Echo Fix EF-X3 Desktop Tape Echo with BBD Chorus & Spring Reverb - Black with Tolex

The Echo Fix EF‑X3 is a modern analog tape echo unit with built-in spring reverb and chorus effects. Modeled after a popular vintage tape echo heard on tons of 1970s rock and psychedelic records, the Echo Fix EF-X3 uses real magnetic tape to provide the warmth, saturation, and natural decay that only analog tape can provide. Multiple playback heads with discrete outputs make the EF-X3 incredibly versatile for mixing and recording. Plus, the analog chorus and reverb effects add extra layers of shimmer and spaciousness. Best of all, modern features like a handy sliding door system and auto tape stop function make the EF-X3 infinitely easier to use and maintain than vintage tape echoes.

FOUR TAPE HEADS WITH INDIVIDUAL OUTS

The Echo Fix EF‑X3 features four playback heads which can be toggled in various combinations via the Echo Mode settings for a variety of delay times and rhythmic patterns. The rear panel of the EF-X3 provides discrete outputs for each head on 1/4" TRS connectors, giving you the flexibility to record, mix, and process each signal individually. This configuration gives you the freedom to create stereo ping‑pong delay effects, pan each repeat in 3D for immersive spatial echoes, or create unique feedback loops by sending one or more delay signals back into the EF-X3.

ANALOG SPRING REVERB

Experience authentic old-school reverb with the EF‑X3’s analog spring tank. Just like the springs found in vintage guitar amps, organs, and retro studio gear, this fully analog effect sends audio through a set of metal springs and records the other end with a special transducer, adding a luscious sense of space with unique envelope and lingering tail. Blend it in with the echo and chorus to enhance the overall effect, or use it on its own to give dry signals such as guitars and vocals a bit of vintage flavor.

ANALOG BBD CHORUS

The Echo Fix EF‑X3 also includes an Analog BBD Chorus that gives you that unmistakable warble and shimmer heard on so many classic records. Using a BBD (Bucket Brigade Delay) design, this fully analog effect can produce a range of tones from simple doubling effects to swirling, washy choruses using just the Chorus Rate and Chorus Depth controls. Combined with real tape delay or used on its own, the Echo Fix EF-X3's BBD Chorus adds even more versatility to this already mind-blowing device.

SLIDING DRAWER SYSTEM

Real vintage tape echo units are notoriously finicky and require regular maintenance and service to run smoothly. While the Echo Fix EF-X3 is far more reliable and easier to use, it does still require some maintenance, but its handy sliding drawer design makes accessing the tape path incredibly easy and quick. Whether you need to clean the heads, replace the tape, or simply inspect the unit’s inner workings, the sliding drawer system makes servicing the EF-X3 a breeze.

AUTO TAPE STOP CIRCUIT

The Echo Fix EF‑X3 includes an auto tape stop circuit that automatically halts the tape mechanism when no input signal is present, protecting the tape, motor, and heads from unnecessary wear. By preventing constant operation when not in use, this feature extends the lifespan of the EF-X3 without having to to shut it off during moments of downtime.

VERSATILE CONTROLS

The front-panel controls on the Echo Fix EF‑X3 are reminiscent of vintage tape delays, with a few extra features that increase its usefulness. The Echo Mode, Bass, Treble, Feedback, Tape Speed, and Echo Volume, and Guitar/Line Volume (preamp) are used for dialing in echo effects. Plus, the Reverb Volume, Chorus Rate, and Chorus Depth make it easy to dial in a wide range of additional effects. A set of switches at the bottom allows you to manually toggle the direct signal in or out, turn the motor on or off, engage the Reverb and Chorus effects, and more. Finally, the CV control inputs for motor speed and feedback level make the EF-X3 compatible with expression pedals and modular synthesizers.

ECHO FIX EF-X3 FEATURES:

• Authentic analog tape delay, reverb, and chorus effect in a modern desktop unit
• Individual head outputs for flexible recording, mixing, and processing
• Real springs for vintage-style ambience to complement your echo
• Analog BBD chorus with rate and depth controls for lush modulation
• Auto tape stop function to extend tape and motor life
• Sliding drawer system for easy head cleaning and tape replacement
• Independent SOS switching for longer delay time (1.2 seconds)
• Direct wet output at rear for 'verb and chorus
• CV Control for Motor Speed and Feedback level (0-5V) via compatible Expression Pedals
• Bass and treble controls for echo signal
• Vintage-style FET preamp
• Supports line level and instrument inputs
• High/low output level switch
• Motor ON/Switch for tape slow down effect
• Footswitch inputs for muting the reverb, echo, and chorus signals
• Comes with a worldwide-compatible, 100 - 240V power supply (no step-down or other transformers required)
• Removable metal lid with a scratch‑resistant front panel