Pulsar Audio’s latest emulation plug-in models not one, but six classic spring reverbs, and introduces some additional controls that were not available on the original units. Primavera has been created using modelling rather than sampling, allowing it to offer a greater degree of control than convolution-based alternatives.
Controls
Primavera’s Preamp section begins with a drive control that makes it possible to push the virtual circuitry into saturation. There are two modes on offer: Tube and Germanium, with the first modelling a pentode-based circuit, and the second emulating the sound of a transistor preamp. The frequency range being processed by the plug-in can then be set using variable high- and low-pass filters.
Decay and Predelay controls in the following section do exactly as you’d expect, and are joined by a Width control that provides some adjustment over the effect’s stereo image. The section is also home to some of the additional controls Pulsar Audio have added, which appear in the form of Tension and Excitation dials. The former adjusts the spring tension of the physical model, and the latter can be used to dynamically trigger the well-known sound of a spring being struck.
Finally, an Output section features Mix and Volume controls, along with Ducking and Presence parameters. Adjusting the Ducking control reduces the reverb level in response to the plug-in’s main or side-chain input signal, helping sources to cut through in a mix when using more extreme reverb settings. Presence then offers a fixed boost at a predefined frequency, helping the processed signal to stand out in a mix.
Models
There are six different models that can be selected via a set of buttons in the centre of the GUI. Pulsar Audio provide the following descriptions:
- Great British Spring: Produces a very dense and open sound. This is the cleanest reverb in the plug-in’s selection, and is ideal for vocals and other elements that need to shine above the mix.
- HR12: a very lo-fi type of reverb built in Japan in the late 1960s. Perfect for those who seek a vintage colour, and the characteristic ‘boing’ sound of the springs. Simple, dirty, and effective, this tank has very little low end, which means that the initial attack of the springs is clearly heard, giving it that special lo-fi flavour.
- SR202: Built on a legendary hi-fi consumer reverb, this tank sounds dark, with prominent beats in the reverb tail. It’s the least dense reverb of our selection, with a ‘vibey flutter’, perfect for adding realism to a source.
- RE201: Based on the classic Space Echo RE-201 from Roland, this tank is maybe the most versatile compared to the other choices. With dense and diffuse reverberation tails, it can adapt to any source in any genre. It’s well suited on a lead vocal if you’re looking for some added excitement and colour.
- Tubby: If you're looking for the colour of old-school dub music, this tank gives you a very ‘round’ and ‘watery’ sound, with big beats. A nostalgic effect that works really well on brass, keys or guitars.
- Twang: For this tank, we took our inspiration from the guitar amps that popularised spring reverbs. Widely used in Fender and other classic instrument amplifiers, this reverb gives you the lo-fi sound that you’d expect from vintage gear, with tons of character and colour.
Compatibility
Primavera is supported on PCs running Windows 7 or higher, and Macs running macOS 10.9 and above. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available. It is authorised via PACE’s iLok system, but does not require a USB dongle.
Pricing & Availability
Primavera is available now, and is being offered at an introductory price of $59 until 22 April 2024, after which it will cost $99.
