We report a broadband coherent terahertz detection system using GaP as a free-space electro-optic field sensor with a demonstrated 3 dB bandwidth of 3.6 THz, useful bandwidth of 7 THz, and a pulse width of 185 fs. These figures represent new records in the coherent detection of free-space THz radiation. Sensor response as a function of crystal thickness and copropagation velocity mismatch dispersion in the THz regime is studied. ©1997 American Institute of Physics.