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.

1984

Released in 1984

Purple Rain

Prince

Back in the 1980s, while I respected Prince as a talented musician and songwriter, I was not necessarily a big fan of his music. Although I enjoyed a few of his songs, none of them made it to my regular playlists. However, as time went by, my appreciation for Prince’s music grew. In recent years, […]

Engineered by: Susan Rogers

Mixed by: Susan Rogers and Prince

1984

Released in 1984

Ensoniq Mirage Digital Multi-Sampler

The Ensoniq Mirage Rackmount Sampler, released in 1984, was one of the first affordable digital samplers, known for its distinctive 8-bit sound and simplicity. Its built-in 8-track sequencer and MIDI capabilities made it a popular choice, shaping the sound of 1980s electronic music.

1984

Released in 1984

dbx 120X Subharmonic Synthesiser

The original dbx 120x, released in the 1980s, was a pioneering piece of audio equipment that made significant contributions to the world of professional audio and music production.

1984

Released in 1984

Take On Me

A-Ha

Take On Me by A-ha is a quintessential 1980s pop song, renowned for its catchy synth-driven melody and groundbreaking music video. Released in 1984, the song initially struggled to make an impact but was re-released in 1985 with a new, innovative video, which then catapulted it to immense popularity. The song features the distinctive high-pitched falsetto […]

Engineered by: Neill King

Mixed by: John Ratcliff

1984

Released in 1984

Like A Virgin

Madonna

Madonna’s Like A Virgin single and album, which were both released in 1984, were pivotal moments in the pop star’s career. The album represented a significant departure from her earlier work, boasting a more refined and polished sound. Meanwhile, the single’s catchy pop hooks and daring lyrics captured the attention of audiences worldwide, cementing Madonna’s […]

Engineered by: Jason Corsaro

Mixed by: Jason Corsaro

1984

Released in 1984

Reckless

Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams’ Reckless album made a significant impact in the mid-1980s, essentially defining the sound of rock albums during that era. It was a record of immense importance, and it solidified Bob Clearmountain’s reputation as the go-to mix engineer. What makes Clearmountain’s role even more remarkable is that he served not only as the mix engineer […]

Engineered by: Bob Clearmountain

Mixed by: Bob Clearmountain

1984

Released in 1984

Jump

Van Halen

Van Halen’s hit single Jump was an instant classic, dominating the airwaves in the 1980s and still captivating audiences to this day. It’s notable for its prominent use of keyboards, a departure from the band’s usual hard rock guitar-driven sound. In fact, it wasn’t until later that many realized that Jump was actually a Van […]

Engineered by: Don Landee

Mixed by: Don Landee

1985

Released in 1985

MXR 01A Digital Reverb

In 1985 it would seem MXR employed the team at ART (Applied Research & Technology) to produce a digital reverb, based on the ART 01A, and it even had ART listed as the manufacturer on the front panel.

1985

Released in 1985

ART 01A Digital Reverb

The ART 01A is a digital reverb from around 1985, that was also licensed to MXR and sold with the same 01A name on the front panel, but refereed to as the Model 191 on the rear.

1985

Released in 1985

Boss RDD-10 Digital Delay

The Boss RDD-10 Digital Delay released in 1985, delivered studio quality digital delay for the ultimate refinement of basic performance.

1985

Released in 1985

Boss RSD-10 Digital Sampler Delay

The Boss RSD-10 Digital Sampler Delay, released in 1985 offers a two octave plus range and controllable dynamics.

1985

Released in 1985

Boss RBF-10 Flanger

The Boss RBF-10 Flanger from 1985 provided superior signal to noise ratio achieved with Built-In Noise Reduction.

1985

Released in 1985

Boss RPH-10 Phaser

The Boss RPH-10 Phaser from 1985 provides 3 different Phasing Modes that let this Phaser create a multitude of effects.

1985

Released in 1985

Boss RCL-10 Compressor Limiter

The Boss RCL-10 Compressor Limiter from 1985 provides four different high-performance functions integrated into a single unit.

1985

Released in 1985

Boss RGE-10 Graphic Equaliser

The Boss RGE-10 Graphic Equaliser from 1985 provides fine tonal compensation with 10-Band Graphic Equaliser.

1985

Released in 1985

Sony PCM-1630 Audio Processor

The Sony PCM-1630 was used for mastering audio CDs in the mid 1980s and onwards, by most of the major record labels around the world. It was an essential part of early digital audio disc production and was responsible for hundreds of classic albums being put to CD.

1985

Released in 1985

Yamaha REV7 Digital Reverberator

The Yamaha REV7 was more affordable than the REV1 and found a home in many studios world wide. People seem to either love or hate these old Yamaha reverbs, in fact the Yamaha REV7 would have to be one of the most polarizing reverbs there is, with no in between it seems. But make no mistake, there is much love for this classic 1980s reverb!

1985

Released in 1985

Centerfield

John Fogerty

John Fogerty’s Centerfield, released in 1985, marked a triumphant return for the former Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman. After nearly a decade of silence following legal disputes and creative struggles, Fogerty re-emerged with an album that showcased his talent and reignited his career. The title track, Centerfield, became an anthem not only for baseball fans but […]

Engineered by: Jeffrey Norman

Mixed by: Jeffrey Norman

1985

Released in 1985

Studer A721 Cassette Tape Recorder

The Studer A721 is a professional cassette recorder with superb audio performance, reliability, and convenient operating concept, including a four-motor tape transport mechanism and modular audio electronics with automatic record parameter calibration.

1985

Released in 1985

Yamaha SPX90 Multi-Effects Processor

The Yamaha SPX90 was released in 1985 as an affordable multi-effects processor for the masses. It remains today a true classic digital effects processor. It is also the most looked at effects processor on this website.

1985

Released in 1985

Lexicon 224X Digital Reverberator

The Lexicon 224X Digital Reverberator provides high-quality simulation of the acoustics of a variety of architectural spaces and a wide variety of special effects. The Lexicon 224X is an advanced two-in, four-out, all-electronic digital reverberation system. Its clean, natural-sounding reverberation is the result of blending digital audio hardware and software disciplines.

1985

Released in 1985

Roland SRV-2000 MIDI Digital Reverb

The Roland SRV-2000 is one of those classic old Japanese reverbs that while not perfect, is certainly perfect in some situations, and in particular for snare! Yes, it is grainy at times, perhaps a little too bright and the reverb tails are not the smoothest, but it is these characteristics that give the Roland SRV-2000 it's mojo and a place in your studio.

1985

Released in 1985

Ursa Major MSP-126 Multi-Tap Stereo Processor

The Ursa Major MSP-126 is a stereo tapped delay digital delay line with a 20kHz bandwidth, eight pre-programmed processing modes and more. The Ursa Major MSP-126 is a signal processor that creates a whole range of interesting effects inlcuding great balanced stereo with flat response from any kind of program material.

1985

Released in 1985

EMT 252 Digital Reverb

It's no secret that the "EMT sound" is a key ingredient of many hit records. It's been that way for over 25 years. The very first unit, the EMT 140, is still used by major studios. And the sound of their big digital units. the 250 and 251, is legendary. In 1985 EMT introduced the EMT 252, offering more features than the 250 and 251.

1985

Released in 1985

Lexicon PCM 70 Digital Effects Processor

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.

1985

Released in 1985

ART DR2a Digital Reverberation System

The ART DR2a Digital Reverberation System is a high quality digital signal processing device providing realistic natural reverberation as well as creative new reverb effects. In designing the DR2a, ART incorporated the latest findings in digital reverberation research and gave careful consideration to user feedback on desirable features.

1985

Released in 1985

Money For Nothing

Dire Straits

Money for Nothing, the hit single from the album Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits, is a timeless classic that enjoyed massive success in 1985, topping the charts as the band’s only number one record. The song received constant airplay on both radio and MTV, quickly becoming one of the most-played tracks in the history […]

Engineered by: Neil Dorfman

Mixed by: Chuck Ainley

1985

Released in 1985

Korg GR-1 Gated Reverb

The Korg GR-1 Gated Reverb from 1985 is a compact, rack-mountable unit with high-quality spring reverberators, offering precise control over reverb and decay. With a 3-band equaliser, stereo support, and footswitch control, it’s perfect for studio and live performances, delivering classic '80s reverb sound.

1985

Released in 1985

Roland SDE-2500 MIDI Digital Delay

The Roland SDE-2500 Digital Delay came after the Roland SDE-3000 and coincided with the release of the equally excellent Roland SRV-2000 Digital Reverb.

1985

Released in 1985

Lexicon Model 95 Prime Time II Digital Delay

New creative worlds of musical adventure can be discovered through the magic of Lexicon Prime Time II, the successor to the most popular digital delay ever.

1985

Released in 1985

Road To Nowhere

Talking Heads

Talking Heads had a standout year in 1985 with hit after hit from their album Little Creatures, which is widely regarded as their finest work. The band had already gained recognition for their live performances with the successful Stop Making Sense album, which showcased their ability to perform their hits in a way that exceeded […]

Engineered by: Eric Thorngren & Melanie West

Mixed by: Eric Thorngren & Jerry Harrison

1985

Released in 1985

Alesis XT Digital Reverb

The Alesis XT Digital Reverb, released in 1985, is a high quality digital signal processing system, specifically designed to simulate natural reverberation and special acoustic effects.

1985

Released in 1985

The Sweetest Taboo

Sade

When Sade burst onto the music scene in the 1980s, their sophisticated adult contemporary sound was a breath of fresh air. While the radio airwaves were filled with the sounds of new wave music, Sade’s music was in a class of its own, offering a polished and refined sound that captured the hearts of listeners […]

Engineered by: Mike Pela

Mixed by: Mike Pela

1985

Released in 1985

Akai S612 MIDI Digital Sampler

The Akai S612 Sampler provides synth enthusiasts with affordable sampling technology. Offering 12-bit resolution, 32 kHz bandwidth, and 6-voice polyphony. With the Akai S612, you can sample a variety of audio sources like voices, instruments, or any analogue or digital signal, and play it back on any MIDI keyboard within 8 seconds.

1985

Released in 1985

Eventide Model H969 Harmonizer®

Eventide's newest Harmonizer in 1985 was the Eventide Model H969, which expanded on Eventide's already capable Eventide Model H949 Harmonizer. The Eventide Model H969's new ProPitch digital electronic-splicing algorithm gives you the cleanest, most glitch-free pitch change ever. Deglitching is active over a wider bandwidth, too - a full octave wider.