EF X3 Erase Head Mod Deep Dive

[@darkpoem9]

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[@nealwho]

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[@MrCowfood]

Couple of questions: this mod is a dial. So does that mean it “partially erases” if the knob isn’t all the way to the off position? And secondly, if after recording in the erase off position, for the exact length of the tape loop, if you then turn down the input volume, will the loop preserve for longer as the input volume (guitar/line volume) has been zeroed out? Ps: I’ve emailed support about buying this mod. I think you can install it easily. There is a link to purchase $183. I’ll see if this is the case and update here.

[@nealwho]

Those are good questions. The mod dial does partially erase, but it's not linear, so it starts erasing towards the top 90%. I haven't tested turning the input volume down after recording. Unfortunately, I'm not able to test that for a couple of months.

[@MrCowfood]

Thanks for replying. By the way, it appears that you can not buy the upgrade and install it easily. Soldering is involved.

[@nealwho]

I found that turning down the input volume does not preserve the loop longer when just the Erase Head Mod is off. What I did find is you need the Record Head Off mod as well. Turning off the Record Head allows the tape to loop continuously at the same volume, as it stops writing to the tape. While the tape is looping, and the record head is off, you can still send sound in through the reverb, and chorus. I didn't know this previously, as I only had the Erase Head Off mod. I recently upgraded and now have both the Erase Head Off Mod and the Record Head Off mod. If you search for EF-X3 EF-X2 Erase + Record Head Off MOD, you'll see a link to the Echo Fix site. The cost of the mods includes installation. I don't think you're allowed to install it yourself.

[@nealwho]

BTW, I did a follow up video titled, "EF X3 Erase/Record Mod Deep Dive Part II" that covers the Erase Head mod and Record Head mod.