Strymon EC-1 – The Pinnacle of Tape Delay Pedals
Introduction
The Strymon EC-1 reimagines the legendary sound of ‘60s tape echo units with stunning realism. Inspired by the Echoplex EP-2, this pedal offers lush stereo delays, rich harmonic saturation, and beautifully organic modulation from subtle imperfections. Thanks to Strymon’s advanced dTape technology, EC-1 faithfully replicates the dynamic character of classic tape machines, from warm slapback to evolving ambient textures.
With a high-performance JFET analog front-end, stereo signal path, MIDI control, and an intuitive UI, EC-1 is more than just a delay pedal—it’s a studio-quality tape echo powerhouse in a compact form.
Key Features
- Authentic Tape Delay – Captures the nuanced warmth, modulation, and saturation of vintage tape machines.
- Selectable Preamp Modes – Choose between classic EP-2 tube preamp or a warmer, modified preamp circuit.
- Stereo Processing – True stereo input/output with independent left/right signal processing.
- Artifact-Free Tap Tempo – No unwanted pitch shifts, clicks, or ramps when tapping in tempos.
- Mechanics Control – Adjust wow & flutter, crinkle, and capstan slippage for lifelike tape movement.
- Tape Age Control – Dial in fresh or worn tape characteristics for different tonal textures.
- Record Level Saturation – Choose from clean, lightly compressed, or heavily saturated echoes.
- Expression Pedal & MIDI Support – Assignable control over multiple parameters.
- USB Connectivity – Perform firmware updates and control via computer MIDI.
- Premium Analog & Digital Hybrid Design – JFET input section, 32-bit floating-point DSP, and 24-bit/96kHz A/D & D/A conversion for pristine sound.
Detailed Technical Specifications
Audio Processing
- Analog Front-End – Class A JFET input for high headroom and dynamic response.
- dTape System – Advanced Strymon tape emulation captures every mechanical nuance.
- Selectable Preamp Modes:
- EP-2 Tube Preamp Emulation – Brightens darker pickups.
- Warm Modded Preamp Circuit – Adds weight and character to single-coils.
- Bypass Option – For a pure dry signal path.
Effect Processing
- Tape Mechanics Control:
- Adjusts wow & flutter, crinkle, and capstan slippage.
- Tape Age Control:
- Simulates fresh or old tape characteristics.
- Record Level Saturation:
- Low – Clean repeats with optimized bias.
- Medium – +6dB boost for mild saturation.
- High – +12dB boost for heavy saturation.
- Repeats Control:
- High feedback settings create sound beds and self-oscillation effects.
Signal Chain & Routing
- Stereo TRS Input & Output – Fully independent stereo processing.
- Selectable Routing Options:
- Mono In → Mono Out
- Mono In → Stereo Out
- Stereo In → Stereo Out (TRS cables required).
Inputs & Outputs
- Stereo TRS Input (1M Ohm Impedance)
- Stereo TRS Output (100 Ohm Impedance)
- Expression Pedal Input – Supports TRS expression, MiniSwitch, MultiSwitch Plus, or TRS MIDI.
- USB Connection – For firmware updates and MIDI control via a computer.
MIDI & External Control
- Full MIDI Implementation – Control tempo, preset recall, and parameter modulation.
- Tap Tempo Divisions:
- Quarter, Dotted Eighth, Eighth, and Triplet.
Control & Display
- True/Buffered Bypass Switch – Choose between pure signal or seamless trails.
- LED Indicators – Show tempo and effect status.
Power & Build
- Power Supply: 9V DC, 250mA minimum (center-negative, not included).
- Chassis: Anodized aluminum, lightweight yet durable.
- Dimensions:
- Depth: 4.6” (11.7 cm)
- Width: 2.7” (6.9 cm)
- Height: 2.5” (6.4 cm)
- Designed & Built in the USA
Perfect for Every Setup
The Strymon EC-1 fits seamlessly into stereo and mono rigs, whether you're a guitarist, synthesist, or studio producer. The true tape delay warmth and stunning modulation effects make it an indispensable tool for genres ranging from vintage rock to ambient and experimental music.
Use it for:
- Classic Slapback Echo – Perfect for rockabilly, country, and blues.
- Lush Stereo Delays – Create three-dimensional echo textures for immersive soundscapes.
- Saturated Analog Warmth – Push the preamp for added harmonic richness.
- Experimental Sound Design – Manipulate tape artifacts for glitchy, warping delay effects.
Conclusion
The Strymon EC-1 captures the magic of vintage tape delay with modern MIDI control, stereo capability, and deep tone-shaping features. Whether you seek warm analog-style echoes, infinite feedback loops, or dreamy modulated repeats, this pedal delivers a sonic experience unlike any other.
Experience tape delay perfection with the Strymon EC-1.
