Empress Effects Echosystem

The Echosystem is a stereo dual-engine delay processor designed by Empress Effects as a platform for shaping delay sounds from classic emulations through custom algorithms with no prior analog equivalent. Two independent delay engines can run simultaneously in any configuration – serial, parallel, or split across stereo channels (left/right). The library covers 36+ algorithms across 12 mode types (Digital, Tape, Analog, Multi, Mod, Filter, Ambient, Delay+Reverb, Reverse, Stutter, Lo-Fi, Whisky). The Analog Dry Path with VCA blending is identical to the one in the Empress Reverb – the dry signal never passes through the ADC/DAC stage. An output transformer on Output 2 eliminates ground loops in stereo configurations. 35 preset slots. Universal Control Port. Power: 9 V DC, 300 mA.

Dual Engine and three routing modes – what they enable in practice

Parallel mode runs two delay algorithms independently, blending their wet signals at the output – two different reverbs or Tape and Ambient delays simultaneously, each with its own engine controls. Serial mode passes the signal through the first engine and routes its output into the second – effects cascade and interact, producing complex, evolving textures impossible to achieve with a single algorithm. Left/right mode routes two algorithms to separate stereo channels: Engine A to the left, Engine B to the right – delivering a wide spatial image when running into two amplifiers or a stereo system. An additional option: in mono configuration one input/output pair can serve as an effects loop between the two engines, inserting external processors into the middle of the delay chain.

Algorithms, presets and external integration

Digital, Tape, and Analog modes each include multiple variants (bright/dark, with or without saturation). Multi provides multi-tap delay with an adjustable rhythmic pattern. Mod adds modulation to the delay line. Filter applies filtering to repeats. Ambient and Delay+Reverb combine delay with spatial processing. Reverse, Stutter, and Lo-Fi are creative effect algorithms. Whisky is an experimental mode with pitch shifting and delay line distortion. Firmware updates via microSD add new algorithms (V30 card required). Universal Control Port (TS 6.3 mm) handles expression pedal, external tap switch, CV (0–5 V), external audio input, and MIDI. A cab simulator (three variants) extends use to studio recording and ampless setups. Dry path frequency response: 10 Hz – 50 kHz. Dry dynamic range: 106.9 dBA. Dry THD: 0.09%.

KEY FEATURES

• Stereo dual-engine delay, 36+ algorithms across 12 mode types
• Routing: serial / parallel / left-right (two algorithms simultaneously)
• Analog Dry Path with VCA blending – dry signal never through ADC/DAC
• Transformer-isolated Output 2 – ground loop elimination in stereo setup
• Universal Control Port: expression pedal / CV / tap switch / audio in / MIDI
• 35 preset slots
• True bypass or buffered bypass – selectable
• Input pad: 0 / 6 / 12 dB
• Cab simulator: 3 variants
• Firmware updates and presets via microSD (V30 card required)
• Infinite hold (sustain)

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: stereo dual-engine delay, stompbox
• Algorithms: 36+ (12 mode types with multiple variants)
• Modes: Digital, Tape, Analog, Multi, Mod, Filter, Ambient, Delay+Reverb, Reverse, Stutter, Lo-Fi, Whisky
• Engine routing: serial / parallel / left-right
• Dry path: analog (Analog Dry Path)
• Dynamic range (dry): 106.9 dBA
• Dynamic range (wet): 105.5 dBA
• THD (dry): 0.09%
• THD (wet): 0.22%
• Input impedance: 1 MΩ
• Output impedance: 100 Ω (Output 1) / 600 Ω (Output 2, transformer-isolated)
• Frequency response (dry, –3 dB): 10 Hz – 50 kHz
• Frequency response (wet, –3 dB): 10 Hz – 23.4 kHz
• Input headroom (wet, no pad): +0.5 dBu
• Input headroom (wet, 12 dB pad): +10.8 dBu
• Output headroom: +16.2 dBu
• Input pad: 0 / 6 / 12 dB
• Presets: 35
• Control Port: TS 6.3 mm (CV / MIDI / expression / tap / audio in)
• Bypass: true or buffered (selectable)
• Power: 9 V DC, centre-negative, 2.1 mm, 300 mA
• Dimensions: 145 × 95 × 57 mm (including controls)
• Weight: approx. 680 g