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CHAPTER 21
EP-34 Classic Tape Echo
EP-34 Overview
The EP-34 combines EP-3 and EP-4 sonics and features to achieve the best of
the later solid-state Echoplex* designs. The Echoplex uses an infinite tape
loop combined with a sliding record head that allows the user to achieve the
desired delay length. EP-34 emulates the great idiosyncrasies of these
tape-based echo units such as the unique Echo Delay record head slider that
can be moved in real-time while used in conjunction with the Echoplex's Echo
Repeats control to create echo and pitch chaos. The distinct and musical input
clipping is captured in the units' Record Volume control making the EP-34 a
tone box for distortion. Echo Volume allows the blending of the original and
effected signal, however even the dry signal is affected by the unit. The
Echoplex self-oscillation capabilities are captured as well, including the
"squelch" effect (an interruption in self-oscillation) achieved at extreme set-
tings when processing low-frequency material like drum loops with heavy kick
drum. All this makes the EP-34 more than just a delay, but an instrument that
can be played by manipulating the controls while in chaotic oscillation. Just
like the hardware, faster-than-tape-path speeds can also be achieved, leading
to 'sonic-boom/tape squeal' effects again adding to chaotic but musical at-
tributes of the original hardware. The EP-34 also has other warts-and-all arti-
facts of tape such as self-chorusing due to speed variations caused by random
friction in the tape path plus pinch roller wow and flutter. The EP-34 includes
the metering and unusual but uniquely musical tone controls found on the
EP-4, but removes its undesirable in-line noise reduction circuit that users often
electronically disabled (Maestro removed this circuit soon after the product's
release).
"Extras" not found on the original hardware include Tempo Sync, Input Select
(allows for a cleaner sound [LO] or a dirtier sound [HI]), Tension (the Echoplex
has an adjustable tension nut underneath the delay time slider for a snappy
or sludgy response time), Echo Send (identical in function to RE-201 "dub
switch"), Wet Solo, Pan (wet signal only), and Power (plug-in bypass).
*EP-34 Tape Echo is not affiliated with, sponsored nor endorsed by any companies currently using
the Echoplex name. The EP-34 Tape Echo name, as well as the EP-3 and EP-4 model names, are
used solely to identify the classic effects emulated by Universal Audio's product.
UAD Powered Plug-Ins Manual
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Chapter 21: EP-34 Classic Tape Echo
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