Computer based algorithms can be much more sophisticated than an outboard unit. Do I have "evidence" like statistically significant AB listening tests? No. But consider that once tracks are in the computer, it can process a track as slowly as necessary which means the resolution and depth of something like reverb can be much greater.
Also, consider the workflow. Ultimately all analog front end chains are going into analog-to-digital converters and recorded to a computer. Once you transition from the analog realm to the digital realm, there's probably no going back because you have a 5ms latency barrier. Maybe if all of the tracks go through the same barrier such as to mix down on a console so that you can "play" the console like it's an instrument. But I'm guessing that once it's in the DAW, for most folks, that's it. Now you can play with reverb and plugins until your blue in the face. At no time is there a need for reverb or effects in the analog realm. The except to the rule might be for monitoring so that the performer can hear reverb while they're singing / playing. But that would not end up in the recording.