Guitarists and sonic explorers rejoice! Strymon has announced the release of the EC-1, a compact pedal that meticulously recreates the legendary sound of the Echoplex EP-2 tape echo, complete with the rich harmonic character of its tube preamp. This new pedal promises to deliver an authentically nostalgic tape delay experience, blending vintage warmth with modern precision.
Strymon Unveils EC-1
The EC-1 isn’t just another delay pedal; it’s a deep dive into the sonic intricacies of a beloved classic. Strymon’s engineers painstakingly studied the mechanical nuances of vintage Echoplex units, capturing the subtle imperfections that contribute to their ethereal modulation. The result is a pedal that offers everything from warm, slapback delays to expansive, swirling echoes in both mono and stereo configurations.
Key Features for the Discerning Musician
- Switchable Saturation: Dial in anything from pristine repeats to gritty, saturated tones with a simple switch.
- Tape Age Dial: Emulate the warmth of aged tape or the clarity of a fresh reel, providing a wide range of tonal textures.
- Tap Tempo: Effortlessly sync your delays with your performance, without any unwanted pitch shifting or clicks.
- Full Stereo Capability: Process stereo signals independently, allowing for seamless integration into any stereo rig.
- Optional 6dB Boost: Enhance your signal with a powerful boost, or bypass the preamp for a clean, unprocessed sound.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: Includes expression pedal input, MIDI control, and USB-C for firmware updates and computer control.
- True/Buffered Bypass: Users can choose their bypass preference.
A Deep Dive into Vintage Authenticity
Strymon’s development of the EC-1 began with their acclaimed dTape algorithm, initially featured in the El Capistan pedal. Seeking to further refine their recreation, they meticulously analyzed a modified Echoplex EP-2, previously worked on by the legendary technician Cesar Diaz. This particular unit, with its enhanced tube preamp, became a crucial reference point for the EC-1.
The pedal features two distinct preamp circuits: one based on the classic EP-2 tube preamp with enhanced high-end, and another offering a warm, balanced response derived from the modified EP-2. The Strymon dTape system ensures that every aspect of the tape echo, from motor fluctuations to tape condition, is faithfully replicated.
Stereo and Connectivity
The EC-1 boasts full stereo input and output capabilities, processing signals independently for true stereo imaging. Its compact design is achieved through TRS input and output jacks, and a dedicated rear panel switch allows for flexible routing options, including mono-to-stereo conversion.
High-Quality Audio
Strymon has spared no expense in ensuring pristine audio quality. The EC-1 features a premium JFET analog front end, ultra-low noise 24-bit 96kHz A/D and D/A converters, and a powerful 520MHz ARM Superscalar processor.
Preorder
With its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to sonic authenticity, the Strymon EC-1 is poised to become an essential tool for guitarists and sound designers seeking the timeless magic of vintage tape echo.
The pedal is now available for purchase, and information can be found at Strymon’s website.
MSRP – $279
More Information
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