Strymon EC-1 Single Head dTape Echo Delay Effect Pedal

If you're in need of a board-ready, miniaturized digital tape echo, you're in need of the Strymon EC-1. This compact and intuitive tape echo delay effect has everything you could need for an seamlessly workable effect readymade for dreamy, endless delay trails and '60s slapbacks alike. With a number of extra considerations given for analog authenticity in a digital format, the EC-1 is truly a striking tape echo.

The history of tape reel delays is a long and colorful one, detailed in no small part by Strymon's very own El Capistan tape echo. The Capistan's original single-head tape algorithm was the impetus for the development of the EC-1 alongside some close time with a vintage Echoplex EP-2 tape reel delay. Some key modifications to said Echoplex resulted in a warmer sound akin to an Echoplex EP-3. What this all added up to is the EC-1, an attempt to capture the best of several different versions of the Echoplex in one.

Onboard the EC-1, there is a suite of expressive control parameters perfect for coming to your own digital tape echo conclusions. First, the EC-1 features a dedicated three-way switch, Record Level, for three distinct unique and tailored tape saturation settings for introducing thicker or thinner signal coloring. Along with this, the EC-1's Mechanics control allows for the fine tuning of mechanical component fluctuation replication. These fluctuations would commonly cause unpredictable modulation effects in the physical tapes, resulting in unique delay trail changes in voice and pitch. These additions, along with classic tape reel delay controls like signal Mix, Repeats and Tape Age, make the EC-1 a unique, charming, and authentic tape reel delay effect.

Connectivity plays a surprisingly big role on the EC-1 for its size. Thanks to Strymon's fine digital fashioning, the EC-1 can be run in mono-to-mono, mono-to-stereo, and stereo-to-stereo via a back panel switch, allowing for a selection of routing options. In addition, a TRS MIDI and USB-C connection allows for full MIDI integration with up to three hundred preset slots, real-time parameter control, and firmware updates. This digital wizardry is matched by Strymon's premium analog JFET input circuit, ensuring superb responsiveness while playing.

As the perfect piece to drop into a board for authentic tape echo tonality, the Strymon EC-1 has your back for all the sweet, psychedelic delays you've come to know and love.