SSL PlateVerb: Classic Plate Reverb with Modern Features
3,0 / 5,0 | 
SSL PlateVerb is the first in a new series of boutique reverb plugins from the British manufacturer. Featuring a streamlined “pedal-style” interface, SSL PlateVerb pairs classic plate reverb sounds with modern features for contemporary productions.
SSL PlateVerb
The first thing that meets the eye is of course the user interface. PlateVerb looks distinctively different from other SSL plugins that tend to have a console-style appearance. Taking clues from guitar pedals (and presumably from other pedal-style plugins – Eventide comes to mind), PlateVerb features a clear, easy-to-use interface that makes it easy to dial in the sound you want.
According to SSL, the new plugin is based on two separate algorithms that emulate the early and late reflections of classic plate reverbs. The large Time knob in the center lets you adjust the decay time from 100 milliseconds to three seconds – that’s quite a lot for a plate reverb. To the left and right are additional controls for Size, Density, and Colour. You can also adjust the balance between the early and late reflections.
The Colour knob is particularly interesting, as it lets you modify the harmonic content of the reverb tail to mimic the sound of different plate materials. Other features not found on many other plate reverbs are the Freeze and Kill buttons below the knobs, which lend themselves to creative experiments and unusual reverb effects. Moreover, the damping section lets you control the decay of high and low frequencies separately, which offers a great deal of control over the reverb tail.
Ducking with external sidechain
Furthermore, SSL PlateVerb offers a built-in ducking feature with an external sidechain option. With the ability to “listen” to the input signal or to a different signal altogether, this opens up vast creative possibilities for controlling the reverb level musically. The ducking feature also gives you precise control over the threshold, attack, and release.
With the combination of classic plate reverb tones, modern shaping options, and an uncluttered, easy-to-use interface, SSL PlateVerb certainly looks like a great addition to any producer’s reverb arsenal.
Price and compatibility
SSL PlateVerb is now available at Thomann for $104.
The plugin runs on macOS Big Sur or higher and Windows 10 or higher in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats and stand-alone. You’ll need an iLok account or dongle for authorization.
More info about SSL PlateVerb
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One response to “SSL PlateVerb: Classic Plate Reverb with Modern Features”
Classic plate reverb is a timeless tool, so pairing it with modern features for contemporary productions feels like a win-win. Can’t wait to hear some demos and see if it can add that “je ne sais quoi” to my mixes!