Legends often arise from accidents, and such is the case with the distinctive delay effect that renowned mix engineer Bob Clearmountain created for David Bowie’s 1983 hit “Let’s Dance.” Apogee Electronics has now captured this happy audio accident in plugin form, allowing producers and musicians to recreate the chaotic stereo delay that became a signature element of the iconic track.
The plugin, available since September 18, 2025, faithfully emulates the warm, dual tape head delay characteristic that defined the original recording. At its core, the effect generates cascading ping-pong delay patterns that create an immersive stereo experience, with delay repeats hard-panned while maintaining proper balance for dry signals. Even mono inputs are transformed through the plugin’s stereo wet delay processing. The plugin intelligently records incoming audio into a temporary buffer before applying its sophisticated delay algorithm.
Technical flexibility abounds in this digital recreation, with delay times adjustable from 0 to 1000 milliseconds or synchronized to musical note values including triplets. Engineers can match delay timing precisely to their DAW session tempo using the integrated Tap Tempo and Sync functions, essential tools for modern production workflows. The Clearmountain Dance plugin was developed in response to the numerous online forum discussions dedicated to achieving Bowie’s iconic delay sound. This affordable tool is particularly valuable for home studio producers looking to elevate their productions with professional effects without investing in expensive outboard gear.
What truly separates this plugin from standard delay effects is its analog tape emulation and unique randomization controls. The Degrade knob introduces tape aging artifacts including wow and flutter, while the Offset and Skew knobs allow subtle or dramatic variations in timing between channels, creating distinctive rhythmic textures beyond conventional ping-pong effects. Creative producers can layer multiple instances of the effect for ambient textures that add remarkable depth to their compositions.
Compatible with macOS 13.7.5+ (including Apple Silicon processors) and Windows 11+, the plugin supports all major formats including AAX Native, AU, VST, and VST3. It works seamlessly with popular digital audio workstations without requiring iLok or Pace licensing systems.
Priced competitively at $29-$30, the plugin has quickly garnered attention from musicians seeking to replicate the “Let’s Dance” effect. Its intuitive interface features separate controls for left and right delay times, making it accessible for both vintage enthusiasts and modern producers looking to add Clearmountain’s legendary delay textures to vocals, guitars, and percussion.
