The BOSS RE-20 Space Echo is one of Boss’ best-selling effects pedals. Based on Roland’s RE-201 Space Echo tape echo device, it digitally models the incredible delay and spring reverb effects of the original. Now available on the website or in-store.
The Space Echo was developed by Japanese engineer and entrepreneur, Ikutaro Kakehashi, founder of Roland Corporation. Ikutaro’s creative output and career made him one of the pioneers of electronic music production devices. The RE-201s are known for their unpredictable echo and delay sounds because of the use of magnetic tape. You’re able to create unique sounds of bent signals by changing the speed of the tape or by turning the intensity controls up to produce a self-osillating effect. Some of the most well-known uses of these effects are found in Dub from Jamaican artists like King Tubby, Lee Scratch Perry and The Scientist (to name a few).
There are two famous tape echos that preceed Roland’s: The EchoSonic and the Echoplex. The EchoSonic was an amplifier with a built-in tape echo effect developed in the 50s. Chet Atkins owned the second one ever built. The Echoplex took the idea and perfected it as it’s own unit that could be played into any amplifier. The Echoplex was embraced by guitarists and is still sought-after for it’s buttery, warm delay.
Kakehashi’s other giant contributions to the world of electronic music include the TR-808 drum machine, the TR-303 bass synth, and the Juno 60 and 106 synthesizers. He also played a key role in the development of MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) in the early 80s.
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