, attract customers to my studio (assuming I want any but that is another story for another time) and, I assume it will give be sound better than the less expensive devices.

You just answered your own question rite there!!! Why buy 2 or 3
good 'Verb boxes, when you can have a GREAT efx unit!
Stick with the PCM!!!

 

[littledog]

Industry standards are relative. If the PCM91 is the industry standard, what does that make the 480 or 960? How about a TC5000? Or the Sony Sampling Reverb?

Bottom line is if you like the sounds. The MPX1 may be plenty good enough, especially if buying the PCM91 means you will be skimping in other more needed areas.

If you do decide to spring for the 91, you may want to check it against the TC3000. If all you need is accurate realistic spaces, the Quantec Room Simulator will proabably blow both of them away, although you will probably have to look for used on e-bay to get one at the same price.

 

[Jack Hammer]

End result

The end result is i ended up with the PCM 81 becuase it had the verb sounds I like and other effects too. I am, so far, quite pleased with it. The other end result is that one reverb will never be enough and from here I will build the system. Prbably go for a TC 3000 or Eventide Eclipse next but for now, I have a new and very nice effects processor to learn, use and enjoy. Also, one last thing that occurred to me. In all my ranting about t his one or that, I did finally realize that one of the most mportant parts of the equipment purchase equation is the qu estion of what you want to use it for. If it is a guitar processor then maybe there is a particular processor better for that. For vx, something else, etc...