TEST: Danelectro Reel Echo

 In the past.....If sentences begin with this word, probably every person who has not yet passed the age of forty will automatically lose their ability to pay attention. “Everything used to be better, everything used to be nicer, the standard used to be even higher and everything used to not be so bad.” But you could also say "I used to have more hair on my head, my belly wasn't so fat before, I didn't used to fall asleep in front of the TV and the competition wasn't so high before," depending on which side you're on.

However, what was actually different “before” (different, mind you, not necessarily better) is the signal management in music, keyword digital/analog. I would like to put forward the daring thesis that if you were born in 1989 or earlier, you no longer know the word “analog” in the field of musical signal management or are no longer consciously aware of it.

Of course, every signal that we perceive with our hearing is an analogue sound (we cannot hear a digital signal at all), but when it comes to signal processing, we have been in the digital realm for years, with very, very few exceptions.

What does this have to do with “before”? Well, have you ever asked yourself why, even in times of the most modern emulation technology, an all-tube amplifier is still praised as the measure of all things? With control technology from the Cretaceous period of electronics? And why the quality of the most modern amplifier technology is based exclusively on getting as close as possible to the sound of old devices? (Wow, sounds like a “real” amplifier). Think about it for a bit, I would be interested to know what you believe.

As part of this thinking, some suppliers also give their products a retro flair, sometimes in terms of circuitry, sometimes in terms of production or sometimes just visually. When it comes to vintage optics, the Danelectro company has been at the forefront for many years, including the Reel Echo that I have for testing.


construction

To put it bluntly, the Reel Echo is primarily an optical copy of a tape echo device. Neither the circuitry nor the production technology have any parallels to the protagonists over 40 years ago. Due to their tube design, the Copycat cars in question were not only used to generate the echo effect in question, but also often functioned as a booster in front of the amplifiers, which at the time only had a rudimentary tendency to distort.

Even Ritchie Blackmore, tired of heavy rocking and now dying as a pitiful Robin Hood in the Schallmaien and Lauten swamp, used an AKAI tape recorder in his hard rock phase, among other things with RAINBOW, to be able to play his Marshall Heads a little hotter. In the Reel Echo, on the other hand, pure digital technology works away, but is packaged in a masterful layout.

Jesses, what a color! If your wife notices a product in the recording studio just because of its color, as happened to me, that should give the product managers something to think about, both positively and negatively. The “pastel-colored mint” is on the same color level as the signature Jeff Beck Strat at the time! Jeff Beck Strat? An excellent guitar, best ingredients, best sound, best craftsmanship and the bottom of the list in terms of sales, guess why? ;-)

For the sake of honesty, I have to admit that the color kicks me. Yes, I know, “daring” is an understatement, but I still like it. Although I wouldn't have my backline painted in this color. ;-)

So you take a digital delay and give it the following control options:

Mix: the ratio between the original and effect signals
Lo-Fi: a passive treble fader that continuously reduces the treble component of the effect signal
Repeat: the number of repetitions, often referred to as “feedback” in other products.
Speed Range: The delay time in milliseconds, from 0 to 1500. The name alludes to the tape speed of the earlier devices, with the products at that time reaching a maximum of 400 ms.
Tone toggle switch: here you can choose between two presets in the effects area. “Solid State” allows the signal to pass through almost unprocessed and achieves a more neutral sound, “Tube” makes the sound sound more nasal and sharper.
Warble: Simulates the “shortcomings” of old tape echo devices such as unevenly running motors, wobbling tapes and dropouts in the magnetic coating.

The product also has two on/off switches, which can be used to activate/deactivate the effect and to activate a loop function at a delay time previously set on the device. Unfortunately, Danelectro has again installed these fiddly pressure switches, which can be misunderstood if you accidentally hit them with your shoe.

2 red LEDs inform you about the activation of the effect, the speed of the echo and the loop function. The device rests on four rubber feet that are not particularly non-slip, but they serve their purpose. The product is powered by a 9V battery or an external power supply, with 300 mA being sufficient as power supply.

The Reel Echo has one input and two outputs, whereby the two outputs are only suitable for a spatial slapback echo. To do this, turn the mix to 100% “wet” and then set the spatial offset using a suitable millisecond selection. Attention, this effect is only noticeable when you are in the “golden stereo triangle” in front of the two speakers (which both require their own amplifier).


Practice

When connected, the product does not cause any problems in terms of operation. Any musician who has ever worked with a delay will immediately feel at home with the Reel Echo. Only the two toggle switches, which are intended to ensure a moderate reminiscence of earlier eras, stand out somewhat from the standard procedure.

Their functionality is limited to two presets, which you can choose depending on your taste. However, the “Tube” circuit in question does not really create a saturation of the downstream effect, but rather creates an equalizer preset that you either prefer more or less.

The “Warble” switch also turns out to be more of a chorus effect than an emulation of the highly complex interactions of an aging vintage tape echo device. However, with a street price of less than €100, you shouldn't judge the product quite so harshly when it comes to authenticity. Ultimately, all presets sound satisfactory and practical, which shouldn't be underestimated.


Conclusion

The Reel Echo from Danelectro is a technically satisfactory, good workmanship and visually excellent digital delay, which sets itself apart from the majority of its competitors with a few small special features. However, the desired copy of an analog vintage tape echo device is only achieved in terms of appearance; in terms of sound, the Reel Echo is a regular digital delay with all the specific properties.

However, anyone who likes to add a touch of visual esprit to their mines is in good hands with the mint-colored bird of paradise. And since we are all self-promoters, this can only be an advantage ;-).

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Additional Informations:

Title: The Technical Odyssey: Unveiling the Genesis of Danelectro Guitars' Pedals

Introduction:
In the realm of musical effects pedals, few names carry as much weight and historical significance as Danelectro Guitars. Renowned for their innovation, affordability, and distinctive sound, Danelectro pedals have left an indelible mark on the world of music. This article embarks on a technical journey through the annals of time, uncovering the fascinating genesis of Danelectro's iconic pedals and highlighting their enduring legacy in the realm of musical innovation.

1. Pioneering Spirit:
The story of Danelectro pedals begins in the post-World War II era, a time marked by technological advancement and cultural transformation. Against this backdrop, Nathan Daniel, the founder of Danelectro Guitars, set out to revolutionize the world of musical effects. Drawing on his expertise in electronics and a keen understanding of musicians' needs, Daniel embarked on a quest to create pedals that would push the boundaries of sonic experimentation while remaining accessible to aspiring musicians.

2. The Birth of the Danelectro Pedal:
In the early 1960s, Danelectro introduced its first line of effects pedals, marking a watershed moment in the history of musical instrument design. Utilizing cutting-edge transistor technology and innovative circuitry, these pedals offered musicians a palette of sound previously unimaginable. From the warm, vintage overdrive of the Danelectro Overdrive pedal to the lush, swirling modulation of the Danelectro Flanger, each pedal represented a leap forward in sonic exploration.

3. Technical Innovations:
At the heart of Danelectro pedals lies a commitment to technical excellence and innovation. Unlike their predecessors, which relied on bulky vacuum tubes and cumbersome wiring, Danelectro pedals embraced solid-state transistor technology, allowing for smaller, more compact designs without sacrificing sound quality. Moreover, Danelectro pioneered the use of true-bypass switching, ensuring that the pedal's circuitry had minimal impact on the guitar's tone when disengaged, a feature that would later become standard in the industry.

4. Iconic Designs:
In addition to their technical prowess, Danelectro pedals are celebrated for their iconic designs, which reflect a unique blend of form and function. The distinctive 'coffin' shape of early Danelectro pedals not only served as a visual hallmark but also allowed for easy placement on pedalboards and tight stage setups. Furthermore, Danelectro's use of durable, high-quality materials ensured that its pedals could withstand the rigors of the road while maintaining their pristine sound.

5. Enduring Legacy:
As the years passed, Danelectro pedals continued to evolve, incorporating new features and technologies while retaining the timeless appeal that made them beloved by generations of musicians. From the fuzzy distortion of the Danelectro Fuzz to the shimmering echo of the Danelectro Delay, each pedal offered a unique sonic signature that left an indelible mark on the world of music. Moreover, Danelectro's commitment to affordability ensured that its pedals remained accessible to musicians of all backgrounds, democratizing the process of sonic experimentation and innovation.

6. Contemporary Revival:
In recent years, Danelectro has experienced a resurgence in popularity, fueled by a renewed interest in vintage gear and analog sound. The company has reintroduced classic designs from its archives, offering musicians the opportunity to experience the timeless tones of yesteryear with modern reliability and craftsmanship. Furthermore, Danelectro has expanded its lineup to include new pedals inspired by vintage classics, ensuring that its legacy of innovation and excellence continues to thrive in the digital age.

7. The Quest for Sonic Excellence:
Behind every Danelectro pedal lies a relentless pursuit of sonic excellence. From the initial concept to the final product, Danelectro's engineers and designers work tirelessly to ensure that each pedal delivers unparalleled sound quality and performance. This commitment to sonic perfection is evident in every aspect of the pedal's design, from the carefully selected components to the meticulous attention to detail in the circuitry.

8. Customization and Versatility:
One of the hallmarks of Danelectro pedals is their versatility and adaptability to a wide range of musical styles and playing techniques. Whether you're a blues guitarist searching for the perfect overdrive tone or a shoegaze musician experimenting with ambient textures, there's a Danelectro pedal to suit your needs. Moreover, many Danelectro pedals feature intuitive controls and onboard EQ options, allowing musicians to fine-tune their sound to perfection.

9. Collaboration and Innovation:
Throughout its history, Danelectro has collaborated with musicians and artists to push the boundaries of pedal design and innovation. From signature artist models to limited-edition releases, these collaborations have resulted in some of the most sought-after and collectible pedals in the industry. Moreover, Danelectro continues to invest in research and development, exploring new technologies and techniques to further enhance the sonic capabilities of its pedals.

10. The Human Touch:
While Danelectro pedals may be products of cutting-edge technology and modern manufacturing processes, they are ultimately imbued with a human touch that sets them apart. Each pedal is assembled by skilled technicians who take pride in their workmanship and attention to detail. From hand-soldered circuit boards to hand-painted enclosures, every Danelectro pedal is a labor of love, crafted with care and precision to ensure years of reliable performance.

11. Global Impact and Influence:
The impact of Danelectro pedals extends far beyond the confines of the music industry, influencing artists and musicians from all walks of life. From the gritty garage rock of the 1960s to the ambient soundscapes of the 21st century, Danelectro pedals have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Moreover, their affordability and accessibility have democratized the process of musical experimentation, empowering aspiring musicians to explore new sonic territories and push the boundaries of creativity.

12. Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration
As we reflect on the rich history and technical prowess of Danelectro pedals, one thing becomes abundantly clear: their legacy is one of innovation, inspiration, and sonic exploration. From their humble beginnings in the 1960s to their enduring popularity in the digital age, Danelectro pedals have continued to captivate and inspire musicians around the world. As we look to the future, one can only imagine the new sonic frontiers that await, guided by the timeless allure of Danelectro's iconic pedals.