Effects Timeline
Our Vintage Digital and Analogue Effects timeline now includes Audio Recorders and Classic Music Tracks to help place these effects and devices within the history of recorded music. Any errors, please notify us using our contact form.
1997
Released in 1997
Sony PCM-R500 Digital Audio Recorder
Incorporating Sony's legendary high-reliability 4 D.D. Mechanism, the Sony PCM-R500 sets the standard for professional-use DAT. The Shuttle and Jog Dial offer outstanding operational ease, while extensive interface options and multiple menu modes meet a wide range of application needs.
1997
Released in 1997
Sony PCM-3348HR DASH Multitrack Digital Recorder
The Sony PCM-3348HR is a 48-channel digital multi-track audio recorder supporting 16-bit and 24-bit resolution, using 1/2-inch tape in DASH and DASH PLUS formats. Introduced in the 1990s, it became a professional studio staple for its high audio fidelity and ability to handle complex projects, from album production to film scoring. Its 48-channel capacity made it ideal for large-scale recordings, cementing its place during the shift from analogue to digital recording.
1997
Released in 1997
Otari MX-5050BIII 2ch Analog Audio Tape Recorder
The Otari MX-5050BIII has long been the standard in 1/4" two-track analogue recorders. It features an optimised three-head design and transformerless balanced inputs and outputs to provide superior frequency response, low distortion and high signal-to-noise performance under the most demanding conditions.
1997
Released in 1997
Tascam DA-60 MkII Digital Audio Tape Recorder
The Tascam DA-60MKII is a synchronisable 4-head DAT powerhouse that's perfect for both production and postproduction environments. It delivers superior sound quality, full-featured functionality and durability that studio pros expect from TASCAM.
1997
Released in 1997
Symetrix 571 SPL Computer
The Symetrix 571 SPL Computer is an automatic level controller that adjusts system gain based on ambient noise, ensuring clear audio in changing environments. It features microprocessor control, dual sensing microphones, and real-time adjustments without interrupting the audio signal.
1997
Released in 1997
Symetrix 572 SPL Computer
The Symetrix 572 SPL Computer is an automatic level controller that uses the sound system’s loudspeakers to sense ambient noise, adjusting gain accordingly. It offers reliable, cost-effective control for environments with periodic silence, eliminating the need for external microphones.
1997
Released in 1997
Symetrix 501 Compressor Limiter
The Symetrix 501 Peak/RMS Compressor/Limiter combines precise RMS compression with fast peak limiting, offering professional dynamic control for vocals, instruments, and protection against overloads. Renowned for its clarity, flexibility, and reliability.
1997
Released in 1997
Yamaha A3000 Professional Sampler
The Yamaha A3000 Professional Sampler is a powerful tool for break-beat and phrase sampling, featuring a triple-block effects system, user-friendly interface, and expandable options such as digital I/O and up to 128 MB of additional RAM. Ideal for both studio and live performance, it offers extensive sound-shaping capabilities and intuitive control.
1997
Released in 1997
Klark Teknik DN 7204 Delay + EQ
Klark Teknik offered a broad range og high quality audio processor in the 1980s & 1990s, the Klark Teknik DN 7204 was a combination Delay and EQ. Designed to meet and exceed the needs of the recording, broadcast, installation and live sound industries, the Klark Teknik DN 7204 Programmable Delay Line is a high quality, 2-input, 4-output configurable audio delay line that combines state-of-the-art DSP performance with ease of use.
1997
Released in 1997
Lexicon PCM 91 Digital Reverberator
The Lexicon PCM 91 gives you Lexicon’s renowned high-end reverb effects with a powerful new interface that provides easy access to superbly crafted presets as well as a wealth of programming capabilities for the sound designer. The Lexicon PCM 91 contains a built-in library of 450 reverb effects that simulate realistic halls, rooms and plates, and let you create completely natural, or other-worldly spaces.
1997
Released in 1997
Lexicon PCM 90 Digital Reverberator
The Lexicon PCM 90 gives you Lexicon’s renowned high-end reverb effects with a powerful new interface that provides easy access to superbly crafted presets as well as a wealth of programming capabilities for the sound designer. The Lexicon PCM 90 contains a built-in library of 250 reverb effects that simulate realistic halls, rooms and plates, and let you create completely natural, or other-worldly spaces.
1997
Released in 1997
Tascam DA-98 Digital Multitrack Recorder
The Tascam DA-98 takes all the advantages offered by the DTRS format and significantly ups the ante for the professional and post-production professional alike. With enhanced A/D and D/A convertors, a comprehensive LCD display and full compatibility with the DA-88 and DA-38, the Tascam DA-98 delivers the absolute best in digital multitrack functionality.
1997
Released in 1997
Fostex RD-8 Digital Multitrack Recorder
The Fostex RD-8 is a digital linear multitrack recorder designed specifically for the audio professional and is compatible with the ADAT format recorders from Alesis.
1997
Released in 1997
Fostex CX-8 ADAT Recorder
The Fostex CX-8 operates up to four times faster than the original ADAT, offers an intelligent software-controlled tape transport, a solid, die cast aluminium chassis, and provides built-in digital copying and flexible autolocation, while sounding better than ever. All this at a very affordable price - a new standard in modular digital multitrack recording.
1997
Released in 1997
Fostex D-15 DAT Recorder
The Fostex D-15 started out as the replacement model for the former D-10, but as you can see from the extensive list of new features and functionality, the D-15 represents a new level of price/performance value in a timecode capable DAT recorder.
1997
Released in 1997
DigiTech 2112 Studio Guitar System
The DigiTech 2112 is the most powerful, versatile, and user-friendly guitar preamp/processor available. As the next evolution in high-performance guitar processing from DigiTech, the 2112 surpasses expectations, offering unmatched flexibility and control over your tone and digital effects.
1997
Released in 1997
Ensoniq DP Pro Effects Processor
The Ensoniq DP Pro released in 1997, was the final effects processor to come out of Ensoniq. It came after the success of the DP/4, DP/4+ and DP/2 processors. Unlike the DP/4 & DP/4+, the Ensoniq DP Pro was a stereo effects processor. Sadly, two channels of processing were not all it lost; it also lost the more intuitive interface of the DP/4 series of processors.
1997
Released in 1997
Lexicon PCM 81 Digital Effects Processor
The Lexicon PCM 81 takes over where the Lexicon PCM 80 left off, and adds AES/EBU Digital I/O, includes algorithms and presets from the Pitch FX and Vocal Fix Cards, and adds 24-bit converters for even higher quality audio.
1997
Released in 1997
Lexicon 300L Digital Reverberator
The Lexicon 300L not only contains the finest sounds, as you’ve come to expect from Lexicon, it incorporates new functions. The Lexicon 300L contains the very best of the Lexicon Sound – with new refinements such as dynamic size parameters in the Reverb and Ambience algorithms.
1997
Released in 1997
Otari PD-20 Digital Recorder
The Otari PD-20 is a high-quality, versatile 2-channel recorder and editor with extensive synchronisation, editing, and playback features, designed to replace traditional tape-based recorders in modern studios and broadcast environments.
1997
Released in 1997
Fostex D-90 Digital 8 Track Recorder
Upgrade your studio setup with the Fostex D-90 Digital 8 Track Recorder. Capture every detail of your music with precision and clarity. Explore its intuitive interface and unleash your creativity. Elevate your recording experience today!
1997
Released in 1997
Drawmer DS404 Quad Noise Gate
Crafted to the most exacting standards, the Drawmer DS404 Quad Noise Gate is a perfect counterpart to the globally renowned DS201 Dual Noise Gate, acclaimed as the definitive 'industry standard' gate across the globe.
1997
Released in 1997
DigiTech VCS-1 Dynamics Processor
The DigiTech VCS-1 is a high-performance dynamics controller for recording and live use, featuring a vacuum tube stage, advanced solid-state compression, and "True Logarithmic Compression" for a natural sound. Built with premium components, it ensures clean audio, stability, and long-term reliability after rigorous testing.
1997
Released in 1997
Zoom Studio 1201 Digital Reverb & Multi Effects
The Zoom Studio 1201 is a digital reverb and multi-effects processor with 363 presets and high-quality specs, including 44.1 kHz sampling and 18-bit converters. It’s ideal for creating dynamic tracks with effects like Lo-Fi and KARAOKE.
1997
Released in 1997
AccuVerb Dual Channel Tube Spring Reverb
The Accutronics AccuVerb is a rare, all-tube stereo spring reverb unit, revered for its rich, vintage sound and versatile controls. Equipped with dual channels, LED VU meters, and adjustable input/output levels, it’s designed for professional audio use. Renowned as one of the best spring reverbs ever made, it remains highly sought-after for its exceptional sound quality.
1997
Released in 1997
Korg AM8000R Ambience Multi-Effects Processor
The Korg AM8000R Ambience Multi-Effects Processor offers advanced, high-quality sound processing with a user-friendly interface, extensive effects options, and flexible real-time control at an affordable price.
1997
Released in 1997
Korg DL8000R Digital Multi-Tap Delay
The Korg DL8000R Digital Multi-Tap Delay from Korg offers advanced sound processing with high-quality algorithms, extensive preset programs, flexible real-time control, and powerful studio-friendly features, continuing Korg's legacy of innovative digital delay development.
1998
Released in 1998
Manley Massive Passive Stereo Tube EQ
The Manley Massive Passive is one of the very few highly regarded equalisers ever made. There is the Pultec EQ, and then there is the Manley Massive Passive. Sure, it is a parametric EQ, but with a twist!
1998
Released in 1998
Alesis ADAT LX20 Digital Recorder
For musicians, home studio owners, or users of other ADAT models wishing to supplement an existing system, the Alesis ADAT LX20 provides an economical solution for capturing the power of the award-winning ADAT recording format.
1998
Released in 1998
Alesis M20 Digital Recorder
The Alesis M20 Professional 20 Bit Digital Audio Recorder is a new, professional-quality modular digital multitrack tape recorder that was specifically created for commercial audio recording facilities as well as high-end video and film post-production studios.
1998
Released in 1998
Crane Song Trakker Compressor Limiter
Crane Song Trakker is a high-quality Single Channel Discrete Class A Compressor-Limiter.
1998
Released in 1998
dbx 786 Microphone Preamplifier
The craftsmanship of the dbx 786 precision microphone preamplifier is as stunning as the engineering is innovative.
1998
Released in 1998
dbx 586 Tube Preamplifier
Mic preamps have long been a part of dbx's reputation as the leader in signal processing technology. In keeping with that proven tradition, dbx proudly enters the vacuum tube domain with the dbx 586 Dual Vacuum Tube Preamp.
1998
Released in 1998
dbx 576 Tube Preamplifier/Compressor
With innovative, state-of-the-art engineering, the dbx 576 Vacuum Tube Preamp/Compressor carries the dbx heritage into the vacuum tube arena.
1998
Released in 1998
dbx 566 Tube Compressor
The inclusion of 2 vacuum tubes makes the dbx 566 Vacuum Tube Compressor no ordinary compressor.
