CE-1 Chorus Ensemble
The 1976 original that invented chorus - warm BBD modulation heard on countless records.
The CE-1 is where chorus begins. Released in 1976, it was the first standalone chorus effect ever produced, derived from the chorus circuit in Roland's JC-120 Jazz Chorus amplifier. That amp's shimmering clean tone captivated players, and the CE-1 let them add it to any rig.
A pair of MN3002 bucket-brigade delay chips creates the modulated signal, split into stereo outputs for spatial width. The Chorus mode delivers the warm, swirling shimmer that defined the effect. Vibrato mode removes the dry signal entirely for pure pitch modulation. The larger enclosure (roughly the size of a wah pedal) houses the AC power supply internally.
Intensity and Depth controls shape the modulation. The chorus sounds lush at any setting, but the vibrato mode is the hidden gem: subtle settings produce a gentle pitch wobble, while cranked settings create seasick warble that's been sampled and imitated endlessly.
The CE-1's sound was compressed into the compact CE-2 in 1979, but the original's warmer, wider character and dedicated vibrato mode keep it in demand. Vintage units command serious prices.
Used By
Reverb
Amazon
