These are brilliant echo units with loads of character, the cheaper El-Capistan d Tape Echo may be a closer choice for people interested in the Hank type echo, but it is still only going to be an approximation to those who who are seeking precise echo patterns, it doesn't have the number of simulated heads, nor between head timings.
I have had an El-Capistan for several months now, the character is such that I can't resist the urge to swop in and out with my MagicStomp, features like wow and flutter and tone are all there, it even has tape age, bias, crinkle, spring reverb and low end contour!
http://www.strymon.net/products/elcapistan/With the El-Capistn it is only possible to program one pre-set with an add on pedal, some will undoubtedly find this limiting, but for general studio/recording use it is a very good unit.
I agree with Dave, from the sound files that I have heard the the eTap2hw seems the way to go. I'm in the process of having a technically able friend build one of these built for me, but I will still keep the El-Capistan at present.
Gary