A tape echo pedal is a type of effects pedal for electric guitar that emulates the sound of vintage tape echo machines. Tape echo was a popular effect in the 1950s and 1960s, used extensively in early rock and roll and rockabilly music, and has remained a popular effect to this day.

The tape echo pedal works by simulating the process of recording a guitar signal onto a loop of tape, then playing it back after a short delay. As the tape loop repeats, it naturally degrades, creating a distinctive and warm echo effect. The tape echo pedal emulates this process by processing the guitar signal with a combination of delay, feedback, and filtering.

Tape echo pedals typically allow the user to adjust the delay time, feedback amount, and volume of the echoes. Some models may also feature a “wow and flutter” control, which simulates the subtle pitch fluctuations that occur in vintage tape machines. The sound of a tape echo pedal can range from subtle and warm to intense and distorted, depending on the settings used.

There are several popular tape echo pedal models on the market, including the Strymon Volante, the Strymon El Capistan and the Electro-Harmonix Attack Decay. While tape echo pedals are commonly used in rockabilly, surf rock, and other vintage-inspired genres, they can also add a unique and characterful sound to a wide range of musical styles.