review :: Paul Furio
rating: 10/10
Wow. Until you've used a Lexicon, you can only guess at what the reviewers mean when they talk about that 'Lexicon Sound.' Cleaner than clean, crisper than crisp, this is the brand of effects processor that all other brands strive to be.
The MPX-500 provides dual effects processing (up to 2 effects at once) with crisp, clear sound, and an easy to use interface. With full MIDI implementation (program change, realtime parameter change, sync tempo to MIDI clock) and a useful and obvious front panel, setting this thing up to go is a piece of cake. The reverbs are beautiful, and incredibly realistic. The other effects (flange, delays, etc.) are all a step above other brands.
I used this box for some funky swirly effects on samples, as well as to bring some vocals in a remix to the front of the song without drowning out the other parts. It functioned flawlessly. While it's a little pricy at $500, it relatively fits the 90/50 rule (providing 90% of the functionality at 50% of the cost) when compared to the higher end MPX-1 by Lexicon. If you're looking to own a Lexicon, pass the underpowered MPX-100, and save $250 over the MPX-1. Pick this baby up!