Brainworx bx_pulsar is a new flagship multi-type delay plugin for macOS and Windows with a flexible, explorative engine.
In July 2024, Brainworx released bx_aura, a flagship reverb plugin that bundles different colored reverb algorithms that can be deeply but intuitively manipulated. It was very well received by users, according to forum reports.
Now, we can welcome another plugin in this series. Brainworx has just released bx_pulsar, a new delay plugin that follows the same explorative and mangling concept as bx_aura.
Brainworx bx_pulsar
bx_pulsar is a new creative flagship delay plugin for macOS and Windows. On the visual side, it has an almost identical, intuitive interface to the bx_aura, but offers an entirely different delay-focused engine.
Brainworx bx_pulsar features five distinct delay types, each with a different character and colorization, ranging from classic to highly ambient algorithms.
Air is a clean delay for pristine reflections and delay diffusion. Then, Circuit is an analog-style gritty delay inspired by vintage BBD delay and guitar pedals.
Of course, there must be a tape delay. This type can be found in the Magnetic algorithm, emulating the legendary sound of tape, reels, and cassettes with rich modulation and degraded textures.
Reverse gives you smooth reverse delays with additional diffusion and compression, while Aether is a surreal and original delay designed to add sparkle, radiance, and diffusion.
Each of the five delay algorithms has a distinct parameter setting that allows you to shape and adapt the results to your sounds and track. Alongside these, it also has traditional settings like delay with sync option, feedback, pan, and more for all delays.
Delay Shaping
Five algorithms don’t sound like a lot of sonic variety. I’d almost say it’s a standard these days. The Brainworx bx_pulsar’s mangling capabilities, however, make these five algorithms more complex and varied.
This starts on the left upper side with a programmable 8-step sequencer that easily turns the algorithms into complex rhythmical delays. Just underneath is a groove section that lets you add swing and subtle timing shifts to your delays for enhanced musicality.
A look at the right side shows two more sections. First, you can mangle your delays with low and high-cut filters as well as low and high-frequency dampening for sculpting the signal further.
Further, you have a convenient built-in ducking compressor with an auto-sidechain function so your delays sit perfectly in the mix. Lastly, it has a freeze and clear buffer option to create infinite delay soundscapes with ease.
First Impression
There are countless delay plugins, and I have to admit I have many. My favorites include the no-brainer deal, ValhallaDelay, Audio Damage Other Desert Cities for experimental delays, and the Soundtoys EchoBoy for more traditional delays.
bx_pulsar looks like a very comprehensive delay plugin. Features like the sequencer, filtering, and ducking functions, in particular, open up a wide range of delayscapes.
If it also had granular or other smaller manglers like a distortion, bx_pulsar would be a mighty package of delay. For now, I have to see if it can compete with my favorites, but it looks very promising and sounds excellent in the demos.
Brainworx bx_pulsar is available now for an introductory price of $49,99 instead of $69 until October 30, 2025. You can crossgrade from any other Brainworx product for $39,99.
More information here: Plugin Alliance
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