The ECHOVERB boasts 6 replay heads with one record and erase head, offering 6 different delay times, which can be used in any combination along with a tape reverb mode too.
UK based Blue Coconut Ltd, manufacturers of the ECHOVERB commissioned Terry MacDonald to design the unit from the ground up, and this is the result of 2 years of research and development. Terry was the right man for the job as a former freelance consultant for the Watkins/WEM company which built tape echo units in the 6o’s he has 38 years of experience with the technology making him one of the major authoritative figures in the UK on tape echoes.
Being a totally new design rather than a copy, the aim was to eliminate all the problems associated with early tape echo machines, improving the performance, whilst retaining the unique analogue tape echo sound which has never been achieved through digital devices, be it hardware or software based plug-ins. Modern improvements for example include extremely low noise circuitry and the ability to select any combination of 6 available heads. Also, a precision custom made fly wheel ensures no noticeable pitch deviation (WOW and Flutter), compared to that of the old tape echo device. It also has a solid chassis with an authentic but contemporary look and gives function and reliability both for the gigging musician, and for a studio environment.
For the musician, the front panel has hi/low gain jack inputs for instruments along with a separate jack insert and return for guitar pedals, and an echo on/off jack footswitch. On the rear of the unit, line level transformer balanced XLR’s are provided for professional studio applications. Front panel controls include input gain, echo level, variable speed, sustain, and output levels along with tone/EQ and echo bypass. An optional aluminium and Perspex head guard is available separately and a sliding rack mount tray with built in storage compartment for tape loops, head cleaner etc.
Unity Audio Ltd are involved in this project as the exclusive distributors for the ECHOVERB and have formed Blue Coconut Unity to development and market other future products. We’ve conducted research by asking for the opinions and suggestions from many artists, engineers, producers and distributors. The overall outcome was that even now in 2007, the response to a new tape echo unit being manufactured was overwhelming! Many leading professionals still like the idea of using tape echo, or indeed are still use old existing units, many of which are on their last legs, because nothing has been able to recreate that unique sound and the hands on approach, until now!
A sneak preview of a unit appeared at the Frankfurt Music Messe show, which certainly turned a few heads and has already resulted in advance orders.
The first ECHOVERB units will be shipping at the end of October for a retail price of £1600.00 ex VAT. (Euro 2378 ex. VAT).