EMT 250 (1976)
A pioneering digital reverb processor, released in 1976, known for launching the era of digital studio reverb.
Overview
The EMT 250, manufactured by German company EMT (Elektromesstechnik), is recognized as the first commercial digital reverb unit. Released in 1976, it marked a turning point in audio production, replacing mechanical reverb systems with a completely electronic design that had no moving parts. It was developed in collaboration with American electronics company Dynatron and engineered by Barry Blesser after approximately two years of research and development. Only 250 units were ever produced, contributing to its status as a rare and sought-after piece of studio history.
Specifications
| Production quantity | 250 units |
| Original price | $20,000 |
| Nominal line level | +6 dBm |
| Operating level adjustment | Adjustable via analog circuitry access |
| Integrated circuits | Approximately 500 |
| RAM | 125 K bits |
| ROM | 16 K bits |
| Operating speed | 50ns per instruction |
Design
The EMT 250 was the first practical digital reverb and featured a completely electronic design with no moving parts, making it rugged and resistant to shock and vibration. It used an all-discrete component design based on 7400 series logic ICs and was developed with Dynatron, leveraging around 500 integrated circuits to process reverb in real time.
Context
The EMT 250 changed the landscape of music production by introducing digital reverb to professional studios. It preceded later units like the EMT 251, which used the same processor core but added enhanced reflection controls. Universal Audio later released a plugin emulating the EMT 250, confirming its lasting influence.
Market
With only 250 units ever made, the EMT 250 is highly collectible. It debuted at $20,000, and forum discussions mention interest in purchasing mint-condition units for around 7,500 EUR, reflecting its enduring value and rarity.
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