In our latest review, Velislav takes a look at Orpheus Effects’ algorithmic reverb effect plugin PhiVerb.
What makes the reverb a great tool for creating extra space inside the mix? The answer is – dope algorithms, sweet sound and the intuitive interface. PhiVerb has all these.
Reverb is an fx which has to be used carefully, because too much makes the mix blurry, adds muddiness and feels like you cover the entire track with sonic fog. If not enough, the mix sounds too dry. The right amount and settings of a reverb define the quality of your mix.
PhiVerb is built in a very clever way – everything is in front of you and the four different algorithms (Hall, Room, Plate, and Air) let you switch to another type immediately, clicking on the next one, which will apply different types of space and vibe to your mix.
Each algorithm has different characteristics, the reverb time and vibe are different.
Depending on what instrument you will apply it to, you must adjust the settings to fit the track. All parameters are separated and can be adjusted as Tone, Shape, Damping, Mode and Ducking.
Predelay and decay will define how fast the reverb will be audible and how much space will be created. Tone defines the sonic area where reverb will work in your mix, adjusting the low/high frequencies. I recommend limiting 100-15.000Hz as a useful frequency space, it’s melodic in this spectrum.
The intuitive reverb is easy to program without need for special skills, allowing you to squeeze a little more space for your mix with it.
Shape defines the size and dispersion of the reverb, while damping controls suppression of the frequencies which you don’t need to have reverb on. Mod controls speed and depth of the reverb.
The ducking effect on the right side is very useful, providing a smooth presence in the mix without interfering with other instruments, like the invisible tail. The tilt function will add a bright/dark vibe.
Final thoughts
PhiVerb is a sweet sounding reverb you can use on everything from drums to keyboards, without any deep knowledge of reverb as fx.
Regularly priced $50 USD, PhiVerb for Windows and Mac (VST3, AU and AAX) is only $30 USD as part of a Swedish Spring Sale until May 4th, 2025. A free trial version is available to try, and you can also download a collection of 10 presets for the plugin made by Velislav.
Velislav Velikov is a passionate song writer / sound designer and creator of real time reshaping technology, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of known sound.
