The AudioScape XL-305R is a modern revival of the iconic MicMix XL-305 Spring Reverb from 1979, renowned for its groundbreaking design and legendary sonic character. Featuring a unique 12-spring assembly, all tuned together in an “equally tempered” manner, it delivers an unparalleled echo chamber effect that is both rich and diffuse. This design mimics the experience of opening a piano lid, holding the damper open, and singing into the strings, creating a smooth and musical reverb tone that avoids the typical “boing” effect associated with many spring reverbs.
With the guidance of Wayne Kirkwood, the original XL-305 designer, and four years of meticulous R&D, AudioScape has reimagined this classic design from the ground up. Every aspect, from the electronics and spring decay times to the modern workflow and aesthetic improvements, has been carefully crafted to honour the original while enhancing its functionality for today’s studios. The AudioScape XL-305R is not just a recreation; it’s an evolution of a design that stood out in its time and continues to captivate engineers today.
Features:
- 2U rack design with an international external power supply for superior noise performance and reliability.
- Input controls with signal overload LEDs to manage levels sent to the spring tank, ensuring clean and precise operation.
- Mix controls to blend the dry and wet signals, complemented by parallel/wet toggle switches. These switches allow full-wet operation or a 50% wet blend when the mix controls are maxed out.
- 4-band centre-detent EQ per channel, offering a wide range of tone-shaping options for the wet signal.
- Mono Drive and Mono Return push-button switches for stereo linking and mono summing, simplifying stereo imaging and routing.
- LED output meters for monitoring the total output level of the reverb signal.
The AudioScape XL-305R’s equally tempered spring design is what truly sets it apart. Unlike other spring reverbs that rely on random delays or basic spring configurations, this system follows a logarithmic progression similar to a musical scale, delivering a sound that’s natural, diffuse, and musical. Whether you’re adding subtle depth or crafting lush, atmospheric reverb tails, the AudioScape XL-305R excels at both.
This AudioScape XL-305R reverb unit offers the perfect mix of vintage authenticity and modern features, making it ideal for a variety of applications. Its design enables it to sound plate-like with gentle input settings, while harder input levels bring out the classic spring character that defined the original. Whether it’s adding shimmer to vocals, creating depth in a drum mix, or enhancing stereo acoustic instruments, the XL-305R is a versatile tool that fits seamlessly into any workflow.
The origins of the AudioScape XL-305R date back to the MasterRoom reverb system, born from an accidental discovery by William “Bill” Hall. Initially developed as part of an acoustic burglar alarm project, Hall realised that his equally tempered spring design provided a diffuse, natural reverb effect unmatched by other systems. This innovation was refined further by Wayne Kirkwood, who later integrated the design into the XL-305.
Hall’s logarithmic spring progression was a breakthrough, creating a sound closer to natural acoustic spaces than the “boingy” tones of other spring reverbs. Kirkwood preserved this design philosophy, passing it on to AudioScape, who have now brought the XL-305R into the modern era. By remaining true to its roots while incorporating modern enhancements, the AudioScape XL-305R pays homage to this rich legacy.
While staying true to the original design, AudioScape has added key features that improve usability. The inclusion of a 160Hz high-pass filter in the sidechain allows low-end material – such as sub-heavy kick drums, basslines, and synths—to pass through the compressor untouched, while everything above 160Hz is processed as usual. This ensures the clarity and aggressiveness of your low-end are maintained without sacrificing overall mix transparency.
Handcrafted in the USA, the AudioScape XL-305R is built with precision and pride. Every unit is meticulously assembled to deliver the highest quality performance and reliability, offering users a truly boutique experience. Unlike mass-produced imitations, the AudioScape XL-305R embodies the spirit of the original while elevating it for today’s demanding audio environments.
The AudioScape XL-305R is more than a reverb; it’s a piece of history brought back to life with modern enhancements. Its unique design, groundbreaking sound, and intuitive features make it an indispensable tool for engineers and producers seeking authentic, character-rich reverb. Whether used for subtle ambience or lush, immersive effects, the XL-305R delivers unmatched performance with a timeless analogue charm.
