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Average Price: $799

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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 John Martyn uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

John Martyn

Guitarist, Singer

...
Verified via Guitarplayer

An Echoplex EP-3 sits atop the amp just behind him.

See how Peter Stroud uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Peter Stroud

Guitarist

Pete Droge & The Sinners

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Echoplex EP-3 is visible right above the Fender Deluxe Reverb amplifier.

See how Ted Leo uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Ted Leo

Singer, Guitarist

Gang of Four

...
Verified via Photo

Throughout the video, Ted's EP-3 can be seen sitting on top of his amp.

See how Edan uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Edan

Rapper, Music Producer

...
Verified via Analogue Foundation

In this Analogue Foundation article/interview, a Maestro Echoplex EP-3 can be seen on Edan's gear wall in his home studio, in the top right corner of the photo.

See how Aidan Knight uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Aidan Knight

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via Guitar.com | All Things Guitar

According to the Guitar.com's gear list located at the end of the interview, Knight uses Echoplex EP-3.

See how Andy Stavas uses Maestro Echoplex EP-3

Andy Stavas

Keyboardist

Kiev

...
Verified via Photo

Visible in this Instagram post by Kiev.

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
Akai MPC 2500
Akai MPC 2500 Production & Groove
1
Way Huge Pork Loin
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1
Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face
Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face Fuzz Effects Pedals
1
ARP 2600
ARP 2600 Synthesizers
1
Electro-Harmonix Small Stone
Electro-Harmonix Small Stone Phaser Effects Pedals
1
Fender Vibro-Champ
Fender Vibro-Champ Combo Guitar Amplifiers
1

Community setups

Show yours
jimmarchi1

jimmarchi1

Gear IQ 41029

blondguru

blondguru

Gear IQ 2065

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

Dunlop Echoplex Delay EP103

$199.99 - $235.00

newer cheaper alternative

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

Chase Tone Secret Preamp

 

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

$359.99 - $385.00

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

$109.45 - $159.00

similar sound cheaper alternative

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

Catalinbread Belle Epoch

$195.00 - $232.00

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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