Echo

This emulates the classic tape echo. It faithfully models the many non-linear attributes of the original hardware. These include frequency warping as the repeat rate is adjusted (essentially changing the tape speed), non-linearity and harmonic content at extreme intensity levels, and various other idiosyncrasies associated with motor speed inaccuracies, tape drift and wow.  The Echo also emulates saturation and high frequency characteristics of the record head on tape, found on the original hardware. The Echo allows for 7 different ‘modes’, each of which activates certain read heads on the tape. There are 3 read heads in total which are a fixed distance apart; by changing the repeat rate it is possible to vary the delay time at each of the heads.  The shortest delays can be found with mode 1 and the longest with mode 3. Modes 4-7 are a combination of read heads which can lead to complex repeat patterns and a greater risk of instability.  The Echo will accept stereo input however it only has a mono output.

Controls:

Input Gain - Can boost or cut up to 15dB of gain on the echo input.

Noise - Turns the analogue noise emulation on or off.

Mode Selector – Switches between the ‘read heads’ of the tape machine allowing for different lengths of echo.  1-3 selects a single read head; 4 – 7 selects a combination of multiple heads for a multi layered echo.

Note  Be aware that when multiple heads are selected there is a greater chance for instability and self-oscillation which can result in large output levels.  For normal use it is advised to use modes 1-3 to prevent excessive feedback.

Bass – Can cut or boost low frequency content in the feedback path of the echo.  The centre position provides a bypassed response.

Treble – Can cut or boost high frequency content in the feedback path of the echo.  The centre position provides a bypassed response.

Repeat Rate – Controls the echo time by adjusting the artificial motor speed of the tape. A quicker rate means a shorter echo.  For the longest echo select mode 3 and set the repeat rate to the far left.

Intensity - Controls the intensity of the feedback path in the echo. More intensity results in more repeats. When intensity is set beyond 75% the unit is capable of self-oscillation and with external input will grow and evolve, however this can result in loud output levels which need to be monitored. When multiple read heads are selected (modes 4-7) added intensity causes even more instability and care should be taken to avoid clipping.

Echo Volume - Allows for a cut or boost of 15dB of gain on the echo output.