The Roland RE-201 Space Echo is truly a Vintage (1973) piece of music technology with lots of appeal even today. It's not a synth, but a Tape-Echo machine for creating true analog echo effects. The RE-201 is a simple system in which a small loop of tape records an incoming signal and immediately plays the recorded sound back over a couple playback heads before being erased over by new incoming audio. A real analog system with warm, gritty and almost noiseless operation, the Space Echo can provide warm, unpredictable and highly tweakable echo effects.

There are twelve settings to adjust various tape loop speeds, number of repeats, levels, intensity, etc... It can even generate some of its own feedback loops for instant sci-fi effects. It features a built in spring reverb for even more classic analog effects. The RE-201 not only has Vintage appeal but is still widely used to get those dubby, slightly unpredictable, musically analog echo effects. It's a definite must for the TripHop and dub genres. It has been used by Portishead, Underworld, Fatboy Slim, Dust Brothers, Jean Michel-Jarre, Mr. Oizo, Bob Marley, Vangelis, Sneaker Pimps, Future Sound of London, The Orb, KISS, Sublime, Luke Vibert, Radiohead, Lauryn Hill and Tomita.

Nick Esposito

March 27, 2009 @ 8:23 pm

KISS used one of these?!
Without this gadget, the Future Sound of London's signature echoes wouldn't exist!

Burnsie

February 4, 2009 @ 3:24 pm

Was the delay used for the SH-2 sequence on "Save a Prayer."

Walt

February 1, 2009 @ 12:17 am

I use this for the wetness to my sounds. Incredible set up with a THD head. Any knowledge on getting parts for the RE 201?
Seems the 12 position switch is on it's way out and it could use a new reverb system. I use this every day and want to keep it in good shape.

Nemo

January 8, 2009 @ 5:33 pm

I don't remember where I saw the tape cartridge but i am using a swtch pedal that i bought at the local music store. I forget which one it is but i know if you take it in to a music store they can find one that's compatible with the space echo.

Neil Wilkes

January 5, 2009 @ 11:04 am

@ pflosi - you can use this in stereo. It's all on the card stapled to the inner lid of the tape module.

What I would love to know is how to adjust the tensions on the tape transports - the one I just got given (talk about lucky) works, is very clean, but the cart is shot. There is a kink in the tape & it keeps jamming. I'm gonna try cleaning it but I know it needs a new tape cart.

Anyone got any idea where to get a couple? And maybe a footswitch too?

<4321>

 

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