Strymon EC-1 Single Head dTape Echo

A Timeless Classic Reborn
Strymon’s EC-1 captures the magic of ‘60s tape echo, blending lush, organic modulation with a warm tube preamp. From subtle slapback to expansive stereo echoes, EC-1 delivers rich harmonic textures, smooth tape saturation, and a beautifully tuned low-frequency response.

Full-Featured Compact Stereo Tape Echo
EC-1 offers selectable tube-modeled preamp voices, artifact-free tap tempo, and discrete stereo processing. Featuring a high-impedance Class A JFET input for exceptional touch sensitivity, MIDI control, and USB connectivity, it ensures premium performance in a rugged, compact form.

Tape, Tubes, and the Best of the Best
Built on Strymon’s renowned dTape technology, EC-1 draws inspiration from a meticulously modified Echoplex EP-2. This special unit, fine-tuned by legendary technician Cesar Diaz, informed the development of EC-1, combining the best qualities of vintage tape echoes.

Sound Design & Features

• Preamp: Two tube-modeled preamp circuits enhance the input signal, offering vintage warmth and an optional +6dB boost.

• dTape System: Accurately replicates tape conditions, bias settings, and mechanical imperfections for authentic echoes.

• Record Level: A three-way toggle adjusts input gain, shaping saturation from clean to heavily colored.

• Mechanics Control: Captures motor fluctuations and tape irregularities, creating immersive stereo modulation.

• Tape Age: Adjusts warmth and bandwidth, emulating fresh or aged tape characteristics.

• Repeats: Provides rich echo layers with precise control over feedback and saturation.

• Discrete Stereo: Independently processes left and right channels, with multiple routing options via a TRS input/output setup.

• Tap Tempo: Seamlessly adjusts delay time without pitch artifacts, preserving natural feel and groove.

Technical Specs

• Premium JFET analog front end

• 24-bit/96kHz converters with 32-bit floating-point processing

• 20Hz–20kHz frequency response, 116dB SNR

• MIDI and expression pedal compatibility

• Rugged anodized aluminum chassis

• 9V DC power, 250mA minimum (power supply not included)

• Designed and built in the USA

EC-1 embodies Strymon’s commitment to exceptional sound quality, combining analog warmth with cutting-edge digital precision.