| Electrix Repeater Loop-based recorder. List: $749
by Brett Ratner
January 25, 2001
In certain circles, the Electrix Repeater loop-based recorder is the most anticipated product of the winter NAMM show. Actually, this was a highly anticipated item at Summer NAMM, but a few hangups with the software has caused a delay (no pun intended) in its release to the public.
But who can blame them? Loopers, regardless of brand, are notorious for glitches and the folks at Electrix want to get it right. If they do, the Repeater could be the ultimate tool for the aspiring David Torn’s and Phil Keaggy’s of the world.
“We’ve addressed the needs of players,” Electrix spokesperson Jamie Drouin said. “Quickly making loops that work live.”
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Artist's rendering of the front and rear panels
(Click for a close-up) |
It would be impossible to neatly and concisely recite everything this box can do, so here’s a high level description for ya:
Essentially, the Repeater has four channels with which to record loops on. But since you can overdub multiple parts onto a single track, you have exponentially more than four “virtual tracks.” Once a loop is recorded, you can alter the pitch of a track (without affecting tempo), alter tempo (without affecting pitch) or even play the track in reverse.
You can assign individual tracks to the effects insert. The repeater also can recognize a beat to automatically calculate a tempo (great for syncing the Repeater to other MIDI gear). You can bounce and “slip” tracks as well.
The unit records uncompressed, 16 bit, 44.1 kHz WAV files, is Macintosh and PC compatible, features digital and analog outputs, foot or keyboard control, a phono preamp (for sampling old disco albums), and can be configured to provide an individual output for each track.
What really sets the Repeater apart is the ability to archive your work. In addition to 8 meg of internal memory, the Repeater can save loops on flashcards. The unit’s standard flashcard is 16 meg, but 256 meg versions are available, allowing you to store an hour’s worth of loops.
Trying the unit out, a friend of ours (who happens to be an expert looper) deftly described the Repeater as “some assembly required.” In other words, you might have to curl up with the users manual for a minute or two. But even a few minutes of fiddling around demonstrated that the Repeater is capable of mind-blowing sonic brutality.
Drouin said Electrix hopes the Repeater will hit stores this spring. Once available, it’s likely people will deem the unit worth the wait. For more information, visit www.electrixpro.com. | 
