The EQ-201 PREAMP is a unique pedal that perfectly recreates the preamp circuit of the RE-201 Space Echo and reconfigures it for a modern sound. It was developed by the King of Gear (tKoG), a Radiohead gear database site. Use it as a constant-on preamp to add striking coloration to your tone, like Thom and Jonny. It can also be used as an EQ, tone shaper, or, with increased gain, as an alternative drive unit with transistor growl. Pair it with other distortion devices to create a melancholic, emotional atmosphere. This versatile gain device not only unlocks the secrets of the Radiohead sound, but can also be used in a variety of situations. A versatile preamp/EQ/drive that recreates the iconic tone. Go to the listening page (external site). Features: The EQ-201 PREAMP is a unique pedal that perfectly recreates the preamp circuit of the RE-201 Space Echo and reconfigures it for a modern sound. Developed by Radiohead's gear database site, "the King of Gear (tKoG)," this amplifier can be used as a preamp, always on, to add striking color to your tone, much like Thom and Jonny. It can also be used as an EQ, tone shaper, or, with increased gain, as an alternative drive unit, creating a roaring, transistor-driven sound. Paired with other distortion devices, it creates a melancholic, emotional atmosphere. It's a versatile gain device that can be used in a variety of situations, not just to unlock the secrets of the Radiohead sound. A perfect reproduction of the RE-201 preamp! The original RE-201 Space Echo was designed so that all signals were boosted and filtered by the preamp at the input stage to ensure sufficient signal level for recording to tape. Even when the tape motor was stopped and the echo effect was canceled, the preamp remained active, imparting a unique coloration to the sound passing through the RE-201. This unique texture, unmatched by other tape echoes or RE Series preamps, has captivated countless alternative musicians throughout the ages. The EQ-201 PREAMP faithfully recreates the niche yet sought-after transistor preamp sound of the RE-201 Space Echo using analog circuitry. The slightly rolled-off high and low frequencies create a pleasant resonance that finds its perfect home in an ensemble. Its weighty, powerful presence is unlike any other tape echo preamp reproduction pedal, and its subtle grit stirs emotions. This is the device for those seeking unique and distinctive textures. The EQ-201 PREAMP is a versatile gain device that meticulously recreates the RE-201 preamp sound while adding more modern features. The same Baxandall 2-band EQ as the RE-201 allows it to be used as an EQ unit to add musical beauty. An extended gain range. Access everything from tone shaping and dirty boost to drive, transistor-shrieking distortion, and primitive console-style fuzz.
・Powered by 9V/18V. Internally converted to 8V/17V for true-to-original sound.
・True bypass/buffered bypass selectable via internal DIP switch. RE-201 x Radiohead? The RE-201 Space Echo is said to have first appeared in Radiohead's gear history during the recording sessions for The Bends. Jonny Greenwood, enthralled by its sound on the keyboard parts of Planet Telex, acquired an original vintage RE-201. Its unique, ethereal, and uncertain feel can be heard on tracks like "Airbag," "Subterranean Homesick Alien," "Exit Music (For a Film)," and "In Limbo." The original unit apparently subsequently broke down, and the RE-20 has been used more frequently since 2009. Jonny and Thom often play through the RE-201 (or RE-20) during recording sessions, even when not using the echo effect, suggesting that the preamp's coloring of the sound is crucial. It also features frequently in live performances, even in recent years, demonstrating its special place in shaping Radiohead's sound. The design and knobs are faithful to the original, with a 9V-18V DC 2.1mm center negative input. Current draw: approximately 15mA. Switchable between true bypass and buffered bypass. The pedalboard-friendly top-mounted input/output jacks may produce a noticeable pop noise when switching on or off immediately after powering on. The circuit stabilizes after 1-2 minutes, and the noise becomes less noticeable. ■ Product Code: 4573633580493