Erica Synths Zen Delay Virtual £155 PC MAC

Modelled on 2019's hardware delay, the virtual incarnation of the knob-packed atmosphere-carver surpasses its parent in more ways than one

There aren’t many modern hardware effects units that could be said to have been instantly iconic, but 2019’s Zen Delay – a collaboration between Coldcut and Ninja Tune co-founder Matt Black with Erica Synths – had both the sonic clout and all-important aesthetic allure to captivate all who dared tinker with its (not insubstantial) knobs. Fitting then, that a scant four years on, a plugin version has been released that replicates the unit’s lush analogue and digital signal paths, as well as presenting a whole host of new abilities that take this delay and modulation monster into new frontiers.

Zen at work

Zen Delay Virtual offers five unique delay algorithms, a multi-mode filter and a fiery overdrive. Harnessed either in isolation or in tandem with each other, sounds can grow and sprawl in fascinating and satisfying new ways. A major facet of the virtual version is the all-new LFO page, wherein you can set and record modulations via extensive time setting and cutoff controls. More on that later.