Binson | Echorec 2

When Binson Echorec echo units were first introduced in the late 1950′s, effects technology was limited to studio effects, tape delays, plate and room reverbs and tube compression. The advantages of the Echorec over other proprietary echo machines of the day were sound quality (wide frequency response), quietness, and stability (very low ‘wow’ and ‘flutter’).

The Echorec was considered to be the top of the range echo. The founder of Binson, Dr Bonfiglio Bini and principal engineer, Mr Scarano Gaetano undertook a research effort to develop a signal delay storage medium that was superior to plastic magnetic tape. The result was a unique device, utilising a specially designed steel/alloy disc or drum, which carried a durable flat metal magnetic band. T

he drum was driven by an A.C. motor via a rubber idler wheel (similar to a Garrard 401 turntable). Record and playback heads were arranged around the edge of the drum. The stability of this transport was a significant improvement over tape with reduced wow and flutter. However, this hi-fidelity did not come cheaply, when one considers the price of a ‘Baby’ Binson in 1962 was around £140-00. Compare that with a Vox AC30 at £119-00, or a Strat for £160-00. ~Phil Taylor