Aphelion’s Orbit returns with a review of MolecularBytes’ algorithmic reverb plugin, which was recently updated with a redesigned engine and new features.
What is it?
Molecular Bytes, founded by brothers Frank and Andre, has a history rooted in programming for the Commodore 64 and Amiga. Their passion for music eventually led them into the development of audio DSPs and algorithms, laying the foundation for modern audio editing tools.
When I had the chance to review AtomicReverb 2, I jumped at it—despite having no prior experience with their products. What sets this reverb apart is its unique approach; it doesn’t rely on convolution or static IR data, nor does it emphasize traditional reverb tails. Instead, the focus is on early reflections and mid-range perception. By continuously analyzing and adjusting reverberation, AtomicReverb ensures a natural sound while eliminating unwanted resonances.
First Impressions
At its core, it’s a reverb—so the best way to explore it is by applying it to vocals, strings, keyboards, drums, mixing, and mastering. Dialing in presets and default settings not only shapes the sound but also reveals nuances that can spark new ideas.
From the first listen, it felt like more than just a standard reverb, possibly due to the built-in EQ and how some presets were crafted. A few standout presets immediately caught my attention—“Echo Out,” “High Noon,” and “In Your Ear.” As I integrated it into individual tracks, I found myself being pulled in unexpected creative directions, which, for someone passionate about sound design, is exactly what makes it special.
Interface & Controls
The GUI is clean, intuitive, and inviting—it encourages exploration. Everything you’d expect from a standard reverb is present, offering a solid foundation for shaping your sound.
As for presets, they provide a great starting point, allowing you to quickly dial in different atmospheres and textures while learning how the reverb responds.
Presets
Molecular Bytes truly delivered with this reverb. The designers’ vision shines through in the presets, making it easy to grasp the character they intended. I was able to dive right in and find a preset that complemented my sound effortlessly. Beyond that, inspecting the preset programming and hovering over the settings in the UI helped me understand exactly what makes each preset tick.
EQ
I’m really impressed by the 5-band EQ and spectrum analyzer, especially how they’re integrated within this reverb. The EQ gives you precise control over frequencies, allowing for deeper sound shaping that goes far beyond just adding reverb. It opens up new creative possibilities, making it a powerful tool for experimentation and sonic refinement.
The Big Knobs
Tweaking these knobs was easily the most fun part of the process. I kept bouncing between the EQ and room size, dialing in textures and tones. These two sections—combined with the impressive 260 presets—not only helped shape a rich, character-filled sound quickly but also led to unexpected sonic discoveries. While aiming for a fast workflow, I found myself stumbling into entirely new creative directions I hadn’t explored before.
The Performance
There’s no doubt that AtomicReverb 2 is a well-designed reverb that holds its own in an incredibly competitive space—alongside heavy hitters like Valhalla Vintage Verb, Soundtoys, FabFilter Pro, Sonnox Oxford Reverb, and the many free alternatives available. If I were to analyze them all with a spectrum analyzer and take RT measurements, I’m confident AtomicReverb 2 would perform just as well, pushing the mix in interesting ways.
But at the end of the day, the real question is: did it enhance my individual tracks, full mix, and sound design in a way that felt pleasing through my ears and headphones? I believe it did. More than just a standard reverb, I found creative applications beyond its expected use.
Even when pushed, the sound never felt hollow—it stayed warm and realistic, allowing me to dial in exactly what I needed. And thanks to the strong preset selection, I never had to start from scratch; I could tweak and refine from a solid foundation.
AtomicReverb 2 has a distinct character that sets it apart in a crowded field, bringing something unique to the table.
Pros
Editing & sound manipulation.
Scalable UI.
Gorgeous interface.
Fun factor.
Trial software.
Lots of presets.
PC standalone.
MIDI learn.
Price.
Cons
None.
Final Thoughts
This reverb delivers impressive value for the price, offering plenty of ways to integrate it into different workflows. For me, it truly stood out in experimental sound design, where its flexibility opened up new creative avenues.
Fans of drum and bass, electronic, and dance music will likely find its programming particularly useful, but it also holds its own as a solid, straightforward reverb for more traditional applications.
MolecularBytes is offering a free fully-functional demo version of AtomicReverb 2 for Windows and Mac (VST3, AU and AAX) if you’d like to try it yourself, and a license of the plugin is currently available at an introductory price of €59 EUR (regular €79 EUR).
