We’re starting to see the emergence of hybrid signal processing solutions that marry the convenience and workflow advantages of plug-ins with the tactile immediacy of hardware control. A few of these efforts have taken the form of software control for 500 Series modules; but in the case of TC Electronic’s recently launched initiative, it’s the reverse: a plug-in with a dedicated hardware control interface. TC’s latest effort is the DVR-250DT, inspired by the EMT 250, a legendary vintage digital reverb unit that was the first digital reverb ever made. The DVR-250DT delivers the meticulously modeled sound of this expensive and highly sought-after pro audio icon, complete with its six modes of operation: Reverb, Delay, Phasing, Chorus, Echo, and Space. You get all the benefits of software: full DAW integration and automation, multiple instantiations, and project recall — and for intuitive, hands-on control there’s a beautifully designed hardware controller.
The DVR-250DT’s diminutive hardware controller is an exquisite, jewel-like affair with an elegant brushed black aluminum top plate fitted with short-travel tactile-feedback buttons, LED ladders, and “lollypop” parameter-shift toggles — a miniature replica of the Buck Rogers–style controls on the original.
Despite its small stature, the DVR-250DT’s build quality is military-grade. This is actually the second entry in this format size; TC Electronic previously released the TC2290-DT Hybrid Delay unit, based on the company’s legendary TC2290 rackmount delay unit of the 1980s. Having both units in your studio not only sounds great but give your studio an air of amazing vintage gear as well.
Introduced in 1976 with a price tag of $20,000 (that would be around $89,000 in 2018 dollars), the original EMT 250 hardware unit is widely considered to be one of the best-sounding reverb effects ever made. It’s also quite rare, with only about 250 units ever produced, and vintage units in working condition cost a small fortune — if you can find one. But no worries; the TC Electronic DVR-250DT is even better — and it’s affordable for studios of any size. What does it sound like? It possesses the ability to bring a wide range of sources to life in a way that modeled plate, room, and hall reverbs cannot. The unique sound of the DVR-250DT can add new sonic dimensions to any project.
Learn more about the DVR 250 here.
