HOW SYNTHETIC REVERB CHANGED RECORDING

THE HISTORY OF SYTHETIC REVERBERATION DEVICES

The history of synthetic reverberation devices is closely tied to the evolution of audio technology and the quest for creating artificial reverb effects. Here is a brief overview of the key developments in the history of synthetic reverb devices:

1.  Echo Chambers (1940s):
   • The earliest attempts to create synthetic reverb involved using physical spaces, such as echo chambers. These were essentially dedicated rooms with speakers and microphones that were used to create reverb effects by playing sound and capturing the reflections. Famous examples include the RCA Echo Chamber at the RCA Victor Studios in New York City.
2. Plate Reverbs (1950s):
   • Plate reverb units emerged in the 1950s as a significant breakthrough in synthetic reverb technology. These devices utilized large, vibrating metal plates to generate reverb effects. The EMT 140 Plate Reverb is a well-known example and is celebrated for its warm and distinctive sound.
3. Spring Reverbs (1960s):
   • Spring reverb units, like the AKG BX 20, became popular in the 1960s. They used a system of springs to create reverb by bouncing audio signals back and forth, producing a unique and sometimes characteristically “twangy” sound.
4. Digital Reverbs (late 1970s and 1980s):
   • The late 1970s saw the advent of digital reverb devices. The most significant of these was the EMT 250 Electronic Reverberator, which is often considered one of the first true digital reverb units. It employed digital signal processing to create reverb algorithms and was a milestone in the history of synthetic reverb.
5. Early Digital Processors (1980s):
   • The 1980s witnessed the rise of dedicated digital reverb processors, like the Lexicon 224 and Eventide SP2016. These units offered a range of algorithms and controls for tailoring reverb effects to specific needs.
6. Advancements in the 1990s and Beyond:
   • In the 1990s and beyond, digital technology continued to advance, leading to the development of more sophisticated and versatile reverb processors. Companies like TC Electronic, Yamaha, and Lexicon introduced a range of digital reverb units that provided greater control and better emulation of natural acoustic spaces.
7. Modern Software and Plugins:
   • With the advent of powerful digital audio workstations (DAWs), the use of software reverbs and plugins became prevalent. These software-based reverbs allow for an even wider variety of reverb effects and the emulation of classic hardware units.

Today, synthetic reverb devices come in various forms, from high-end hardware units to affordable guitar pedals and versatile software plugins. They offer a wide range of reverb types, from natural room and hall reverbs to more experimental and creative effects, catering to the diverse needs of musicians, producers, and audio engineers.

SYNTHETIC REVERB IN EARLY USE

The early use of synthetic reverb in recordings had a profound impact on the music industry and audio production. Musicians and producers began to explore the creative possibilities of artificial reverb, and it became an essential element in shaping the sound of popular music. Here are some examples of early recordings that prominently featured synthetic reverb:

1. Elvis Presley – “Heartbreak Hotel” (1956):
   • Elvis Presley’s “Heartbreak Hotel” is often considered one of the first rock ‘n’ roll recordings to make extensive use of artificial reverb. The song’s vocals and guitar were recorded with heavy plate reverb, giving it a distinctive and haunting sound.
2. The Beach Boys – “Good Vibrations” (1966):
   • The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations” is a prime example of innovative studio techniques. It featured an electro-theremin-like instrument called the Electro-Theremin, and its distinctive reverb-drenched sound was achieved using a combination of plate reverb, echo chambers, and other effects.
3. The Beatles – “Tomorrow Never Knows” (1966):
   • The Beatles were pioneers in exploring studio techniques, and “Tomorrow Never Knows” is a notable example. John Lennon’s vocals on the track were heavily treated with artificial reverb and other effects, creating a psychedelic and otherworldly atmosphere.
4. Pink Floyd – “Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun” (1968):
   • Pink Floyd’s early work, particularly the album “A Saucerful of Secrets,” showcased their experimentation with synthetic reverb. “Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun” features prominent reverb effects that contribute to the song’s spacey and hypnotic quality.
5. Led Zeppelin – “When the Levee Breaks” (1971):
   • Led Zeppelin’s “When the Levee Breaks” is known for its iconic drum sound, which was heavily treated with reverb. The band recorded the drums in a stairwell and then added further reverb in post-production, resulting in a massive and thunderous sound.
6. David Bowie – “Heroes” (1977):
   • Brian Eno, the producer of David Bowie’s “Heroes,” was known for his innovative use of synthetic reverb and other studio effects. The album’s title track, “Heroes,” features Eno’s distinct treatment of the vocals, giving them a sense of grandeur and space.
7. Kraftwerk – “Autobahn” (1974):
   • Kraftwerk’s pioneering electronic music often made use of reverb effects to create a futuristic and immersive sonic landscape. “Autobahn,” the title track of their album, uses synthetic reverb to enhance the sense of movement and space.

These early recordings highlight the creative ways in which artists and producers embraced synthetic reverb to shape the sonic landscapes of their music. As technology continued to advance, the use of reverb and other studio effects became even more sophisticated and integral to the recording process.

DEFINING THE CHARACTERISTICS BETWEEN TYPES OF SYNTHETIC REVERB