Overloud BREVERB 2 V2.1.10: The Best Features, Tips, and Tricks for Getting the Most Out of It
Overloud BREVERB 2 V2.1.10 Review: The Ultimate Reverb Plugin?
Reverb is one of the most essential effects in audio production. It can create a sense of space, depth, and realism for your sounds, or add color, texture, and atmosphere to your mixes. Whether you are working on music, film, or game audio, you need a good reverb plugin that can handle any situation.
Overloud BREVERB 2 V2.1.10
But with so many reverb plugins available on the market today, how do you choose the right one for your needs? How do you find a balance between quality and versatility, between realism and creativity? In this article, we will review one of the most popular reverb plugins out there: Overloud BREVERB 2 V2.1.10. This plugin claims to be the ultimate solution for any recording, mixing, and live need. It boasts seven algorithmic reverbs from the '80s and '90s that are modeled after the most sought-after hardware units. It also offers additional features such as a full EQ section, a nonlinear section, and more than 270 presets. It also promises to deliver high-quality sound with low CPU usage and latency. But is Overloud BREVERB 2 really the ultimate reverb plugin? How does it compare to other reverb plugins on the market? What are its strengths and weaknesses? And most importantly, is it worth your money? In this article, we will answer these questions and more. We will explore the history, algorithms, features, performance, price, pros and cons, and verdict of Overloud BREVERB 2. We will also provide you with some FAQs on this plugin to help you make an informed decision. So, if you are interested in learning more about Overloud BREVERB 2 V2.1.10, keep reading!
The History of Reverb Plugins
Before we dive into the details of Overloud BREVERB 2, let's take a look at the history of reverb plugins and how they evolved from hardware units to software solutions.
Reverb is the natural phenomenon of sound reflecting off surfaces in an enclosed space. It creates a sense of ambience and depth for the listener. Reverb can be found in any environment, from a small room to a large hall, from a cave to a cathedral.
In the early days of audio recording, engineers used physical spaces or devices to create reverb effects for their sounds. For example, they would record in large rooms or halls, use echo chambers or spring reverbs, or send signals to metal plates or coils that would vibrate and produce reverberations.
However, these methods had some limitations and drawbacks. They were expensive, bulky, noisy, difficult to control, and not very flexible. They also depended on the availability and quality of the physical spaces or devices.
In the late '70s and early '80s, digital technology revolutionized the field of reverb. Engineers developed digital reverb units that used algorithms to simulate the behavior of sound waves in different spaces. These units were more affordable, compact, clean, precise, and versatile than their analog counterparts. They also allowed users to adjust various parameters such as decay time, pre-delay, diffusion, damping, modulation, and EQ.
Some of the most famous digital reverb units from this era were the Lexicon 224, 480L, and 960L. These units were used by many legendary artists and producers such as Pink Floyd, U2, Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and more. They became the industry standard for creating lush and realistic reverbs for music and film.
In the late '80s and early '90s, another wave of innovation came with the advent of convolution reverb. Convolution reverb is a technique that uses impulse responses (IRs) to capture the acoustic characteristics of real spaces or devices. IRs are short audio recordings that contain all the information about how sound behaves in a given space or device. By applying IRs to any sound source, convolution reverb can recreate the exact sound of that space or device.
Some of the most famous convolution reverb units from this era were the Sony DRE-S777 and the TC Electronic System 6000. These units were able to reproduce the sound of any space or device with stunning accuracy and realism. They were used by many renowned engineers and studios such as George Massenburg, Bob Clearmountain, and Abbey Road, among others. They became the ultimate tool for creating realistic and immersive reverbs for any application.
However, these units also had some limitations and drawbacks. They were very expensive, complex, and resource-intensive. They also depended on the quality and availability of the IRs. Moreover, they did not offer much flexibility or creativity for users who wanted to tweak or modify the sound of the reverb.
In the late '90s and early 2000s, software technology brought another revolution to the field of reverb. Developers created reverb plugins that could run on computers and digital audio workstations (DAWs). These plugins offered several advantages over hardware units. They were more accessible, affordable, convenient, and compatible. They also offered more features, options, and possibilities for users to create and customize their own reverbs.
Some of the most famous reverb plugins from this era were the Waves IR-1, Altiverb, Space Designer, and SIR. These plugins used convolution reverb technology to emulate the sound of real spaces or devices. They also provided users with a large library of IRs to choose from, as well as some tools to edit and manipulate them.
Other reverb plugins from this era used algorithmic reverb technology to create synthetic reverbs that were not based on real spaces or devices. These plugins gave users more control and flexibility over the sound of the reverb, as well as more creative options to shape and modulate it. Some of the most famous algorithmic reverb plugins from this era were the Valhalla DSP series, FabFilter Pro-R, Eventide Blackhole, and Soundtoys Little Plate.
Today, reverb plugins are more advanced and diverse than ever before. They use a combination of convolution and algorithmic technologies to create hybrid reverbs that can blend the best of both worlds. They also offer more features, functions, and presets to cater to any need or taste. Some of the most famous hybrid reverb plugins today are the Slate Digital Verbsuite Classics, LiquidSonics Seventh Heaven, Native Instruments Raum, and Overloud BREVERB 2.
The Algorithms of Overloud BREVERB 2
One of the main selling points of Overloud BREVERB 2 is its algorithms. Overloud BREVERB 2 offers seven algorithmic reverbs that are modeled after the most glorious hardware units from the '80s and '90s. These algorithms are designed to recreate the tone, character, and vibe of those legendary units with high fidelity and accuracy.
Overloud BREVERB 2 has two categories of algorithms: Lexi algorithms and Spaces algorithms. Let's take a closer look at each one.
Lexi Algorithms
The Lexi algorithms are inspired by the famous Lexicon units that defined the sound of reverb in the '80s and '90s. These units were known for their lush, smooth, and rich reverbs that added dimension and warmth to any sound source.
Overloud BREVERB 2 has four Lexi algorithms: Hall LXP-1, Hall 480L, Room 224XL, and Plate 960L. Each algorithm emulates a different model of Lexicon unit with its own characteristics and parameters.
Hall LXP-1
The Hall LXP-1 algorithm is based on the Lexicon LXP-1 unit from 1988. This unit was one of the first affordable digital reverbs that offered high-quality sound and versatility. It had two algorithms: Hall and Plate.
The Hall LXP-1 algorithm simulates a large hall reverb with a long decay time and a smooth tail. It is ideal for creating spacious and ambient sounds that can fill up a mix or add depth to a solo instrument or vocal.
The Hall LXP-1 algorithm has six parameters that you can control: Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Diffusion, Size, High Cut, and Mix. These parameters allow you to adjust the length, delay, density, width, brightness, and balance of the reverb.
Hall 480L
The Hall 480L algorithm is based on the Lexicon 480L unit from 1986. This unit was one of the most iconic and influential digital reverbs of all time. It was used by countless artists and producers across genres and styles. It had four algorithms: Hall, Room, Plate, and Ambience.
The Hall 480L algorithm simulates a large hall reverb with a long decay time and a rich tail. It is ideal for creating lush and smooth sounds that can add dimension and warmth to any sound source.
The Hall 480L algorithm has seven parameters that you can control: Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Diffusion, Size, Spin Rate, Spin Depth, and Mix. These parameters allow you to adjust the length, delay, density, width, modulation rate, modulation depth, and balance of the reverb.
Room 224XL
The Room 224XL algorithm is based on the Lexicon 224XL unit from 1984. This unit was one of the first digital reverbs that offered high-quality sound and versatility. It had six algorithms: Hall A1, Hall B1, Hall C1, Room A0, Room B0, and Plate B0.
The Room 224XL algorithm simulates a small room reverb with a short decay time and a tight tail. It is ideal for creating realistic and intimate sounds that can add presence and clarity to any sound source.
The Room 224XL algorithm has six parameters that you can control: Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Diffusion, Size, High Cut, and Mix. These parameters allow you to adjust the length, delay, density, width, brightness, and balance of the reverb.
Plate 960L
The Plate 960L algorithm is based on the Lexicon 960L unit from 1998. This unit was one of the most advanced and powerful digital reverbs ever made. It had eight algorithms: Hall A1-4, Hall B1-4.
The Plate 960L algorithm simulates a metal plate reverb with a medium decay time and a bright tail. It is ideal for creating metallic and shimmering sounds that can add sparkle and color to any sound source.
The Plate 960L algorithm has seven parameters that you can control: Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Diffusion, Size, Spin Rate, Spin Depth, and Mix. These parameters allow you to adjust the length, delay, density, width, modulation rate, modulation depth, and balance of the reverb.
Spaces Algorithms
The Spaces algorithms are designed to create realistic and immersive spaces for your sounds. They use a proprietary technology called SPACES (Source Positioning Algorithm for Complex Environments Simulation) that allows you to adjust the size, shape, and position of your sound sources in relation to the reverb.
Overloud BREVERB 2 has three Spaces algorithms: Hall, Room, and Inverse. Each algorithm simulates a different type of space with its own characteristics and parameters.
Hall
The Hall algorithm simulates a large and reverberant space such as a concert hall, a church, or a cathedral. It is ideal for creating spacious and majestic sounds that can add grandeur and drama to any sound source.
The Hall algorithm has eight parameters that you can control: Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Diffusion, Size, Shape, Source Width, Source Distance, and Mix. These parameters allow you to adjust the length, delay, density, width, height, stereo width, depth, and balance of the reverb.
Room
The Room algorithm simulates a small and reflective space such as a studio room, a bathroom, or a closet. It is ideal for creating realistic and intimate sounds that can add presence and clarity to any sound source.
The Room algorithm has eight parameters that you can control: Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Diffusion, Size, Shape, Source Width, Source Distance, and Mix. These parameters allow you to adjust the length, delay, density, width, height, stereo width, depth, and balance of the reverb.
Inverse
The Inverse algorithm simulates a space that has no natural reverberation, such as a dead room or an anechoic chamber. It is ideal for creating unnatural and creative sounds that can add contrast and interest to any sound source.
The Inverse algorithm has six parameters that you can control: Decay Time, Pre-Delay, Diffusion, Size, Shape, and Mix. These parameters allow you to adjust the length, delay, density, width, height, and balance of the reverb.
The Features of Overloud BREVERB 2
In addition to its algorithms, Overloud BREVERB 2 also offers some additional features that can enhance and customize your reverb sound. These features include a full EQ section and a nonlinear section. Let's take a closer look at each one.
EQ Section
The EQ section of Overloud BREVERB 2 allows you to tailor the frequency response of your reverb. It provides you with four bands of parametric EQ that you can use to boost or cut specific frequencies of your reverb. You can also adjust the Q factor of each band to make it wider or narrower.
The EQ section of Overloud BREVERB 2 has four parameters for each band: Frequency, Gain, Q Factor, and On/Off. These parameters allow you to adjust the center frequency, the amount of boost or cut, the bandwidth, and the bypass status of each band.
The EQ section of Overloud BREVERB 2 can help you enhance or reduce certain aspects of your reverb sound. For example, you can use it to add brightness or warmth to your reverb, to remove unwanted resonances or mud from your reverb, or to create special effects such as telephone or radio sounds.
Nonlinear Section
The nonlinear section of Overloud BREVERB 2 allows you to creatively shape your reverb sound. It adds a nonlinear component to your reverb that can create dynamic and modulated effects. You can use it to add character, movement, or modulation to your reverb.
The Presets of Overloud BREVERB 2
Another feature that makes Overloud BREVERB 2 a great reverb plugin is its presets. Overloud BREVERB 2 comes with more than 270 factory presets that are designed by top-notch sound engineers and producers. These presets cover any kind of ambience or application that you may need for your audio production.
Some of the categories of presets are: Drums, Guitars, Keyboards, Vocals, Orchestral, Post Production, Special FX, and more. You can also find presets that are inspired by famous songs or albums, such as Pink Floyd's The Wall, U2's The Joshua Tree, or Michael Jackson's Thriller.
The presets of Overloud BREVERB 2 are easy to browse, load, save, and edit. You can access them from a drop-down menu on the top right corner of the plugin interface. You can also use the arrow buttons to navigate through them. You can also search for presets by name or keyword using the magnifying glass icon.
Once you load a preset, you can tweak it to your liking using the parameters and features of the plugin. You can also save your own presets and organize them in folders. You can also import and export presets as files, and share them with other users.
The presets of Overloud BREVERB 2 are a great way to get started with the plugin and to get inspired by its possibilities. They are also a great way to learn how to use the plugin and how to create different types of reverbs for different situations.
The Performance of Overloud BREVERB 2
One of the most important aspects of any reverb plugin is its performance. How does Overloud BREVERB 2 perform in terms of sound quality, CPU usage, and latency?
The answer is: very well. Overloud BREVERB 2 delivers high-quality sound that is comparable to some of the best hardware units on the market. It uses a proprietary technology called ZL (Zero Latency) that allows it to run with no latency at all. This means that you can use it in real time without any delay or phasing issues.
Overloud BREVERB 2 also has a very low CPU usage that makes it suitable for any system and workflow. It uses a proprietary technology called AQUA (Advanced Quality Analysis) that optimizes the processing power according to the settings and parameters of the plugin. This means that you can use multiple instances of the plugin without compromising your system performance.
Overloud BREVERB 2 also has some options that allow you to further optimize its performance for your system and workflow. You can choose between three quality modes: Eco, Normal, and High. These modes affect the sound quality and CPU usage of the plugin. You can also choose between two processing modes: Stereo and True Stereo. These modes affect the stereo image and CPU usage of the plugin.
The Price of Overloud BREVERB 2
Another aspect that you may want to consider when choosing a reverb plugin is its price. How much does Overloud BREVERB 2 cost, and is it worth it?
The answer is: it depends. Overloud BREVERB 2 has a regular price of $169, which is not cheap, but not too expensive either. However, you can often find it on sale or with a discount on various online platforms, such as Plugin Boutique, Sweetwater, or Overloud's own website. You can also get it as part of a bundle with other Overloud plugins, such as the Total Studio 3 Max or the Gems FX Bundle.
So, depending on when and where you buy it, you may get a better deal or a worse deal. But in general, we think that Overloud BREVERB 2 is worth its price, considering its features, performance, and sound quality. It is a versatile and powerful reverb plugin that can compete with some of the best hardware units on the market.
But if you are not sure whether you want to buy it or not, you can always try it before you buy it. Overloud offers a free trial version of BREVERB 2 that you can download from their website and use for 14 days without any limitations. This way, you can test the plugin for yourself and see if it suits your needs and preferences.
The Pros and Cons of Overloud BREVERB 2
To wrap up this review, let's summarize the main pros and cons of Overloud BREVERB 2. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of this reverb plugin:
Pros
It offers seven algorithmic reverbs that are modeled after the most glorious hardware units from the '80s and '90s.
It recreates the tone, character, and vibe of those legendary units with high fidelity and accuracy.
It provides a full EQ section and a nonlinear section to enhance and customize your reverb sound.
It comes with more than 270 factory presets that are designed by top-notch sound engineers and producers.
It delivers high-quality sound with low CPU usage and latency.
It has a user-friendly and intuitive interface that is easy to use and navigate.
It has a free trial version that you can use for 14 days without any limitations.
Cons
It has a regular price of $169, which may be too expensive for some users.
It does not offer convolution reverb technology or impulse responses.
It does not have a randomize function or a lock function to create or preserve your settings.
It does not have a MIDI learn function or automation capabilities.
The Verdict on Overloud BREVERB 2
So, what is our final verdict on Overloud BREVERB 2? Is it the ultimate reverb plugin?
The answer is: it depends. Overloud BREVERB 2 is not a perfect reverb plugin. It has some flaws and limitations that may make it unsuitable for some users or situations. It also has some strong competitors on the market that may offer more features or options for different needs or tastes.
However, Overloud BREVERB 2 is also a great reverb plugin. It has many strengths and benefits that may make it ideal for many users or situations. It also has some unique selling points that may s