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Chapter 11 Reverb 131
If you’re going for a natural-sounding, harmonic reverb, the transition between the
early reflections and the reverb tail should be as smooth and seamless as possible. Set
the Initial Delay so that it is as long as possible, without a noticeable gap between the
early reflections and the reverb tail.
Setting Density and Diffusion
Ordinarily, you want the signal to be as dense as possible. However, use of a lower
Density value means the effect eats up less computing power. Beyond this, in rare
instances, a high Density value can color the sound, which you can fix by simply
reducing the Density knob value. Conversely, if you select a Density value that is too
low, the reverb tail will sound grainy.
High Diffusion values represent a regular density, with few alterations in level, times,
and panorama position. Low Diffusion values result in the reflection density becoming
irregular and grainy. The stereo spectrum changes, too.
Setting the Reverb Time
Reverb Time is commonly considered as the amount of time it takes for the level of a
reverb signal to drop by 60 dB. This is why the reverb time is often indicated as RT60.
Most natural rooms have a reverb time somewhere in the range of one to three
seconds, a value which absorbent surfaces and furniture reduces. Large empty halls or
churches have reverb times of up to eight seconds, some cavernous or cathedral-like
venues even beyond that.
Setting the High Cut
Uneven or absorbent surfaces (wallpaper, wood paneling, carpets, and so on) tend to
reflect lower frequencies better than higher frequencies. The High Cut filter replicates
this effect. If you set the High Cut filter so that it is wide open, the reverb will sound as
if it is reflecting off stone or glass.
Setting the Reverb Time and Level of the Low Frequency Band
You can use the Low Ratio control to offset the reverb time of the low frequency band.
At 100%, the reverb times for the two bands are identical. At lower values, the reverb
time of the frequencies below the crossover frequency is shorter. At values greater than
100%, the reverb time for low frequencies is longer.
Both of these phenomena occur in nature. In most mixes, a shorter reverb time for bass
frequencies is preferable. As an example, if you’re using the PlatinumVerb on a kick and
snare drum loop, a short reverb time for the kick drum allows you to set a substantially
higher wet signal.