To many, the original RE-201 Space Echo needs no introduction. It wasn't Roland's first tape echo unit, or even the first to feature a spring reverb tank, but its innovative tape mechanism and unique sound made it a bonafide classic, from its 1974 release through today. So much so that Roland and BOSS have continued to make new effects like it ever since.
The RE-202 is BOSS' latest—and greatest—take on the Space Echo in pedal form, following in the footsteps of 2007's RE-20. Using today's advanced digital tech, they've matched all of the character and idiosyncrasies of a vintage 201, from motor variations, the tonal changes of tape speed, and other "non-linear behaviors" that give the Space Echo its charm. And it also adds selectable new features that go beyond what the original can do.
The RE-2 does much the same but in a much more compact form. You still get access to three virtual playback heads, echo/reverb blend, and other crucial features. But BOSS saves space by nixing one mode, the 202's tape age and saturation controls, and the 202's preset memory.
In our video above, Andy Martin tests the brand new RE-202 against a 1981 RE-201, matching sound-for-sound, while also showing off the RE-2. Which one will you be getting?
RE-202 Space Echo
- 12-position mode selector that replicates the original
- Selectable tape age and variable controls
- Saturation control for warmth and compression
- Wow & Flutter knob for natural-sounding modulation
- Plus extended delay time, tap tempo, and preset memory
- A selectable fourth virtual tape head
- Stereo inputs and outputs
- $399.99 USD
RE-2 Space Echo
- 11-position mode selector
- Independent level controls for echo and reverb
- Wow & Flutter control for natural-sound modulation
- Plus extended delay time, selectable carryover, and tap tempo
- Stereo inputs and outputs
- $249.99 USD