Universal Audio UAFX Orion Tape Echo Effects Pedal Blue

UAFX 2.0 Firmware Update

Launching November 11, 2025, the UAFX 2.0 firmware update delivers a major performance upgrade to Universal Audio’s two-button pedals, unlocking deep MIDI integration, enhanced footswitch control, and streamlined app connectivity. Players can now select from four new footswitch modes—Live/Preset AB, A/Bypass + B/Bypass (Tour Mode), A/B–C/D, and Boost + Live/Preset—ideal for live “channel-switching” workflows. The update introduces 128 recallable presets via MIDI Program Change, real-time parameter control through MIDI CC messages, and MIDI beat clock sync for time-based effects including the Starlight Echo Station, Astra Modulation Machine, Galaxy ’74 Tape Echo & Reverb, and Del-Verb Ambience Companion. Bluetooth connectivity has been rebuilt from the ground up for increased reliability, while a new wired USB connection enables direct app control from iOS or Android devices. USB MIDI support further enhances expression, preset switching, and clock sync capabilities, making it easier than ever to integrate UAFX pedals into modern performance rigs. All updates are free and compatible exclusively with dual-footswitch UAFX models.

The Universal Audio UAFX Orion Tape Echo pedal brings you the sound of a legendary Maestro EP-III tape echo unit in a compact, durable stompbox. With the Orion, you can choose between pristine mint, gently worn or well-loved old tape types for sonic variation, from subtle warmth to saturated splutter. Its authentically modeled preamp adds boost and overdrive for extra grit. The Wonk control introduces warbly, modulated repeats and funky tape splice textures.

Vintage Tone From Accurate EP-III Models

The Orion contains faithful models of three distinct EP-III units: Mint, Worn and Old. Select Mint for lush, hi-fi echoes. Worn imparts gentle tape saturation and compression. Old introduces heavy tape wear, dropout and distortion for aggressive, grungy echoes. With simple controls, you can dial in the perfect amount of color and imperfection.

Shape Your Sound With Variable Preamp Gain

The EP-III's solid-state preamp is renowned for adding punch and attitude. Orion's Preamp control lets you boost your echoes and entire signal chain, from subtle lift to saturated overdrive. Push the preamp into breakup, then tame highs with the built-in tone control for a range of vintage-inspired tones to suit any playing style.

Get Weird With the Wonk Control

Orion's Wonk knob adjusts modulation intensity, taking your echoes from pristine repeats to wobbly, warped textures. At minimum, it imparts subtle pitch variations for natural-sounding modulation. As you turn up Wonk, echoes become more warped and splicey, culminating in self-oscillating madness.

Road-Tested Design

Despite its advanced algorithms, Orion is built for life on the road. It features sturdy metal housing, footswitches rated for 100,000 presses and analog signal bypass for maximum tonal integrity. Power it with a standard 9-volt adapter and Orion provides decades of dependable echo bliss on any pedalboard or studio setup.