The perspectives of guitarists regarding delay units can be categorized into two main camps: analog and digital. Analog delay is often associated with terms like “warm, rich, and organic,” while digital delay tends to be described as “precise and clean.” Nevertheless, there is an early classic in the digital domain that has set a benchmark for captivating and musical delay tones, reigning supreme for four decades.
This classic unit has achieved a unique blend of precision and character, creating a third realm that flawlessly captures the best qualities of both analog and digital. This distinct realm, aptly named “Vintage Digital,” combines the benefits of digital technology and analog charm, resulting in the finest form of delay effect available. The Vintage Digital realm represents a harmonious fusion of the two worlds, offering a sound that is both precise and rich in character.
Back in 1983, Roland had already earned a reputation as a trailblazer in the realm of effects, synthesizers, drum machines, and processing equipment. During this time, they introduced the Roland SDE-3000 Digital Delay, which quickly became the benchmark for rack-mounted digital delay units in professional recording studios. Its exceptional performance and sound quality garnered the attention of renowned guitarists, who couldn’t resist incorporating one, or even several, into their stage setups.
As word spread and a multitude of influential musicians began recording and performing with the SDE-3000, its popularity soared. It became the go-to choice for countless artists, both in live performances and studio sessions. The distinctive sound produced by the SDE-3000 became the stuff of legends, solidifying its status as an iconic piece of equipment in the music industry.
Boss have released a new guitar pedal/effects processor that pays homage to the original Roland SDE-3000 digital delay that so many people loved back when it was originally released in 1983. Named the Boss SDE03000D, with the D relating to DUAL, as this pedal is essentially two SDE-3000 digital delays in a single pedal, to provide expansive stereo effects.
In addition to the Boss SDE-3000D, Roland/Boss had been working closely with Eddie Van Halen prior to his untimely death, to reproduce his classic setup which was two Roland SDE-3000 delays, one each for left and right, with the unaltered signal going to the centre…across three amplifiers for a huge stage sound.
EVH and BOSS have joined forces to introduce the remarkable Boss SDE-3000EVH Dual Digital Delay, a faithful reproduction of the stereo delays that lie at the core of Eddie Van Halen’s monumental three-cabinet live stage guitar sound. Drawing inspiration from the vintage Roland SDE-3000 rackmount delay, this powerhouse processor combines the functionality of two fully equipped SDE-3000 units within a single floor-based pedal. It also offers comprehensive connectivity options, enabling you to construct a wet/dry/wet rig similar to Eddie’s own setup.
Immerse yourself in the world of Eddie Van Halen’s expansive spatial delay tone with the inclusion of eight meticulously crafted presets. Curated by EVH himself, these presets replicate the exact settings from his personal delay units. Now, you have the incredible opportunity to experience the master’s captivating soundscapes and recreate his iconic spatial delay tone in your own musical setup. The SDE-3000EVH Dual Digital Delay combines the finest elements of craftsmanship and technology to transport you into the realm of Eddie Van Halen’s legendary guitar sound.
