BOSS RE-202 Space Echo Digital Delay Pedal User Manual

Introduction

The BOSS RE-202 Space Echo Digital Delay Pedal is a modern recreation of the legendary Roland RE-201 Space Echo, first introduced in 1974. This advanced pedal faithfully delivers the authentic sound and behavior of the original, capturing its unique rhythmic echo sounds, warm character, and vibrant spring reverb. Designed by the original creators, the RE-202 extends the classic experience with new features tailored for contemporary music production and performance.

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your RE-202 pedal, ensuring you can fully explore its sonic capabilities.

Key Features

• Digital Delay Pedal with 12 Echo Combinations: Offers a wide range of classic and modern echo effects.
• Independent Stereo Reverb Section: Adds depth and spaciousness to your sound.
• Wow & Flutter Control: Recreates the authentic tape modulation characteristics of vintage units.
• Saturation Control: Emulates the magnetic tape compression and preamp coloration for rich, warm tones.
• 4 Onboard Presets: Allows for quick recall of your favorite settings.
• MIDI Control: Provides extensive control over parameters and memory selection via MIDI.
• Selectable Direct Sound Option: Choose between analog dry-through or pre-amp simulation for your direct signal.

This image highlights the BOSS RE-202's ability to reproduce the authentic Space Echo sound with 12 unique echo combinations and easy-to-use controls.

The RE-202 is shown connected in a setup, emphasizing its advanced features like Saturation control, new and aged tape simulation, and EQ options.

This view focuses on the pedal's sonic enhancements, including twice the delay time, a fourth virtual tape head, and tape head distance control.

What's In The Box

• RE-202 Unit
• AC Adaptor
• Owner's Manual (this document)
• Rubber Foot

This image displays the items included with your BOSS RE-202 pedal, ensuring you have all necessary components for initial setup.

Setup

Power Connection

Connect the included AC adaptor to the DC IN jack on the rear panel of the RE-202. Ensure the adaptor is securely plugged into a power outlet. Use only the specified BOSS AC adaptor to prevent malfunction and damage.

Audio Connections

The RE-202 features stereo input and output capabilities. Connect your instrument (e.g., guitar, keyboard) to the INPUT A/MONO and/or INPUT B jacks. For output, connect the OUTPUT A/MONO and/or OUTPUT B jacks to your amplifier, mixer, or audio interface.

• Guitar/Line Input Switch: Adjust this switch based on your instrument. Set to 'GUITAR' for guitars and 'LINE' for line-level devices like keyboards or mixers.

External Control Connections

The CTL 1, 2/EXP jack allows connection of an optional footswitch (FS-5U, FS-6, FS-7) or an expression pedal (EV-30, FV-500L/H, Roland EV-5) for expanded real-time control over various parameters.

MIDI IN/OUT ports enable control from external MIDI devices, allowing for deep integration into complex setups and automation of parameters.

This detailed diagram illustrates all inputs, outputs, and controls on the RE-202, essential for proper setup and operation.

Operating the RE-202

Front Panel Controls

• Mode Selector (Head): This rotary switch selects one of 12 echo combinations, simulating different tape head configurations of the original Space Echo.
• Bass/Treble: Adjusts the frequency range of the echo sound.
• Reverb Vol: Controls the volume of the independent spring reverb section.
• Repeat Rate: Adjusts the speed of the tape echo, from fast repeats to long, decaying echoes.
• Intensity: Controls the amount of feedback, determining how many repeats occur.
• Echo Vol: Sets the overall volume of the echo effect.
• Saturation: Adds magnetic tape compression and preamp coloration, enriching the tone.
• Wow & Flutter: Introduces wavering and pitch instability, characteristic of vintage tape echoes.
• New/Aged Tape Switch: Selects between a pristine "New" tape sound or a more degraded, characterful "Aged" tape simulation.

Footswitch Functions

• ON/OFF (WARP): Toggles the effect on/off. Hold down to activate the "WARP" function, which creates a runaway feedback effect.
• MEMORY (REVERB): Cycles through the 4 onboard memory presets. Hold down to engage or disengage the independent reverb.
• TAP (TWIST): Taps in the desired repeat rate. Hold down to activate the "TWIST" function, which creates a dramatic pitch-shifting and feedback swirl.

Saving and Recalling Memories

The RE-202 allows you to save up to four of your favorite settings as memories. To save a setting, select the desired memory bank (1-4) using the MEMORY button, adjust your parameters, then press and hold the WRITE button (located above the MEMORY LEDs) until the LEDs flash, indicating the setting has been saved. To recall a memory, simply press the MEMORY button to cycle to the desired bank.

Maintenance

The BOSS RE-202 is designed for durability and reliability. Unlike its tape-based predecessor, it does not require regular tape replacement or mechanical maintenance. To ensure optimal performance and longevity:

• Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Storage: Store the pedal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity.
• Power Off: Always turn off the power before connecting or disconnecting cables.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official BOSS website or contact your local BOSS distributor. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Official BOSS Store: Visit the BOSS Store on Amazon