The SDE-1000, the SDE-3000, and now, Roland have done it again!

Delay machines are probably the most widely used signal processing effect, and Roland manufacture the most widely used delay lines. The newest Roland digital delay is the SDE-2500, and it keeps up the pioneering tradition.

The SDE-2500 is MIDI equipped. This means that a delay programme from flanging and Chorus to doubling and repeat echo can be assigned to the patch programme on a MIDI synthesizer. When that particular patch is selected, the delay effect will automatically be selected with it — complete remote control from the synthesizer itself.

To make the most of this facility, of course, you need plenty of programmable memories. The SDE-2500 has 64 programmable memories which store information on delay time, feedback, and modulation. The programmes can be selected by remote footswitch as well as by MIDI, and remote jacks are also provided for Delay On/Off, Hold On/Off, Playmate, and Modulation CVIn.

The new unit provides delays up to 750 milliseconds with a bandwidth of 10 Hz to 17kHz in the frequently used 0-375ms range. This frequency response is, of course, well beyond the range of normal ears and thus matches the most exacting audio specifications. A 15-bit analogue/digital/analogue converter produces exceptionally faithful signals (12 bit processors are more common), and the circuitry has an excellent signal-to-noise ratio (84dB on the delayed signal, 93dB direct).

The SDE-2500 will meet the highest requirements of recording work and, of course with 64 instant-access programmes you couldn't have a better product for live concerts.