Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $1,710
High-end/Boutique
$100
$501+
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Budget
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High-end
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Description
Step back in time with the Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo, a distinguished member of Roland's legendary RE series. Known for its tape delay technology, this effects processor brings warm, rich echoes to your studio or live setup. The RE-501 is celebrated for its ability to produce lush, ethereal soundscapes thanks to its combination of tape echo, chorus, and reverb. Musicians and producers alike revere its reliability and smooth, organic sound.
This unit features three independent effect sections: tape echo, reverb, and chorus, which can be used simultaneously or independently for versatile sound shaping. Its built-in compressor helps ensure consistent echo levels, making the RE-501 a reliable choice for professional audio production. With an easy-to-use interface, this effects processor is designed to facilitate creativity without the hassle of complex operation.
The BBD chorus circuit in the RE-501 is a standout feature, offering a lush, musical modulation that enhances your sound without overpowering it. This processor is perfect for those who crave the nostalgic warmth of analog effects, yet appreciate the modern conveniences of a stable and durable unit.
Key Features:
- Tape echo with variable delay times
- Built-in BBD chorus and spring reverb
- Independent effect sections for flexible sound processing
- Integrated compressor for consistent echo levels
- Durable construction for long-term use
- Easy-to-use interface for quick adjustments
- Ideal for both studio and live environments
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | RE-501 Chorus Echo |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1980s |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Delay Pedals |
FAQs
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What are the main features of the Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo?
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The Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo offers a tape-based delay with chorus and reverb effects, known for its warm, rich sound. It includes a noise reduction system, four playback heads for varied tonal options, and a built-in analog chorus.
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How does the Roland RE-501 differ from the RE-301?
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The RE-501 includes an additional playback head for more tonal variety, features improved noise reduction, and offers a quieter operation compared to the RE-301.
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Is the Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo suitable for studio use?
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Yes, the Roland RE-501 is highly regarded for studio use due to its high-quality tape echo, chorus, and reverb effects, along with its noise reduction capabilities, making it ideal for professional recording environments.
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Can the Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo be used for live performances?
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While primarily designed for studio use, the Roland RE-501 can be used in live settings, offering reliable and rich echo effects. However, its vintage design may require careful handling and setup.
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What type of maintenance does the Roland RE-501 require?
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Regular maintenance for the Roland RE-501 includes cleaning and demagnetizing the tape heads, replacing the tape loop as needed, and ensuring the unit is kept in a stable environment to prevent wear.
Videos
Doctor Mix
Roland RE-501 Tape Delay In Action
Reviews
PROS
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Classic tape echo sound unmatched by digital emulators
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Balanced in-and-outputs ensure clean signal for studio use
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Vintage gear with unique sound characteristics
CONS
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Prone to technical issues, including sound drop and 'hitch' like break up
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High asking price not justified for everyone
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Can be considered more of a vanity piece than a necessity
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo.
Features and functionality
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The RE-501 is noted for its hi-fi sound and lower noise floor compared to the RE-201, with a surprisingly good chorus effect and underwhelming reverb.
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The chorus on the RE-501 in mono is described as pitchy and less effective than a CE2, with limited control over speed adjustments.
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Owners report that the spring reverb on the RE-501 is just passable compared to a Fender amp but can be enhanced using its tone controls.
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Use cases and applications
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Owners find the RE-501 suitable for reamping vocals and drums, while the RE-201 is preferred for guitars due to its warm, lo-fi repeats.
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User experience
Comparisons
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The RE-501 and RE-201 are similar, but the RE-501 offers cleaner sound and additional features like chorus, making it distinct enough to justify owning both.
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Users suggest that the Duncan Vaportrail pedal captures the RE-501's vibe, offering a warm sound with subtle modulation similar to BBD delays.
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The preamp stage in old Roland effects significantly colors the signal, a feature often missing in modern digital emulations, affecting their authenticity.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 17 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Can be seen underneath the RE-201 in this photo, ontop of a rack on his main work desk in his studio.
At 58:45 in the Premier Guitar video titled "Nashville Riffmaker: Sol Philcox-Littlefield Rig Rundown Guitar Gear," Sol Philcox-Littlefield is observed using the Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo.
Dan uses the RE-501 in studio, as shown behind the chair in this picture taken from cut/copy's Twitter profile (https://i.imgur.com/njHlBbN.png)
In the YouTube video titled "Cozy LA HOME STUDIO Setup | DAVID PETERS 2026 Studio Tour" by David Peters, at the timestamp 12:51, David Peters is shown demonstrating a Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo placed in the effects rack of his studio.
Album Usage
The Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo has been featured on the following albums:
Funeral for Justice (Injustice Version)
Mdou Moctar (2025)
Oh France
Mdou Moctar (2024)
Funeral for Justice
Mdou Moctar (2024)
血まみれのアンヌ
Masonna (2023)
Rolling in the Deep
Adele (2011)
InnerSpeaker
Tame Impala & Kevin Parker (2010)
The Fall
Norah Jones (2009)
Forth
The Verve (2008)
Songs of Faith and Devotion (Deluxe)
Depeche Mode (1993)
Stop Making Sense (Live)
Talking Heads (1984)
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 Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation2 alternative and related items for Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo, curated by the Equipboard community.
$1,976.32
According to Roland: "The RE-501/SRE-555 were essentially the exact same machine, but built into two different form factors; the RE-501 keeping the classic tolex-covered wooden box of the Space Echo machines before it, whilst the SRE-555 took the form of a large 19” rackmountable chassis."
$1,100.00
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