Outboard Stereo Effects: Inside the Lexicon MX300 Stereo Reverb & Effects Processor

When it comes to the history of digital audio, few names carry the legendary status of Lexicon. For decades, their hardware algorithms have defined the sound of spatial processing on countless hit records, live tours, and cinematic scores.

Bringing that iconic, lush reverb character into a modern, streamlined workflow can sometimes be a challenge—which is where the Lexicon MX300 comes in. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional hardware routing and software integration, the MX300 is a versatile powerhouse built for both project studios and live sound environments.

Legendary Algorithms and Pristine Effects

At its core, the MX300 is packed with a robust arsenal of studio-grade algorithms driven by 24-bit/48kHz processing. Rather than relying on generic digital presets, it delivers the signature depth and three-dimensional decay that made Lexicon famous:

• 16 Legendary Lexicon Reverbs: From lush vocal halls and smooth plates to ambient rooms, chambers, and massive arenas, the unit provides a wide sonic palette to seat any instrument or vocal naturally in a mix.
• Delays and Modulation: Beyond reverb, it features seven distinct delay types (including tape and studio delays) alongside a full suite of modulation effects like chorus, flanger, phaser, and tremolo.
• Onboard dbx Compression and De-Essing: Leveraging sibling technology from dbx Professional Products, the MX300 includes built-in dynamic processing tools to tame harsh sibilance or control dynamics right at the processor stage.

The Hardware “Plug-In” Workflow

One of the most innovative features of the MX300 is its USB Hardware Plug-In capability.

Instead of forcing engineers to choose between the workflow convenience of software plugins and the pristine audio quality of outboard gear, the MX300 connects directly to a computer via USB. Using the VST or Audio Units (AU) plugin interface inside your DAW, you can automate parameters, recall sessions, and tweak settings natively on your screen while letting the MX300’s dedicated digital signal processor handle the heavy lifting.

This hybrid approach gives you true hardware processing power without eating up your computer’s native CPU resources.

Built for the Road and the Studio

Housed in a rugged single-rackspace chassis, the MX300 is designed to withstand the rigors of touring while offering an intuitive front-panel layout for fast adjustments.

• Flexible Routing: It features five distinct effect routing options (such as Dual Mono, Cascade, Parallel, and Mono Split), allowing you to configure the internal engines to match your exact tracking or mixing needs.
• Comprehensive Connections: Equipped with balanced XLR and 1/4-inch TRS inputs and outputs, S/PDIF digital I/O, MIDI capabilities, and a footswitch jack, it integrates effortlessly into virtually any analog or digital setup.

Elevate Your Mixes at Leeds Recording

Whether you are looking to wrap a lead vocal in a classic plate reverb or add deep, immersive dimensionality to your hybrid stems, having reliable spatial processors is essential.