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Average Price: $799

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$501+

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Description

Introducing the Maestro Echoplex EP-3, a vintage tape delay that effortlessly captures the authentic sound of the '70s. This is not just an echo machine; it's a piece of history, featuring the innovative solid state technology developed by the legendary Mike Battle. This gear is renowned for its durability and affordability, setting it apart from its tube-wielding ancestors. The EP-3 is also notable for introducing the FET preamp that has been widely used by musicians, as Tom Verlaine put it, to "goose it up."

Key Features:

  • Authentic vintage tape delay, capturing the distinctive '70s sound
  • Utilizes solid state technology for increased durability and affordability
  • Features the FET preamp, often used by musicians for its distinct quality
  • Designed by Mike Battle, a notable figure in music gear history
  • Recognized for its unique echo effect

Product specs

Brand Maestro
Model Echoplex EP-3 Solid State
Finish Grey
Year 1970 - 1991
Made In United States
Categories Delay Pedals

FAQs

What makes the Maestro Echoplex EP-3 unique compared to other delay units?

The Maestro Echoplex EP-3 is renowned for its solid-state design, which provides a distinct preamp coloration that enhances the tonal quality of the signal, offering a warm, analog delay sound with bright echo repeats.

How does the preamp in the Echoplex EP-3 affect guitar tone?

The EP-3's preamp subtly rolls off some bass while enhancing upper-midrange presence, resulting in a clearer, more defined tone that many guitarists find enhances their overall sound.

Is the Maestro Echoplex EP-3 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the EP-3 is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build and the ability to add rich, analog delay effects that can be easily adjusted on stage.

What type of delay does the Maestro Echoplex EP-3 produce?

The EP-3 produces a tape delay effect, characterized by its warm, natural-sounding echoes that can create anything from subtle ambiance to dramatic, rhythmic repeats.

Can the Echoplex EP-3 be used with instruments other than guitar?

While the EP-3 is popular among guitarists, it can also be used with other instruments, such as keyboards and vocals, to add depth and character to the sound with its tape delay effect.

Reverb

Reverb

Maestro Echoplex EP-3 Solid State Tape Delay: Andy's Vintage Picks | Reverb Tone Report

Video thumbnail for Maestro Echoplex EP-3 Solid State Tape Delay: Andy's Vintage Picks | Reverb Tone Report by Reverb

Maestro Echoplex EP-3 Solid State Tape Delay: Andy's Vintage Picks | Reverb Tone Report

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for 【MAESTRO ECHOPLEX EP-3】ジミー・ペイジも使ってた!ガチのEPブースターのブースト量を検証!- ギター屋 funk ojisan by funk ojisan

【MAESTRO ECHOPLEX EP-3】ジミー・ペイジも使ってた!ガチのEPブースターのブースト量を検証!- ギター屋 funk ojisan

funk ojisan

funk ojisan

Video thumbnail for Maestro Echoplex 3 EP-3 tape echo by Alex T

Maestro Echoplex 3 EP-3 tape echo

Alex T

Alex T

Video thumbnail for Maestro Echoplex EP-3 function test by Granville Guitars

Maestro Echoplex EP-3 function test

Granville Guitars

Granville Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1973 Maestro EP-3 Echoplex Tape Delay - Quick Test - David Hislop by David Hislop

1973 Maestro EP-3 Echoplex Tape Delay - Quick Test - David Hislop

David Hislop

David Hislop

Video thumbnail for Maestro Echoplex EP-3 Vintage Tape Echo by Guitarsenal

Maestro Echoplex EP-3 Vintage Tape Echo

Guitarsenal

Guitarsenal

Video thumbnail for Maestro EP-3 Echoplex Tape Echo Delay Demo with Steve Kiernan | Guitar Hangar by Guitar Hangar - Lessons, Rentals, Repairs, and More

Maestro EP-3 Echoplex Tape Echo Delay Demo with Steve Kiernan | Guitar Hangar

Guitar Hangar - Lessons, Rentals, Repairs, and More

Guitar Hangar - Lessons, Rentals, Repairs, and More

Video thumbnail for The Maestro Echoplex EP-3: greatest tape delay ever by Tone Science

The Maestro Echoplex EP-3: greatest tape delay ever

Tone Science

Tone Science

Video thumbnail for Herbie Hancock demonstrate the Echoplex EP-3. 1973 by Adrian Täckman

Herbie Hancock demonstrate the Echoplex EP-3. 1973

Adrian Täckman

Adrian Täckman

Video thumbnail for Maestro Echoplex EP-3 In Depth by Pedal Science

Maestro Echoplex EP-3 In Depth

Pedal Science

Pedal Science

Video thumbnail for Maestro 1976 Echoplex EP-3 Light Gray [Solid State Tape Echo] by HOWL GUITARS

Maestro 1976 Echoplex EP-3 Light Gray [Solid State Tape Echo]

HOWL GUITARS

HOWL GUITARS

Video thumbnail for Maestro Echoplex EP3 Tape Echo Review (Vintage EP-3 Tones) by The Milliwatts

Maestro Echoplex EP3 Tape Echo Review (Vintage EP-3 Tones)

The Milliwatts

The Milliwatts

Reviews

PROS

  • Masterpiece in tape delay with unparalleled sound quality

  • Requires and rewards meticulous maintenance for optimal performance

  • Exceptionally clean and quiet operation suitable for recording

  • Unique self-oscillation and warmth in its Solid State version

  • Versatile: enhances guitars, synths, and even vocal tracks with dub style effects

  • Legendary, near-mythical reputation for its audio experience

  • Analog sound superiority, especially for delay effects

CONS

  • Requires time-consuming bridge and head alignment for best sound

  • Needs regular cleaning to maintain performance and quality

  • Matching record level to instrument can be challenging

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Maestro Echoplex EP-3.

Features and functionality

  • The Catalinbread Belle Epoch Deluxe effectively recreates the EP-3's preamp and offers additional non-EP-3 modes.

    Source
  • The Belle Epoch Deluxe replicates the EP-3's preamp by running at 22v, similar to the original, enhancing its sound quality beyond typical 9v setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Strymon El Capistan excels in emulating various EP-3 conditions with single head mode, rivaling the Belle Epoch Deluxe.

    Source
  • The Belle Epoch Deluxe is often preferred over the El Capistan for its closer emulation of the EP-3, due to its part-by-part recreation approach.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A JFET-based overdrive or boost can effectively replicate the EP-3 preamp when paired with the El Capistan.

    Source

User experience

  • The Hermida Audio EPH-103 is praised for its authentic EP-3 emulation, with owners wishing for a version with tap tempo.

    Source
  • Many users find the Belle Epoch Deluxe's sound and response to closely mimic the EP-3, particularly appreciating the control over low end roll off and repeat warble.

    Source
  • Some users report the unique degradation of an EP-3 over time adds a specific charm, despite maintenance challenges.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • EP-3 models require frequent maintenance and can become unreliable over time, with many owners experiencing noise and degradation issues.

    Source
  • Real EP-3 units are heavy, weighing over 20 lbs, and are impractical for pedalboards, often requiring dedicated studio space.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kurt Cobain uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Kurt Cobain

Singer, Guitarist

Nirvana

...
Verified via YouTube

Kurt Cobain, the renowned guitarist and singer, explicitly mentioned owning and utilizing an Echoplex in an interview hosted by Nardwuar the Human Serviette, which took place on January 4, 1994. During this discussion, at a specific timestamp (1:01), Cobain can be heard talking about owning and using an Echoplex. This information is further substantiated by additional confirmation from a dedicated gear website: https://whatgear.com/pro/kurt-cobain/maestro-echoplex

See how Jimmy Page uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Jimmy Page

Guitarist

Led Zeppelin

...
Verified via Led-zeppelin

Jimmy has been using the echoplex from the 1972 US tour to present-day. He has used 2 echoplexes over the years, one for his guitar, and one for his theremin.

See how Eddie Van Halen uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Eddie Van Halen

Guitarist

Van Halen

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo EVH can clearly be seen with 2 Maestro EP3 Echoplex tape delays. Eddie was known to favor the EP3 for delay throughout the 70s and into the 80s.

See how Brian May uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Brian May

Singer, Guitarist

Queen

...
Verified via Petecornish

By January 1976 Brian May was using 9 X AC30 amps on stage and the same 2 Echoplex EP3 Delays (see photo 9 X AC30 + EP3s) – this required an enlarged Routing System which I designed and built. Despite the large number of Vox AC30's then in use my system successfully eliminated all Ground Loop hum and noise.

See how Bruce Springsteen uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Bruce Springsteen

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

Bruce used an EP-3 Echoplex unit during the Born to Run, Darkness tours and No Nukes concert. In the attached image from the No Nukes concert, you can see the Echoplex to the left of his Tweed amplifiers.

An EP-3 Echoplex would also be used during the recording of Nebraska, being applied as an effect to the original cassette tape.

See how George Lynch uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

George Lynch

Guitarist

Dokken

...
Verified via Georgelynch

George changes equipment like underwear. On his 2004 tour, I personally carried his Echoplex EP3 back to his tour bus after a gig. He also has an Echoplex tube EP2 that he has used.

See how Adrian Utley uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Adrian Utley

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Portishead

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, the interviewer is lucky enough to be invited into Adrian Utley's private studio and compare his real Echoplex EP3 with the Jim Dunlop EP 101 EP3 preamp emulator. We also get Ade's thoughts on tape echo what to use live.

See how Philip Sayce uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Philip Sayce

Singer, Guitarist

The Jeff Healey Band

...
Verified via Facebook

In this Facebook post Philip posted a picture of his pedalboard with the Maestro EP-3 Tape Echo.

See how Herbie Hancock uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Herbie Hancock

Keyboardist

The Headhunters

...
Verified via YouTube

Hancock recorded a demo discussing and using the Echoplex EP-3 tape delay.

See how Jared James Nichols uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Jared James Nichols

Guitarist

...
Verified via Guitarguitar

All of the reverbs were a natural reverb from a hallway. So if there's ever a reverb, it's from a hallway. We just put a speaker in the hallway. We had an old (Echoplex) EP-3, so Eddie was using that, the producer was using that in the room. And when I would take a solo, if you ever hear Delays, it's literally him with an EP-3, moving it.

See how Steve Cropper uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Steve Cropper

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified

Guitarist Steve Cropper confirmed the use of the Maestro Echoplex EP-3 on some tracks of the "One More" album with Booker T, stating, "Back in the 70’s when we did that 'One More' album we were trying to get cute and I used an Echoplex on some of the Booker T songs. And everybody liked it, but I got tired of carrying it on the road." This information is sourced from an interview on Guy Guitars.

See how Daniel Donato uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Daniel Donato

Guitarist

Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country

...
Verified via Guitar-Muse.com

"Signal chain: Custom shop Tele > Lava and Planet Waves cables > Peterson Stomp Classic Strobe Tuner > Wampler Ego Compressor > Way Huge Pork Loin > Electro Harmonix Soul Food > MXR Echoplex Preamp to a Mooer Ana Echo to a Hardwire DL-8 >1967 Fender Pro Reverb with Weber Speakers. I also use an EP-3 Echoplex most nights!"

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Maestro Echoplex EP-3, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Dunlop EP101 Echoplex Preamp Boost Effects Pedals
2
Electro-Harmonix Small Stone
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1
Maestro Echoplex
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1
Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 73
Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 73 Vintage & Electric Pianos
1
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Akai MPC 2500
Akai MPC 2500 Production & Groove
1
Way Huge Pork Loin
Way Huge Pork Loin Overdrive Effects Pedals
1
Roland RE-201 Space Echo
Roland RE-201 Space Echo Effects Processors
1
Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face
Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face Fuzz Effects Pedals
1

Community setups

Show yours
jimmarchi1

jimmarchi1

Gear IQ 40997

blondguru

blondguru

Gear IQ 2065

21 alternative and related items for Maestro Echoplex EP-3, curated by the Equipboard community.

Dunlop Echoplex Delay EP103

$198.51 - $239.00

newer cheaper alternative

An EP-3 inspired delay pedal, built by Dunlop/MXR.

Chase Tone Secret Preamp

$178.86

similar sound cheaper alternative

For those looking to use the EP-3 Echoplex for its preamp, the Secret Preamp by Chase Tone is a faithful reproduction favored by various professionals.

Catalinbread Belle Epoch Deluxe

$305.99 - $389.00

similar sound cheaper alternative mod

One of the most fully featured and realistic EP-3 emulations, the Belle Epoch Deluxe also offers expression pedal functionality.

Xotic Effects EP Booster

$122.00 - $159.00

similar sound cheaper alternative

A widely popular, pedal reproduction of the EP-3 preamp.

Catalinbread Belle Epoch

$178.49 - $233.00

similar sound cheaper alternative

The Belle Epoch is based on the EP-3 Echoplex. From Catalinbread:

The Belle Epoch features everything you love about the EP-3 in a small, maintenance free pedal format. They share almost identical input and output circuit topologies, including the passive unbuffered mixer circuit of the EP-3. However, we tuned it to have a lower output impedance than the EP-3 to not load down the output as much while still retaining the open non-buffered output interface.

Dunlop EP101 Echoplex Preamp

$128.00 - $159.99

newer similar sound cheaper alternative

A licensed reissue of the EP-3's legendary preamp.

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