Echolocator

The Erica Synths Echolocator is a distinctive stereo delay effects unit that brings the dark, characterful sound of bucket-brigade device (BBD) technology into the modern studio. Developed in collaboration with the Latvian experimental techno act Echolocator, this desktop unit is designed not for pristine, transparent echoes, but for rich, textured, and deeply atmospheric delay effects that can morph and evolve in captivating ways. It excels at creating everything from classic dub-style echoes and swirling, psychedelic feedback loops to ghostly ambiences and complex, rhythmic patterns. The Echolocator is an instrument in its own right, inviting hands-on manipulation and rewarding experimentation with its unique and inspiring sonic personality.

At its core, the Echolocator features two independent BBD-based delay lines, one for the left channel and one for the right. These delay lines can be used in stereo, in series, or in ping-pong mode for a wide variety of spatial effects. The delay time is manually controllable with a large, satisfying knob and can also be modulated by the internal LFO, which features eight different waveforms for creating everything from subtle wow-and-flutter to wild, pitch-bending chaos. A tap tempo function and external clock synchronization ensure that your delays can be perfectly locked to the rhythm of your tracks. A standout feature is the unique 'Locator' function, which allows you to store a snapshot of the delay buffer and then seamlessly morph between the live delay and the frozen snapshot, creating stunning glitch and stutter effects. The unit also includes a powerful analog multi-mode filter (low-pass, band-pass, high-pass) in the feedback path for detailed timbral shaping of the echoes, as well as a tube-based overdrive circuit for adding authentic analog grit and saturation. With its all-analog signal path and intuitive, performance-oriented controls, the Echolocator is a formidable tool for sound design and live performance.

Features

• Stereo BBD-based analog delay unit.
• Two independent delay lines with stereo, series, and ping-pong modes.
• Dark, characterful sound ideal for atmospheric and dub-style echoes.
• Internal LFO with 8 waveforms for modulating delay time.
• Tap tempo and external clock synchronization.
• Unique 'Locator' function for freezing and morphing the delay buffer.
• Analog multi-mode filter (LP/BP/HP) in the feedback path.
• Tube overdrive circuit for authentic analog saturation.
• Developed in collaboration with the band Echolocator.