Pros / Cons of Effects Processors

[pflosi]

Regarding onboard effects vs. 'post-production', I think there is actually a difference that matters. The 'problem' is with serial / parallel signal chains. For example, most of the time I want my reverbs in a send / return loop; if you have loads of reverb on the onboard effects of a synth and record it like that, it's probably not a good idea to use heavy compression afterwards on that track. Better to record it dry, then compress and then finally use reverb. Similar scenarios are imaginable with almost any instrument / effect. Of course, the result this might give can also be desirable, so ultimately one should know and think about these things I guess. Running a lot of parallel chains to begin with is of course great fun as well. And experimentation is always good, obviously

[tekkentool]

I'm completely ITB and happy with software reverbs/delays and most effects. As far as reverbs go I've always thought the stock FL reverb was not too hot, look out for some great impulse responses of lexicon or bricasti reverbs, they sound awesome.

Compressor wise there are definitely advantages to hardware units but it is not currently worth it for me.

The main thing I want some hardware effects for is some pretty irreplaceable sounds. Specifically for me the sound of small stone phaser. Or a tape delay/reverb.

[Hybrid88]

mm, agreed spring reverb also is another one of those things software just can't do 100% authentically right now.

[cryabetes]

You can, however, simulate tape delay with AcidPro's stock plugins of compression, graphic distortion, a multihead delay, graphic vibrato, several amplitude modulation/tremolo units, a white noise sample and about four instances of the track you want to use with tape delay.

[mharris80]

And experimentation is always good, obviously

This is the best summary of effects usage I've seen. Experiment as much as possible. Aux. sends are great for this. You can try something out, and if it sounds like s**t, your basic take is still intact.