AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Delay / Echo Pedals for Blues 2026
The top pick is Boss DD-500 Digital Delay ($435). Electro Harmonix Memory Boy gives you the most for the money at $123. Echo Fix EF-X3 Chorus Echo Silver leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 149 models across 55 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight1 kg
The DD-500 is a powerhouse of a delay pedal. It’s packed with features and sounds incredible, offering a huge range of creative possibilities, especially for players needing complex, studio-quality delays in a live setting. This is an ideal tool for producers, studio musicians, and experienced players who demand flexibility and pristine sound.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and dynamic range thanks to 32-bit processing
- Versatile delay modes cover a huge sonic spectrum, from tape to shimmer
- The phrase looper is surprisingly robust and genuinely usable live
Cons
- The sheer number of options can feel overwhelming for beginners
- Power consumption is noticeable when running on batteries
73AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$435 now$435€387 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight0.49 kg
The Joshua Ambient Echo is a fantastic tool for creating lush, evolving soundscapes. It's a bit of a specialist – if you're chasing dreamy, textured delays and aren't needing pristine repeats, this is a serious contender for post-rock, ambient, and experimental guitarists.
Pros
- Exceptional ambient textures with its modulated delay algorithms.
- Intuitive controls offer precise rhythmic and tempo manipulation.
- Stereo capabilities create expansive, immersive soundscapes.
Cons
- Limited clean delay tones; excels in ambient, less so in pristine repeats.
- Can be complex for beginners; learning curve to master all features.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$270 now$270€240 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Walrus Audio ARP-87 Multi-Function Delay
ARP-87 · Walrus Audio
99 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.36 kg
The ARP-87 is a seriously fun and versatile delay pedal. It’s a great option for players who want a range of delay tones without the complexity of a full-blown multi-effect. I'd recommend this to guitarists and bassists looking for a creative delay solution that doesn't break the bank.
Pros
- Versatile delay types cover everything from pristine to lo-fi textures
- Excellent Damps control shapes delay decay realistically
- Intuitive Ratio knob adds unique character and filtering
Cons
- Lack of battery power limits portability considerably
- Modulation depth can feel a bit subtle for some users
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$224 now$224€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Eventide H9 Max Harmonizer Effects Processor
H9 Harmonizer Gen 2 · Eventide
134 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight0.6 kg
This pedal gives guitarists and bassists access to over a thousand presets and advanced vocal tools. It works great on stage or in the studio with its flexible inputs. You'll need the extra Mixing Link pedal for the best vocal effects.
Pros
- Accesses over 1,000 factory presets from previous models
- Uses SIFT technology for high-quality polyphonic pitch
- Includes the full Harmonizer+ Suite for vocals
Cons
- Harmonizer+ Suite requires a separate Mixing Link pedal
- No USB-C power input mentioned in the text
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$781 now$781€694 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight15 kg
The EF-X3 is a seriously impressive piece of kit, a meticulous recreation of classic tape delay workflows with the added warmth of analog chorus and spring reverb. It’s built like a tank and sounds incredible, perfect for producers and experimental guitarists seeking a unique, character-rich delay solution – just be prepared to dedicate some space for it!
Pros
- Analog BBD chorus delivers lush, vintage-inspired modulation tones.
- Spring reverb convincingly emulates classic amp reverb circuits.
- Robust construction with quality components suggests lasting durability.
Cons
- The substantial weight (15kg) makes it impractical for gigging without a dedicated rack.
- High-end price point restricts accessibility for many players.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,150 now$3,150€2,799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Carbon Copy is a fantastic choice for guitarists and bassists seeking that warm, vintage analog delay vibe. It's incredibly easy to use, sounds great for subtle thickening or more pronounced repeats, and feels rock-solid—a true workhorse pedal for anyone wanting that classic delay sound without a ton of complexity.
Pros
- Warm, saturated analog tone delivers classic delay character
- Robust metal enclosure and footswitch inspire confidence
- Simple, intuitive controls allow for quick tweaking and dialing-in
Cons
- Limited delay time compared to digital or hybrid delays
- No tap tempo feature restricts rhythmic precision
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$194 now$194€172 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Memory Boy delivers that iconic, warm, slightly-muddy analog delay that's perfect for adding character to rock, indie, and even ambient textures. It's a straightforward, no-frills delay that nails a specific vibe—ideal for players wanting that classic '80s echo without a ton of complexity.
Pros
- Warm, saturated analog delay tones evoke classic '80s sounds
- Versatile modulation options (vibrato, chorus) add unique character
- Expression pedal input expands creative possibilities for live performance
Cons
- Limited maximum delay time compared to modern digital delays
- Tone shaping options are basic; lacks extensive EQ controls
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$123 now$123€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Canyon is a clever little pedal – a great entry point to EHX’s sound. It's ideal for guitarists or bassists wanting a compact, versatile delay and looper without the complexity of a full-blown studio setup. The looper's simplicity makes it a real asset for practicing and creating quick song sketches.
Pros
- Versatile delay modes offer everything from tape echo warmth to digital precision.
- Looper functionality is surprisingly robust for the price point, great for practice.
- Compact size makes it pedalboard-friendly, a definite plus for smaller rigs.
Cons
- 3-second delay time limits longer, ambient textures; a bit short for some users.
- Hidden parameters require digging into the manual, a slight learning curve.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$146 now$146€130 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Deluxe Memory Man is a fantastic choice for players seeking that warm, vintage delay vibe with a touch of modulation. It's a real character pedal – perfect for adding depth and movement to your sound, especially if you’re chasing those old-school echo tones. It’s not a workhorse for pristine, long delays, but excels at what it does.
Pros
- Warm, analog repeats evoke classic tape echo character.
- Unique modulation creates swirling, ethereal textures easily.
- True bypass preserves your signal integrity when disengaged.
Cons
- 550ms max delay is relatively short compared to modern digital options.
- The modulation controls can be a bit sensitive, requiring careful tweaking.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 9.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$219 · Aug 17$198 now$198€176 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Strymon Timeline is a powerhouse delay pedal – a true studio-in-a-box. It's perfect for guitarists and bassists seeking incredibly detailed and creative delay textures, especially those involved in ambient, post-rock, or experimental music. Be prepared to invest some time to learn it, but the payoff is massive sonic possibilities.
Pros
- Unmatched delay algorithms, from tape echoes to shimmer.
- Intuitive interface despite the complexity; easy to dial in sounds.
- Excellent build quality with robust footswitches and sturdy enclosure.
Cons
- Significant size and weight make it less than ideal for smaller pedalboards.
- Steep learning curve to fully exploit the expansive feature set.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$523 now$523€465 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 149 delay / echo pedals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Boss DD-3T Digital DelayBoss60Stable$160€142$160€142Check ↗
- 12
Boss DD-8 Digital DelayBoss60Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 13
Boss DM-2W Waza Craft Delay PedalDM-2W Delay · Boss59Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 14
Keeley Caverns Reverb / Delay V2Caverns Delay Reverb V2 · Keeley58↓ 9.2%$234€208$234€208Check ↗
- 15
Electro Harmonix Attack Decay Tape Reverse Sim.Electro Harmonix57↓ 7.8%$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 16
Electro Harmonix Grand CanyonElectro Harmonix57↓ 2.8%$272€242$272€242Check ↗
- 17
Strymon Volante Magnetic Echo MachineVolante · Strymon57Stable$458€407$458€407Check ↗
- 18
TC Electronic Echobrain Analog Delay PedalEchobrain Analog Delay · tc electronic56Stable$38€34$38€34Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Memory ToyElectro Harmonix56Stable$102€91$102€91Check ↗
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Boss SDE-3 Dual Digital DelaySDE-3 Delay · Boss56Stable$158€140$158€140Check ↗
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MXR M299 Carbon Copy Mini Analog DelayM299 Copy Mini Analog Delay · MXR56Stable$186€165$186€165Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Nano Deluxe Memory ManElectro Harmonix56Stable$208€185$208€185Check ↗
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Strymon El Capistan V2Strymon56Stable$472€419$472€419Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Slap-Back EchoElectro Harmonix55Stable$82€73$82€73Check ↗
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MXR M292 Carbon Copy Deluxe Analog DelayM 292 Carbon Copy Deluxe · MXR55Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
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Strymon Brig dBucket DelayBrig Delay · Strymon55Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
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Keeley Halo Andy Timmons Signature Dual EchoHALO Andy Timmons Dual Echo · Keeley55Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 28
Keeley Halo Andy Timmons Signature Dual EchoHalo Core - Andy Timmons Echo · Keeley55Stable$438€389$438€389Check ↗
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Boss TE-2 Tera EchoBoss54Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
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Boss DM-101 Delay MachineBoss54Stable$424€377$424€377Check ↗
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Strymon Deco V2Strymon54Stable$441€392$441€392Check ↗
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Boss DD-200 Digital DelayBoss53↑ 3.7%$287€255$287€255Check ↗
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EarthQuaker Devices Avalanche Run Stereo Reverb & Delay with Tap…Avalanche Run V2 · EarthQuaker Devices53Stable$517€459$517€459Check ↗
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Walrus Audio Fundamental DelayFundamental Lo-Fi-Delay · Walrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
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Walrus Audio Fundamental DelayWalrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
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Electro Harmonix Pico Rerun Tape DelayElectro Harmonix52Stable$131€116$131€116Check ↗
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Eventide TimeFactor DelayTimeFactor · Eventide52↓ 1.8%$441€392$441€392Check ↗
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Way Huge WM71 Smalls Aqua Puss Analog Delay MkIIISmalls Aqua-Puss · Way Huge51↓ 8.6%$214€190$214€190Check ↗
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Eventide UltraTap PedalUltraTap · Eventide51Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
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EarthQuaker Devices Silos Multi-Generational Time Reflection DeviceSilos Time Reflection · EarthQuaker Devices51Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
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Dunlop EP103 Echoplex DelayEchoplex Delay · Dunlop51Stable$276€245$276€245Check ↗
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Catalinbread EchorecCatalinbread51Stable$294€261$294€261Check ↗
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Keeley RK2000 Funk Siren DelayKeeley50↓ 3.9%$421€374$421€374Check ↗
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Keeley Magnetic Echo DelayKeeley49Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 45
NuX NDR-5 Verdugo Series Atlantic Delay/ReverbAtlantic Delay & Reverb · Nux48↓ 5.4%$137€122$137€122Check ↗
- 46
Keeley Memphis Sun Lo-Fi Reverb, Echo and Double TrackerMemphis Sun Echo & Reverb · Keeley48Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 47
EarthQuaker Devices / Death By Audio Time Shadows II Subharmonic…Time Shadows II Multi-Delay · EarthQuaker Devices48Stable$314€279$314€279Check ↗
- 48
Mooer ReEcho Delay PedalReecho · Mooer47Stable$78€69$78€69Check ↗
- 49
Eventide MicroPitch Delay PedalMicroPitch Delay · Eventide47↓ 0.8%$267€237$267€237Check ↗
- 50
Walrus Audio Lore Stereo Reverse Soundscape Generator MKIILore MKII Black · Walrus Audio · 2 finishes47Stable$415€369$415€369Check ↗
Delay/Echo Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 165 models we track, not a sample.
Median $258 — half of all delay/echo pedals here cost less.
median of 19 models · 0.3 kg–15 kg
How to choose the best delay/echo pedals
Warmth & Tone
Blues demands warmth, not ice-pick brightness. We're looking for delays that add depth without sounding sterile or digital - think tape echo saturation or a subtle analog glow. That 'fat midrange honk' on repeats is a huge plus.
Repeat Decay & Modulation
A short, decaying repeat is often key. Too much feedback gets muddy quickly, especially in a band setting. Subtle modulation (chorus, vibrato) can add that vintage tape echo wobble, but avoid anything too seasick-inducing.
Tap Tempo & Subdivision
Being able to dial in a tempo that locks in with the groove is invaluable. Subdivision options (quarter notes, dotted eighths, triplets) open up rhythmic possibilities beyond simple echoes.
Dynamic Response
A good delay shouldn't choke your signal or add unwanted coloration when you dig in with a slide. It needs to respond cleanly to your playing dynamics - quiet passages should be subtle, aggressive licks should be pronounced.
Build Quality & Reliability
Blues gigs can be brutal. A flimsy plastic enclosure or unreliable footswitch won't cut it. We want something that can take a beating and still sound good after years of use.
Buying guide
Let's be honest, a little delay can take your blues playing from 'competent' to 'soulful'. It's not about spaceship sounds; it's about adding warmth, space, and that subtle rhythmic complexity that makes a slow blues lick hang in the air just right. Finding the right delay pedal for blues isn't about chasing the longest repeats; it's about finding a voice that complements your tone and lets you evoke that classic, slightly-worn feel.
Don't fall for the longest delay times - blues is about feel, not endless echoes. Budget pedals often compromise on warmth, using harsh digital algorithms that sound sterile. Paying a bit more for analog-voiced or tape-simulating delays usually gets you a more usable tone and better dynamic response.
Consider your amp's voicing too - a bright amp needs a warmer delay, and vice versa.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 165 delay/echo pedals from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between digital and analog delay for blues?
Analog delays tend to have a warmer, more saturated tone, often emulating vintage tape echoes. Digital delays are cleaner and can offer longer delay times and more features, but can sometimes sound harsh if not carefully designed. For blues, a well-voiced digital or tape-simulating delay can work great, but a true analog delay often nails that vintage vibe.
How much delay time do I actually need for blues?
Generally, 20-300ms is a sweet spot for subtle thickening and adding depth. Anything longer than 500ms can quickly become overwhelming and muddy the mix. Experiment, but shorter is usually better.
Should I get a delay with modulation?
A little subtle modulation (chorus or vibrato) can add that classic tape echo character, but too much can be distracting. If you're unsure, start with a delay that offers modulation but allows you to dial it back completely.
My amp already has a reverb. Do I still need a delay?
Reverb and delay serve different purposes. Reverb simulates a space, while delay creates a rhythmic echo. They can complement each other beautifully, but a delay isn't strictly necessary. If your amp's reverb is weak, a delay can add a lot of depth.
What's the deal with 'tape saturation'?
Tape saturation is the warm, slightly distorted tone that comes from running audio through old tape machines. Many modern delay pedals simulate this effect, adding harmonics and a pleasing grit that cuts through a mix without being harsh - essential for blues.
