1972 Shin-Ei Uni-Vibe – All Original, Exceptional Collector’s Example

For sale is an exceptionally well-preserved original 1972 Shin-Ei Uni-Vibe, one of the most iconic and influential effects ever made.

The original Uni-Vibe has become legendary through its association with players such as Jimi Hendrix and Robin Trower, and its unmistakable swirling, three-dimensional sound has been heard on some of the most celebrated guitar recordings of the era. This is not a modern reproduction or reissue, but a genuine early-1970s Shin-Ei unit.

This particular Uni-Vibe is in remarkably fine and original condition. All components are original, including the crucial internal lamp and photocells that form the heart of the Uni-Vibe circuit. The lamp, photocells and electronic components have been carefully inspected.

Importantly, the original lamp has never been replaced. After more than 50 years, its output is naturally somewhat weaker than when new, and consequently the chorus effect is more subtle than it would have been originally. I have deliberately chosen not to replace the lamp, as preserving the originality of an instrument of this historical significance is, in my opinion, more important than maximizing the effect depth.

A new lamp could of course be fitted if the next owner wishes to restore the strongest possible chorus modulation, but the original lamp will remain with the unit.

At this point, this Uni-Vibe should be regarded as much as a museum-grade piece of guitar-effects history as a musical tool.

The unit retains its original 117V power supply. For European buyers, I will also include a suitable step-down transformer, allowing it to be safely operated from European mains voltage without modifying the original Uni-Vibe in any way.

Highlights:

• Genuine 1972 Shin-Ei Uni-Vibe
• Exceptionally original and well-preserved example
• All-original electronics and components
• Original photocells
• Original lamp – never replaced
• Electronics, lamp and photocells inspected
• Original 117V power supply
• Step-down transformer included for European use
• No unnecessary modifications made
• A rare opportunity to acquire an increasingly difficult-to-find piece of early effects history

For the serious vintage-effects collector, Hendrix enthusiast or player looking for the genuine article, this is an opportunity to own an authentic early-1970s Shin-Ei Uni-Vibe preserved in remarkably original condition.

More than fifty years after it was made, very few examples remain this complete and unaltered.