RE-201 echo patterns with RE-150 JFet preamps? Upgraded with an extra playback head and an RE-101 selector. More info below.
We’re tape and disc echo specialists with many years’ experience working with and restoring these machines. Our team of engineers headed by BBC-trained Doctor Huw bring our tape delays up to (or better than) factory spec, and our testing ensures machines that have superb reliability and – most important – that they sound incredible.Guaranteed to give reliable service and sound superb.
We’ve serviced and supplied machines for many artists and bands including Hannah Peel, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Arctic Monkeys,Hainbach andSunn O))).
Description
Modified Roland RE-150 Space Echo for sale.
“RE-201 Mod”? What?
Simpler than the 201/301/501 machines, the 150 usually has two replay heads, switchable between single or repeat echoes, however we discovered that we can add an extra head, plus an RE-101 selector, and upgrade the machine to have the same echo options as a 201.
This is the result, and now you have those truly wonderful RE-150 JFET preamps with the same echoo options as a 201. Happy days…
In addition to the mod this machine has been given our “standard” full overhaul which, in addition to the basic service, recapping and set up, includes:
One of our pinch rollers (more info to come about these, but essentially it’s an original pinch roller with a new bearing and new rubber, time consuming to produce, but only the best will give the best long term performance).
Heads re-lapped to bring performance to better-than Roland factory spec – they are now more even and run at low head gain (so you have the maximum amount of headroom available).
Refurbished/rebuilt motor as needed.
Switchable voltage transformer added.
Every echo we sell is also tested by a musician (test equipment: their ears!) before shipping. Every one supplied with 12 months warranty and ongoing service support.
Note that we may have machines in a range of conditions (and prices) coming through – check our other listings or get in touch if this unit here isn’t the right one for you.
REPLACEMENT TAPES: Fitting any tapes other than those from us or Echo Fix will invalidate the warranty on our machines. We have sourced unused and dry-stored tape stock which is as close to original RT-1L tape formulation as possible (without conclusive confirmation from Roland themselves we cannot describe it as being an exact match) for their original RT-1L replacement loops and limited stocks of our replacement loops are available now. We’ve written a bit about our journeys in tape, which replacement loops to use in your Roland echo, not to mention the misinformation and poor quality tapes that seem to fill the internet. We may also have a very limited supply of sealed original NOS RT1-L tapes – see our store or get in touch.
There are currently no operational issues with this machine, but please be aware that these units require looking after and that regular use and maintenance are key to keeping this in good working order.
Condition
Excellent inside and out with only minimal scratching and signs of wear. Please see photos or get in touch if you require more information on condition.
Voltage Information
Switchable voltage - 110/220v - will be set up ready for you to use before we ship.
Tax
For sales in UK the price will include 20% VAT. Buyers elsewhere may incur VAT or other local taxes on import.
Simpler than the 201 and later models, the RE-150 has three replay heads switchable between single or repeat echoes (head spacings are different to the 201), and of course varispeed for accurate tempo-matching. Self-oscillation and dub-tastic effects are easily-coaxed from this machine.
The preamps are unique among the Space Echoes and have a distinctive sound when driven. Great with everything, but can often be particularly good with beats and percussive sounds.
Visit our in-depth Roland tape echo information pages now for everything you need to know about these machines.
(Spoiler: Yes, but...)
We often get asked if Roland Space and Chorus Echoes are reliable: a perfectly reasonable question, given that they're 30 to 40 (or more) years old.
Some of the nuggets of wisdom we've picked up as we've overhauled, tested & sold hundreds of tape echoes, as well as using them in our studio for many years, not to mention swapping tips with top musicians and producers around world.
All tape is not equal. Many (most?) tapes available online do not perform well in Roland echoes... Based on our experience working on hundreds of tape echoes and trying many tapes, this is the answer to the question: Which is the best tape loop for my Roland (or Korg!) tape echo?
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"Yes, sure, you can find a Space Echo on eBay, but you won’t find one like this — that’s certain. I am so pleased with my decision to buy from Soundgas, and suggest you stop your search now and just send them a message. You will undoubtedly find yourself writing an ecstatic review about yours in short time."
Ben Evolo
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Rhett Daily
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“The Space Echo made its way to me - it looks and sounds beyond dreams, thanks guys for your great service and communication.”
Julius Bonson
Just wanted to say thank you so much for your pinch roller and echo tape. I've had a space echo for years, been sent to a shop in NYC and it never worked quite right. After installing the roller and tape, my echo works like a dream. Really incredible expertise you all have! Thank you.
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Dupille Luc
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I have been buying vintage stuff for a long time from resellers/stores/techs. I've never been so surprised and pleased after opening! Just received a Roland RE-201 and VX55 mixer, they look and sound amazing! Thanks to Tony/Declan for the service and the Soundgas team will be back!
We can't stop here, this is bat country! Our next auction (November 22nd) features some head-turning, show-stopping synths, however we also wanted to put the spotlight...
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