RECORDING May 2023 - 49

-Review by Bill Stunt
PSPaudioware
PSP 285
An obsessive's dream delay
The newest release from Polish audio software developer
PSPaudioware is the fruit of an obsessive exploration of the
effects that can be achieved with variable sample rate delay
lines. Building on the PSP 84 and 85 delay plugins, the PSP
285 delivers everything from simple echoes and reverbs to
deliciously complex time domain effects with pitch-shifting,
resonant filtering, rhythmic pattern effects and beyond.
Quick Feature Overview
The PSP 285 features a semi-modular architecture with up to
ten seconds of variable sample rate delay. The two channels
can be operated independently or linked in stereo or mid/side
modes. From there, things get wild as the PSP 285 includes:
* An audio gate offering detailed control of echo repeats
* A ducking feature-great for thinning out echo density
* Cross-channel feedback
* Six tempo-synced LFO waveforms
* A generous selection of envelopes
* 17 different filter types
* A separate multi-algorithm reverb module
* 64-bit floating-bit signal path
* Sample rates up to 384 kHz
And this is just scratching the surface! The features include
dozens of adjustable knobs, switches, meters and numeric
displays. In semi-modular fashion, many of these features and
functions can be placed at various points in the chain, and
others can be set as modulation sources.
Luckily, a very detailed and well-written manual guides you
through the operational nuts and bolts and dives deeply into
the PSP design philosophy and unique approach.
Follow the Path
The plugin is logically and sectionally organized from left to
right. The delay section features separate left and right channel
controls for setting the delay tempo (including pre-delay) and
the interaction between the two inputs. All delay increments
can be set to time or note values. There are controls for feedback
levels and panning. You can also manually change the
delay line's sample rate and modulation depth.
46 RECORDING May 2023
Mod This!
The Modulation section features three LFO modes and six
LFO waveforms (sine, square, triangle, sawtooth, plus smooth
and sharp random stepping). You can also adjust the phase
offset of the two LFO channels and the proportion of LFO
versus envelope follower. Gate and Ducker has combined
attack and release parameters set as Time, while the Envelope
follower has a combined Time control with an adjustable
attack to release ratio.
Filters
The Filter section has two independent filters. Filter 1 includes
options for modulation signal path, filter type, center frequency
modulation depth and resonance. Filter 2 offers a slimmed-down
control set and a selection of filter types. A Drive control provides
filter saturation ranging from gentle harmonic non-linearity to fullon
distortion. There are eight selectable insert points.
Gate and Duck
The Dynamics section has threshold and speed controls for the
gate and ducker. They both can be placed at various points in
the signal path, selected via drop-down menus in the modules.
Verb
The Reverb selection offers a wide selection of algorithmic reverbs
ranging from ambiances, chambers, rooms, halls, plates
and spring. Reverb can be inserted on the dry signal only,
after the last processing step or after both the delayed and dry
signal mix. You can adjust the reverb decay time and high-frequency
damping. There's also a wet/dry control for insert and
FX bus operation.
RECORDING May 2023

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