VELA: This Reverb Plugin Rivals Even Bricasti and Lexicon – Now in Open Beta!
Better Than IRs? This Plugin Replaces Convolution Reverbs with a Flexible Engine and Graphical Control.
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VELA: This Reverb Plugin Rivals Even Bricasti and Lexicon - Now in Open Beta! · Source: Sonic Academy
With VELA, Sonic Academy has introduced a reverb plugin that, according to the developers, will break down and redefine the conventional boundaries of algorithmic reverbs. And that’s exactly what I was able to test in advance and now in an open beta version. I can say that my first impression was very positive. And that means something, since I collect reverb plugins and hardware reverbs in my studio. If you’re as excited about new reverb plugins as I am, you won’t want to miss out on the beta test.
Sonic Academy VELA is no Ordinary Reverb – it’s a Tool for Sound Architects
Instead of relying on static impulse responses or hard-wired algorithms, VELA by Sonic Academy is based on a freely editable, node-based structure that allows extremely fine-grained control over density, decay, and frequency response. The combination of adjustable early reflections and a flexible late reverb section allows the modeling of realistic rooms in great detail, as well as artificially generated soundscapes. You can adjust the time course of the reverb as well as the filter curve of the reverb itself. And the result sounds really good.
VELA’s modular structure is strongly inspired by classic reverb legends such as Lexicon, Bricasti or TC Electronic. Despite these sonic references, the software has its own unique approach: the graphical user interface allows you to design density and decay visually and intuitively with the help of curves. Very cool! Even with complex signal paths, the control of each parameter remains comprehensible, which makes VELA especially interesting for creative sound designers and mixing engineers. For example, you can create unusual tail progressions such as inverse or pulsating decays, as well as extremely dense reverb tails with thousands of delay taps.
The Reverb That Rethinks Classic Reverbs
The overall concept is rounded out by a sophisticated dynamics and equalization section. An integrated ducking module ensures that the reverb signal automatically makes room for the input signal when needed – a very important feature for me. This way, for example, vocals always remain present while the reverb blends in appropriately. The De-essing module also shows that VELA is designed with practicality in mind. This way, you can already shape your sound perfectly for the mix in VELA. In addition, the plugin offers a separate pre- and post-EQ section with parametric curves and various modulation options. There is even visual feedback on input width and modulation parameters, making it easy to make targeted adjustments in the mix. Very nice!
The currently available Open Beta version already contains more than 200 presets and offers a wide range of classic and modern reverb characteristics. Although some features such as mid/side modes are still missing, VELA already impresses with a high degree of flexibility, precision and visual feedback. The combination of intuitive operation and very deep depth makes it a tool that can play an important role in both creative sound design and the mixing process. Those who work with reverbs will find that this is not just another reverb plugin for their collection, but a truly novel and interesting concept that goes far beyond the usual standards. An absolute must!
Pricing and Specifications
Sonic Academy VELA is available for free as a public beta version from the manufacturer’s website. Unfortunately, the price has not been set yet – we will have to wait for the release – probably on April 30, 2025. The plugin is available in VST3 and AU formats and runs on Windows and macOS.
More information
- Product page at Sonic Academy
- More about Sonic Academy
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One response to “VELA: This Reverb Plugin Rivals Even Bricasti and Lexicon – Now in Open Beta!”
Joined, or tried to join the Beta program, no link to download software?