A prominent figure in the development of commercially-available digital reverb, Lexicon released the 480L as a more sophisticated successor to the revered M224. Like the 224, the 480L features several reverb modelling algorithms and detailed configurability of settings via the LARC (Lexicon Alphanumeric Remote Control). It’s unique 18-bit linear analog-to-digital/digital-to-analog converters and 98dB dynamic range made it the first digital reverb device to not raise the overall noise floor of a master recording.

The 480L uses powerful digital processing to generate very detailed reverb sounds, as well as its own collection of effects. It is known for impressively realistic modelling of acoustic space and for the rich timbre of its distinctive algorithms that maintain the harmonic integrity of the signal through to the output. It offers familiar programs such as Hall, Room and Plate models, as well as Ambience settings that can simulate rooms as small as two square meters, to create subtle space around sounds without distinguishable reverb trails – ideal for adding a bit of life and depth to a voice.

Its sound has been a touchstone for the development of subsequent digital reverb designs and to this day remains one of the most popular hardware reverbs used on best-selling records and soundtracks.