Zen Delay returns as XEN FX LAB with spring reverb and dub mode

XEN FX LAB is the follow-up to Zen Delay, a delay and multi-effect that began as hardware and later became a software hit. The new version adds a modeled spring reverb, a dub mode and a round of performance optimizations, CDM reports. It runs on macOS and Windows as VST3, AU and standalone, and also has an iOS edition.

The name changes from Zen to XEN. The core stays as it was: a delay with six modes, a virtual analog filter with resonance, and tube drive. The modes are now labeled more clearly and are tape, tape ping-pong, digital ping-pong, digital and vintage. The optimizations are meant to make the plug-in lighter on the CPU.

Spring reverb with its own controls

The spring reverb has parameters beyond decay. A tension control sets how tight the spring is. As in a real spring tank, the reverb sits at the end of the signal chain and affects both the wet and the dry sound. Wet/dry and the spring mix can still be set separately.

REGEN sends the input back through the tank to create spring feedback. That can produce ringing drones, including ones the user did not intend, so the control needs care with the input level, drive and feedback settings.

STRIKE knocks the virtual tank, much like slapping an amp. STRIKE and DUB can both be assigned to MIDI, so they can be played live.

Dub mode

In dub mode the signal stays dry until the user presses or holds the DUB button. Then it passes through the delay, and through the spring if that is selected. After DUB is released, the ringing echoes keep going while new input plays over them.

The editing panel from the earlier plug-in is still there, with modulation of cutoff and time plus X AM and X FM features.

The desktop version is available now. The iOS version is expected soon, pending Apple approval, which had not come when CDM published its write-up.

The plug-in comes from Liquid Sky d-vices and is on sale at Plugin Boutique. CDM also notes it may earn a commission on purchases made through its links.

Source: CDM Create Digital Music