Photo of WEM Watkins Copicat in a pedalboard, studio, and guitar

Photo of WEM Watkins Copicat and more gear in a studio, guitar, and amplifier

Watkins WEM Watkins Copicat

$627.41 Price Tier: High-end

4.0 (8)

1 Critic Review

3 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using Watkins Copicat

5 community setups

12 wishlisted

40 saved

Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (2)

$627.41 1 available Used

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Average Price: $627

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Effects Processors category, WEM Watkins Copicat is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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The most famous Tape-Echo Unit in Britain, and possibly in the World, the Copicat also happens to be the first repeat-echo machine manufactured as one compact unit. It was designed by Charlie Watkins in 1958, apparently after he heard a similar sound effect generated by two linked studio quality tape recorders for the Italian singer Marino Marini. Following its introduction, the tape-echo sound revolutionised pop music during the late 1950's and early 1960's, being behind the guitar sound of the top British bands including The Shadows. It also served a secondary purpose after being adopted for providing echo on vocals - the two volume controls acted as a rudimentary microphone mixer. These little machines sold by the thousand!!

Product specs

Brand	WEM
Model	Watkins Copicat IC300 Tape Echo
Finish	Metal with Black Case
Year	1970s
Made In	United Kingdom
Categories	Delay Pedals

FAQs

What type of delay does the WEM Watkins Copicat produce?: The WEM Watkins Copicat produces a classic tape delay effect, known for its warm, analog sound and natural echo decay, characteristic of vintage tape echo units.
Is the WEM Watkins Copicat suitable for live performances?: Yes, the WEM Watkins Copicat is suitable for live performances, offering reliable tape echo effects that add depth and character to guitar and vocal performances on stage.
How does the WEM Watkins Copicat differ from digital delay pedals?: Unlike digital delay pedals, the WEM Watkins Copicat uses an analog tape mechanism, providing a warmer, more organic sound with natural modulation and subtle imperfections typical of vintage tape echoes.
Can the WEM Watkins Copicat be used with instruments other than guitar?: Yes, the WEM Watkins Copicat can be used with a variety of instruments, including vocals and keyboards, to add rich, analog delay effects to any audio signal.
What maintenance does the WEM Watkins Copicat require?: The WEM Watkins Copicat requires regular maintenance, such as cleaning the tape heads and replacing the tape loop, to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the tape delay effect.

Videos

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Nick Adams

Watkins Copicat Mk3 Valve Echo Demonstration.

Nick Adams

WEM Watkins Copicat Analog Tape Delay SS with Wet / Dry Mod

marcusdolby1

Watkins WEM Copicat 60 Second Demo IC-300

jrsrareguitars

Sabella Studios: Watkins Copicat Mk II & Mk IV comparison (solid state & valve) also MXR Carbon Copy

Sabella Studios

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional analog delay tones, crisp and genuine
Offers a variety of sounds: rockabilly, cavernous tones, haunting pads
Simple transport design, no need for expensive tape cartridges
Can be used with a compressor for expanded soundscapes
Synchronous AC motors minimize mechanical noise
Footswitch adds practicality for live performance
Works well for both recording and live gigs
Unique color and dynamic response not found in digital delays

CONS

Requires proper earthing to avoid potential electrical hazards
Finding the "sweet spots" can be time-consuming
Basic and noisy, inherent to its vintage design
Lacks varispeed, limiting some sound manipulation options

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about WEM Watkins Copicat.

Use cases and applications

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Owners love using the Copicat for slapback effects on vocals and drums, adding a unique lofi and dreamy quality to recordings.
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Setup and maintenance

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Regular maintenance such as re-oiling the motor and cleaning tape heads is crucial for optimal performance. A new UK plug might be necessary for older units.
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One user successfully restored a non-working IC400 by resoldering two internal connections, showcasing the potential for DIY repairs.
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Mods and upgrades

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A wet-out output mod enhances its use as an outboard effects unit, offering more creative possibilities.
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User experience

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Some owners prefer the slight high-end signal loss from worn tape loops, appreciating the added character and uniqueness.
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Owners highlight the short lifespan of the tape loops as a minor inconvenience, requiring frequent replacements for optimal performance.
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Owners report that the IC400 is more durable and reliable for gigging compared to tube models, which are more prone to feedback and less suitable for live use.
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Comparisons

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Users note that digital emulations like the GSi VariSpeed plugin can achieve about 95% of the original Copicat sound, but the analog unpredictability remains unmatched.
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Solid state Copicats are noted to compete well against the Roland RE-201 Space Echo, offering similar quality with less maintenance at a lower cost.
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The IC400 is described as having a lofi, crunchy character in its repeats, contrasting with the RE-201's warm and lush sound, leading some to desire both for their unique qualities.
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Value and pricing

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Fully serviced units are available around £175, though some users prefer spending £250 to £350 for models with varispeed control, like the IC400.
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Features and functionality

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The IC400 model is favored for its varispeed control, enhancing the delay's versatility and user control.
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The IC400 model is praised for its sophisticated MICR font and IC components, offering a more refined sound compared to earlier models.
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The echo tone control on the IC400 may not offer drastic changes, with some owners recommending keeping it on a darker setting for subtle tonal shifts.
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Critic Reviews

Here's How the Watkins Copicat Tape Delay Helped Define the Sound of an Era | GuitarPlayer

guitarplayer.com

The WEM Watkins Copicat is hailed as a groundbreaking piece of gear that shaped the sound of the '60s. This tape delay was the first of its kind and became a staple for British guitarists, offering the sought-after slap-back and echo effects popularized by American rockers. Its success was immediate, with the first 100 units selling out in a day, marking the Copicat as a must-have. However, while it enjoyed widespread acclaim, the review does not delve into any potential drawbacks or modern alternatives, suggesting a nostalgic rather than critical perspective. Overall, the sentiment is positive, celebrating the Copicat's historical impact and enduring legacy.

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

mkn_upa

1171

almost 7 years ago

My main Echo

I use it on all my recording and live gigs... I plug everything in and go to my loopers... and then my amps cool stuff for a one man band gig...

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Keyboardist

Genres:

Rock Alternative rock Indie rock

From Gear Setup

jimmarchi1

41029

7 years ago almost 7 years ago

I miss my copycat, what a great piece

mkn_upa

1171

7 years ago almost 7 years ago

One of the things i'll never sell...

dukeuke

3378

over 10 years ago

Amazing tone, but with obvious age related flaws

This box has genuinely one of the most crisp, and genuine analog delay tones I've ever heard. It may be basic, and noisy, but those are all part of the fact that it was made fifty years ago. The footswitch also adds a practical element.

jimmarchi1

41029

10 years ago almost 10 years ago

you have a copycat? which version? tube or solid state?

dukeuke

3378

10 years ago almost 10 years ago

Solid state Jim, unfortunately, still good though

richard_nhoebra

over 8 years ago

Character

A Super Noisy Machine that I fall in love every time I switch it on, even if a vintage tape it brings that kind of color that was just missing before.