Sound Pure's Take

The Lexicon PCM70 Version 2.0 is an iconic 1U rackmount digital effects processor that holds a legendary status in classic studio production. Known for its lush, spacious reverberation, intricate multitap delays, and uniquely organic modulation effects, Version 2.0 represents the definitive firmware iteration for the PCM70 hardware platform, fixing early MIDI limitations and expanding its landmark algorithm set.

Powered by Lexicon’s proprietary digital signal processing architecture, the PCM70 V2.0 excels at creating dynamic, decaying soundscapes that melt effortlessly into a mix rather than sitting on top of it. Its algorithm suite—highlighted by Rich Plate, Concert Hall, Chorus+Echo, and Resonant Chords—defined the sound of 1980s and 90s pop, rock, and ambient recordings. The Resonant Chords algorithm in particular allows engineers to tune six independent delay lines to specific musical notes, transforming simple inputs into haunting, harmonized ambient pads.

The Lexicon PCM70 Version 2.0 is a timeless digital processor that remains a secret weapon in world-class mixing and sound-design suites. If you are seeking genuine 80s/90s vintage reverb density, haunting ambient modulation, and the legendary Rich Plate algorithm in a classic hardware rack, the PCM70 V2.0 is an absolute essential.

From Lexicon

The Lexicon PCM 70 has become something of a legend of late, with good examples selling for the same money or more, than what they sold for when new. It is ironic really...when the Lexicon PCM 70 was released everyone said it was not a 'real' Lexicon. While it may not be a 224X, released the same year, it does offer a taste of the Lexicon sound.

The Lexicon PCM 70 Digital Effects Processor gives you access to the same astonishing digital effects used by the world's top artists and studios - all in a compact single-space rack mount unit.

The Lexicon PCM 70 offers more than 40 digital effects and reverb programs, including chorus and echo, resonant chords, multiband delays, rich chamber, rich plate, and concert hall. Add to these the 50 programs you can create and store in user registers, and you have instant access to more than 90 programs.

If creative control is what you are after, more than 70 different parameter types can be edited to produce just the sound you need. Everything from delay times to feedback, filters, panning, and early reflections.

Great sounds are only half the story. The Lexicon PCM 70 introduces revolutionary MIDI capabilities that will change forever the way the world uses effects. Lexicon's Dynamic MIDI gives you real-time remote control over up to ten different parameters at the same time from a MIDI keyboard or sequencer.

You can patch any effects or reverb parameter to any variable MIDI controller on your synthesiser-modulation wheel, pitch wheel, data entry slider, sustain switch, and others. You can also patch parameters to vary with MIDI events like key velocity, pressure, or aftertouch.

The Lexicon PCM 70 offers more than 40 digital effects and reverb programs, including chorus and echo, resonant chords, multiband delays, rich chamber, rich plate, and concert hall. Add to these the 50 programs you can create and store in user registers, and you have instant access to more than 90 programs.

If creative control is what you are after, more than 70 different parameter types can be edited to produce just the sound you need. Everything from delay times to feedback, filters, panning, and early reflections.

Great sounds are only half the story. The Lexicon PCM 70 introduces revolutionary MIDI capabilities that will change forever the way the world uses effects. Lexicon's Dynamic MIDI gives you real-time remote control over up to ten different parameters at the same time from a MIDI keyboard or sequencer.

You can patch any effects or reverb parameter to any variable MIDI controller on your synthesiser modulation wheel, pitch wheel, data entry slider, sustain switch, and others. You can also patch parameters to vary with MIDI events like key velocity, pressure, or aftertouch.

If you have a sequencer, control changes sent to the Lexicon PCM 70 from your keyboard or controller can be recorded and repeated perfectly-every time. A corresponding register feature lets you choose effects or reverb programs remotely, from sequencers, synthesisers, and other MIDI devices. To top it all off, an innovative and uncomplicated user interface ensures that you can access all of this power quickly and easily.

These features give the Lexicon PCM 70 capabilities far beyond any other effects processor available, at the time. However, the Yamaha SPX90 was hot on its heels for less money, but the Lexicon PCM70 did find it's place in the studio's of musicians with deeper pockets.

Released in
1985
Made in
U.S.A.
Frequency Response
  • Processed Signal: 20 Hz to 15 kHz, ±1 dB o Direct Signal: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.25 dB
Dynamic Range
  • Processed Signal: 80 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz noise bandwidth
Total Harmonic Distortion and Noise
  • Processed Signal: <0.05% @ 1 kHz and full level o Direct Signal: <0.025% @ 1 kHz @ 3V out
Audio Input
  • Levels:
  • +4 dB; -8 to +18 dBV balanced
  • 20 dB; -23 to +3 dBV unbalanced
  • Impedance:
  • +4 dB; 40 kilohms, paralleled with 150 pF (balanced)
  • 20 dB; >500 kilohms, paralleled with 150 PF (unbalanced)
  • Connector: 1/4" tip/ring/sleeve phone jack
Audio Outputs (Two)
  • Levels:
  • +4 dB; +10 dBV into 600 ohms ■+16 dBV into >10 kilohms
  • 20 dB; -8 dBV into >10 kilohms
  • Impedance: 600 ohm unbalanced
  • Connectors: 1/4" tip/sleeve phone jack
Dimensions
483mm x 45mm x 344mm
Weight
4.9 kg
Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.

$1,145