Boss RE-2 Space Echo

A couple months ago, we got to dig deep and investigate the Boss RE-202 Space Echo, a wonderful delay and reverb based in the classic Roland RE-201 Space Echo Tape Delay / Reverb units from decades ago…and it was awesome. Today, we’re journeying into that field once more, only this time, in a much smaller package. The Boss RE-2 Space Echo gives you all the basic sonic elements you need from those vintage units, just without all of the bells and whistles its big brother is able to brag about. The sounds are still on point, they’re just housed in a familiar, more pedalboard-friendly way…

Backed by intensive R&D and our latest innovations, the RE-2 delivers the coveted magic of the RE-201 in a pedalboard-friendly footprint—realized in flawless detail by the company that designed the original. Here, you get that classic multi-head tape echo sound, with expanded delay time, the original three-head configuration and 11 different sound combinations to choose from. The reverb is that same vintage spring sound from the RE-201, with modern stereo operation, for a bigger, bolder tone.

Use the Wow and Flutter controls to introduce varying levels of natural tape modulation, and access Tap Tempo and Twist functionality via external footswitches or an expression pedal. Everything that influences the sound here has been recreated with all-new algorithms, including the tape path, record/playback mechanism, motor variations, preamp coloration, spring reverb character, and more. You can even choose between the warm and fat RE-201 preamp tone or a clean signal, with zero processing.

The RE-2 squeezes the complete sonic character of the RE-201 into the classic Boss compact pedal format. The 11-position mode selector lets you dial in different virtual tape heads with or without spring reverb, and you can balance the echo/reverb blend with independent level knobs. Every behavior is accurately replicated, such as the gradual pitch change that occurs with Repeat Rate tweaks and the runaway feedback that happens when maxing the Intensity knob. And with the expressive Wow & Flutter control, you can conjure all the natural modulation characteristics that are essential to the Space Echo sound.

The RE-2 and RE-202 Space Echo units are simply incredible reproductions of one of the most famous delay units in existence, just slimmed down and with more modern amenities – who doesn’t love that? Always known for pushing the envelope, Boss has done it once again, and with 2 pedals that a lot of us have been hoping would appear for years and years. Be sure to check out our review and demo for the RE-202…as soon as you get done with the demo for this RE-2 Space Echo, and let us know in the comments here or on YouTube which one is your favorite, and why…?? Cheers, and thanks to all at Boss!!

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