For decades, the Binson Echorec has been the “holy grail” of delay units, a mysterious gold box responsible for the haunting, psychedelic textures of Pink Floyd and the thunderous resonance of Led Zeppelin. Today, the boutique pedalsmiths at T-Rex Effects have officially pushed this legendary technology into a new dimension with the release of the Binson Stereophonica.
This isn’t just a reissue; it is a ground-up reinvention that brings the magnetic drum delay into the modern stereo era.
The Sound That Defined Rock History
The original Binson magnetic disk delay was the secret weapon for some of the most influential artists in music history. It provided the “interstellar” textures on Pink Floyd’s Meddle and The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, sculpted Hank Marvin’s iconic clean guitar chirps, and was even utilized by John Bonham to achieve his “cavernous” drum sound on “When the Levee Breaks.”
While vintage units are notoriously temperamental and fragile, T-Rex has spent years perfecting a mechanical recreation that captures the soul of the original while adding professional-grade reliability and a massive stereo field.
Studio-Grade Engineering Meets Vintage Soul
The T-Rex Stereophonica stands out as one of the most feature-rich recreations ever produced. Unlike the mono units of the 1960s, this “Stereophonica” iteration offers an expansive soundstage that allows the echoes to dance across the L/R spectrum.
Key features of the new unit include:
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Dual Recording Heads: Players can choose between “Short” and “Long” delay modes, providing a foundation for everything from slapback to ambient washes.
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Four Playback Heads: Each head features dedicated Volume and Balance controls, enabling intricate rhythmic patterns and complex polyrhythms.
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Variable Drum Speed: A dedicated Speed knob lets you adjust by +/- 20%, pushing the delay time up to a lush 530 milliseconds.
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Repeat vs. Swell: The classic toggle lets users switch between standard feedback echoes and “Swell” mode, where echoes coalesce into a dense, haunting reverb.
Modern Connectivity for the Contemporary Producer
While the heart of the machine is an analog rotating magnetic disk, the “brain” is built for 21st-century workflows. The unit features balanced XLR I/O for studio integration, a dedicated high-impedance Instrument input for guitarists, and MIDI I/O for synchronizing the mechanical drum speed with a DAW or external controller.
Currently retailing for $2,999.00, the Binson Stereophonica is positioned as a premium centerpiece for high-end recording studios and serious tone-chasers looking to capture the “interstellar overdrive” of yesteryear.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the T-Rex Binson Stereophonica
What makes a “drum delay” different from a tape delay?
Unlike tape delays (such as the Space Echo), which use a loop of magnetic tape, the Binson uses a rotating metal disk with a magnetic wire wrapped around its edge. This creates a unique, “lo-fi” yet hi-fi warmth that is more stable than tape but offers a distinct tonal character.
Is the T-Rex Binson Stereophonica digital or analog?
It is a true mechanical analog delay. The echoes are created by recording an audio signal onto a spinning magnetic drum and reading it back via playback heads.
Can I use this with my guitar amp?
Yes. While it features balanced I/O for studio use, it also includes a dedicated Instrument input specifically designed for guitar and bass signals.
What is the maximum delay time?
The unit provides studio-quality vintage delays of up to 530ms, adjustable via the drum speed knob.
Why is it called “Stereophonica”?
This is the first major Binson-style recreation to offer true stereo capabilities, allowing you to pan the four playback heads across the stereo field for an immersive 3D audio experience.
Guitar Bomb Verdict
The T-Rex Binson Stereophonica is more than a tribute; it is an evolution. By marrying the mechanical magic of the 1960s with the demands of the modern stereo studio, T-Rex has ensured that the “Interstellar Echoes” of the past will continue to inspire the musicians of the future.
Perfect for musicians seeking the “Levee-Breaking” drums of Bonham or the psychedelic swirls of Gilmour, the Stereophonica is the ultimate time machine.
Pre-Order & Pricing
Available at Sweetwater – $2999.99
More Information
#T-Rex #Binson Stereophonica
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