A-199 Spring Reverb Module : Doepfer A-199 Spring Reverb

I ordered this module based on some very favourable on-line reviews and sound samples. I was not disappointed. The sound from the A-199 is 'classic' spring reverb, with a character very different from digital reverb units. Spring reverbs seem to suit analog synthesisers very well, and mine fitted into my modular synth setup immediately.

The spring box (sometimes called a 'tank') was easy to fit into the DoepferA-100LC3 case I purchased at the same time. It is held in place by 4 double sided sticky pads. I didn't need to use screw fittings. However. my system does not leave the house very often. If I was installing the A-199 in a flight case I would use the screw mounts for the spring tank.

The fitting instructions recommend the spring tank is located as far away from power supplies as possible, in order to avoid induced hum. As the A-100LC3 has an external mains transformer, this was not a problem, and the A-199 unit is very quiet in operation.

An added bonus with the A-199 is that you can use the control module with other spring tanks. I have a large Accusonics spring tank from an old keyboard combo which I am going to try soon.

One word of advice is that you should check the available size of the euro case you are planning to install the A-199 in. The A-100 mini cases are too small for the spring tank, and some shallow euro cases may not permit the spring tank to sit behind deep euro modules.

In summary, another great sounding and easy to use module from Doepfer, and one that I can see myself keeping for a long time.