Reverb & Delay Pedals

Reverb & Delay Pedals- together often referred to as ‘time-based effects’ - are an essential part of any pedalboard. Most guitarists have their own specific preference on what kind of delay and reverb pedal they like and how effects on their sound should fit within a song. From ambient tones, to subtle enhancements to full on U2 style rhythmic patterns, reverb sounds and delays can offer a lot of tonal variety to your guitar sound. In fact delays are also behind other effects like chorus and flanger and can be used to create unique tones that aren't your usual delay or echo. Some digital delay pedals also host a huge range of features like tap tempo, stereo operation and the ability to operate with an expression pedal giving the user peak expressive control and audio quality, without having to stop playing to make adjustments. Whether you're using reverb pedals, analog delay pedals or digital delay pedals, they each offer incredible value for money thanks to their versatility and inviting character.

Reverb, at its simplest, is the sound of a room. This ambience was replicated in the 40s and 50s with springs and large sheets of metal known as ‘plates’. Many reverb pedals aim to model these classic studio sounds as well as more natural ‘room’ or ‘hall’ sounds. However, thanks to the sophistication of digital pedals these days, there is now a vast range of otherworldly spaces your guitar can inhabit. All guitar reverb pedals are digital (apart from rare units which have real springs in them). This means it is very common to find a range of different reverb sounds in one pedal.

Delay pedals create echoes or ‘repeats’. This was originally a studio effect using tape machines which is why so many guitar delay pedals are described as ‘tape delays’. But now, like reverb pedals, digital delay effects can create an awe-inspiring range of textures and soundscapes. Delay pedals can either be analog - such as the Electro Harmonix Memory Man, as used by U2’s The Edge and Radiohead’s Ed O’Brien - or digital - such as modern classics like the Strymon Timeline.

Why Should I Choose a Reverb or Delay Pedal?

• Versatile and fun!
• Can be used to achieve a large sound
• Evocative, atmospheric effects
• Classic studio sounds to colossal ambient soundscapes
• Add extra dimension to your tone