Released in 1987, the SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo was a dedicated analogue echo processor in the Rockman Rockmodule range. Designed as a stereo rather than conventional mono echo system, the SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo used analogue circuitry and provided separate echoes across its two output channels, with delay times extending to 500 milliseconds.
The SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo was specifically promoted as an alternative to digital echo processors. SR&D stated that the processor did not use inexpensive digital processing chips, instead employing analogue circuitry throughout the echo section. This placed the SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo firmly within the analogue signal-processing approach used throughout much of the Rockman range.
A defining feature of the SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo was its treatment of the two stereo channels. Rather than simply presenting the same delayed signal at both outputs, separate echoes could bounce between the left and right channels. This created a stereo echo effect from either a mono or stereo input source.
The SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo provided echo times of up to 500 milliseconds, allowing effects substantially longer than the short doubling and ambience treatments associated with simpler delay processors. Feedback could be used to create repeating echoes, while the front-panel controls provided direct access to the delay and output-mixing functions.
The output section offered three different preset stereo mixes. These could be used with either stereo or mono systems, extending the usefulness of the SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo beyond installations equipped for full stereo operation. The input could likewise accept either mono or stereo material.
The SR&D Rockman Stereo Echo was also part of the Rockman sound used by Boston. The processor was specifically identified by SR&D as the Stereo Echo heard on Boston’s Third Stage album.
Features
- Analogue stereo echo processing
- Separate echoes across the left and right channels
- Echo times of up to 500 milliseconds
- Mono or stereo input operation
- Three preset stereo output mixes
- Compatible with stereo or mono output systems
- Adjustable feedback
- Independent left and right echo volume controls
- Direct line driver configuration
- Used for the Stereo Echo heard on Boston’s Third Stage album