Tape Echo (Mono, Stereo)
The Maestro Echoplex is a legendary tape delay unit first introduced in the 1960s, renowned for its warm, organic echo and distinctive preamp coloration. Utilizing a moving tape loop, it produces rich, natural-sounding repeats with subtle modulation and decay, making it a favorite among guitarists for both studio and live use. Its unique sound character and expressive control over delay time and feedback have made it an iconic effect, influencing countless recordings and inspiring modern digital emulations.
Fender Model Guide
Mono: Delivers organic repeats with gentle compression, harmonic richness and the character of a well-loved tape machine. Particularly effective for vintage-inspired ambience and expressive lead work.
- TIME Adjusts time before first repeat is heard.
- TAP DIVISION Synch delay time to the beat by selecting a subdivision of the current tempo.
- FEEDBACK Adjusts number of delay repeats. Caution: effect will self-oscillate at higher settings.
- MIX Adjusts level of delay effect.
- RECORD LEVEL Adjusts level of signal recorded on the tape, resulting in tape saturation at higher settings.
- TAPE BIAS Low bias settings mimic old and very worn tape; high bias results in tape that saturates easily and is prone to self-oscillation.
- TAPE NOISE Adjusts amount of self-noise simulating a worn-out tape cartridge.
- WOW AND FLUTTER Adjusts modulation speed intensity caused by inconsistent tape speed, uneven rollers and the tape splice junctions.
- SPILLOVER SWITCH Select to continue hearing delay repeats after effect has been bypassed.
Stereo: Extends the warmth and modulation of Tape Echo into a wide stereo image, allowing detailed rhythmic interplay between left and right channels. **CONTROLS** • DELAY TIME LEFT: Adjusts time before first left channel repeat is heard. • TAP DIVISION LEFT: Synch left delay time to the beat by selecting a subdivision of the current tempo. • DELAY TIME RIGHT: Adjusts time before first right channel repeat is heard. • TAP DIVISION RIGHT: Synch right delay time to the beat by selecting a subdivision of the current tempo. • FEEDBACK: Adjusts number of delay repeats. Caution: effect will self-oscillate at higher settings. • MIX: Adjusts level of delay effect. • RECORD LEVEL: Adjusts level of signal recorded on the tape, resulting in tape saturation at higher settings. • TAPE BIAS: Low bias settings mimic old and very worn tape; high bias results in tape that saturates easily and is prone to self-oscillation. • TAPE NOISE: Adjusts amount of self-noise simulating a worn-out tape cartridge. • WOW AND FLUTTER: Adjusts modulation speed intensity caused by inconsistent tape speed, uneven rollers and the tape splice junctions. • SPILLOVER SWITCH: Select to continue hearing delay repeats after effect has been bypassed.
From the Fender Tone Master Pro Model Guide
- Based on
- Maestro Echoplex
- Effect type
- Delay
- Real gear released
- 1959
Unofficial fan reference by Worship Calling. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Fender. Tone Master Pro is a trademark of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation. Other product names belong to their owners and are used only to identify the gear each model is based on. Details are a guide, so check the Fender manual for exact controls.