Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo

Roland's ultimate tape echo, in top operating condition following a full service by our tape echo specialist with various new parts as required, including new tape.

Guaranteed to give reliable service.

We're tape and disc echo specialists and always have a good selection of vintage machines. Check out our other listings for fully-serviced Binsons, Copicats, Echoplexes and Roland Space/Chorus Echoes. We guarantee that this machine will not disappoint.

It is in perfect working order and sounds fantastic: we have them calibrated to Roland factory spec, with the exception of the repeat intensity as Roland ‘improved’ them by removing the self-oscillation of the 201 and 301 - this machine now self-oscillates beautifully.

Very good condition. The face has some small marks and signs of age, including some oxidation spots in the middle. The heads and internal surfaces are very clean with some ageing on the top of the tape tray; tolex has a few very minor dings and scuffs but nothing serious. The heads are in excellent condition showing low wear. It is missing the original instructions - we will add our own repro version if required (see here.). Click on the photos to zoom in and see more shots.

• It is a 100v Japanese model and will run fine on North American mains 115/120v without a transformer (we run all our tests using 120v power); however, a step-down transformer is recommended for extended use.
• A step-down transformer is required in the UK/EU.
• We do not recommend using cheap generic Chinese mains transformers and can supply a high quality UK-made unit if required.

Roland Space and Chorus Echoes are amazing machines - if you're only going to have one tape echo, then this is the one (IMHO): the multi-head echo combinations, a good spring reverb, Roland chorus and the Sound On Sound feature all add up to a classic piece of studio gear.

This one sounds great and is in superb order: the echoes are good and clear, the chorus and spring reverb sound lush and have that evocative sound you've heard on countless records.

For sales in UK/EU the price will include VAT. VAT-free sales are possible to businesses and individuals in the EU (outside the UK) with a valid VAT Number - please get in touch if you wish to buy this way.

There are currently no operational issues with this machine, but please be aware that these units require some looking after and that regular use and maintenance are key to keeping this in good working order.

There are no crackly pots or noisy switch issues, though some crackle may develop when it’s not been used for a while - this can usually be rectified by repeated turns of the pot.