SDE1000

Roland Digital delay / echo effects processor

The SDE-1000 is an easy-to-use delay/echo processor producing professional, studio-quality delay effects. Front panel facilities: Input attenuator@ -30db - 0dB range Feedback Delay output level Modulation: Rate & Depth Fluorescent display: delay in milliseconds Up / Down data toggle button 4x memory presets Time Multiplier: x1 or x2 Delay Phase: Normal / reverse Modulation: on/off Feedback: on/off Rear panel facilities: Input: " mono jack In / out level: switchable -20dBm / 35dBm Outputs: " mono jack mixed output " mono jack delay output Remote switch options: Delay: on/off Hold: on/off Playmate Preset: Shift Modulation: foot control Delay time adjuster: x1 - x1.5 Power requirements: 240V AC 50/60Hz 17W Physical: 19" 1u standard rack mount Dimensions: 482(w) x 303(d) x 44(h) mm Weight: 4.2kg

Controls With its simple and well laid-out controls, the SDE-1000 is easy to understand without ever cracking the manual. Delay length is displayed in milliseconds via the blue fluorescent display, and is set easily by holding down the +/- toggle button. The Time x2 button allows the user to quickly double the delay time (up to 1.5 seconds). The number of repeats is set with the Feedback control. When pushed past 12 o'clock, the Feedback control can allow the user to drive the signal back on itself as well, albeit not as stylishly as a tape delay--but still very useful for adding spice to a mix. The SDE-1000 also has a good sounding Modulation section with Rate and Depth controls for flanging and chorus. Also present is a button to switch the phase of the delayed signal, as well as four memory presets to store your favourite settings; just hold down to save--just like a car stereo! The Roland SDE delays were launched in 1983; among the other models were the SDE-2000, SDE-2500 and the SDE-3000 all adding or subtracting various bells and whistles. It seems the SDE1000 and the rest of the line was directed at the "pro-sumer" and live market of the day, with its unbalanced connections and low output levels. But despite this, and its early low-bit converters, the SDE-1000 still holds its own twenty years later, and is still found in many studios. It is a good sounding delay, couldn't be easier to use, is built to last, and can be found for reasonable prices on the used market.