Strymon Tape Echo

When we decided to develop an effects pedal that delivers the sound and feel of our favorite tape echo machines, we knew we must relentlessly study and faithfully recreate every last nuance. We spent months in the Strymon sound design labs with an intense focus on capturing the warm, saturated, distinctive qualities of tape echo machines. The result is our hand crafted dTape™ technology. Utilizing a ridiculously powerful SHARC DSP, every drop of processing power is harnessed.

El Capistan provides three different tape machine types in one, each with three unique modes. With ten parameters to tweak, you get extensive control over tape quality, machine health and tone shaping. Go from the sound of a pristine, studio-quality tape machine to the heavily fluctuating sound of a machine in need of service. Get the full bodied sound of fresh tape all the way to the gnarled qualities of worn out tape. Because it’s DSP driven, you get a range of tape experiences unattainable with a traditional tape machine. All of this without the headaches of tape machine maintenance and repair!

Hand crafted dTape algorithms deliver meticulous and nuanced recreations of tape echo systems.
Three tape machines in one: Fixed (one fixed playback head), Multi (multiple playback heads), and Single (sliding record head)
Each tape machine has three modes for extremely flexible echo options
Five tape adjustment and tone shaping knobs: Time, Mix, Tape Age, Repeats, Wow & Flutter
Five “hidden” knobs for extensive tone tweaking: Tape Crinkle, Tape Bias, Low End Contour, Spring Reverb, +/- 3dB Boost/Cut
Sound on Sound mode with instant tape splice and bulk erase. A built-in tape-style looper!

Stereo output
High impedance mono input (internal jumper enables selectable TRS stereo input) Please read this FAQ for more info on the TRS input.
Expression pedal input with selectable control over any knob parameter
Connect our optional Favorite switch to save a favorite preset
Tap Tempo and Bypass footswitches

Ultra low noise, high performance 24-bit 96kHz A/D and D/A converters
115dB typical signal to noise
Analog dry path for a zero latency dry signal that is never converted to digital
Premium analog front end and output section
Super high performance DSP in a compact form factor

True Bypass (electromechanical relay switching)
Selectable “trails” mode with high quality Analog Buffered Bypass
Press and hold Tap for instant infinite repeats
Powered with a standard 9V center negative DC supply. 250mA minimum
Strong and lightweight gunmetal gray anodized aluminum chassis
Crafted with love in the USA