Tape Echo: Analog Tape Delay Plugin by IK Multimedia

Tape Echo models the signal path of a tape machine, where a record head prints audio onto 1/4-inch tape and a playback head placed after it reads the signal back. The distance between the two heads sets the delay time in the original design. IK Multimedia says it models the imperfections of moderate-headroom Class A electronics and magnetic tape and places them under user control.

Controls cover tape hiss, tape wear, wow and flutter, and AC line hum, with a selectable US or EU voltage setting for the hum. At moderate settings the plugin works as a standard analog delay. Pushed further, wow and flutter, preamp gain and tape wear turn it into an aggressive effects generator.

The delay times can sync to the project BPM, and the stereo operation provides two independent delay lines, so each side of the stereo field can run its own timing. Full automation is supported for live control of delay parameters over a track.

Tape Echo is well suited to vocals, where tempo-synced delays can produce warm, lush echoes. It is also a fit for surf-style guitar, where the tape-style slap delay gives a clean guitar part a recognizable character. Delay trails are described as natural and organic, sitting in a mix to add depth without standing out from the other elements.