AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Delay / Echo Pedals for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is MXR M309 Joshua Ambient Echo ($270). Electro Harmonix Canyon Delay & Looper gives you the most for the money at $146. 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.
-
- 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 ↗ -
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 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 Boy is a fantastic throwback, delivering those rich, warm analog delay tones that are hard to find these days. It’s a great choice for guitarists seeking that vintage vibe, especially for rock, blues, or anything needing a touch of modulated echo. While not a modern, super-versatile delay, it nails its classic aesthetic.
Pros
- Warm, analog delay tones evoke classic 70s echo units
- Triangle/square wave modulation offers unique chorus/vibrato textures
- Tap tempo provides rhythmic delay control for live performance
Cons
- Shortest delay times can feel a bit muddy and indistinct
- Build quality feels a little plasticky compared to higher-end units
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$191 now$191€170 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 DD-3T is a solid, no-frills digital delay – a modern re-release of a classic. It’s a fantastic option for players seeking a dependable, straightforward delay with tap tempo, especially those who appreciate the clean, almost sterile character of early digital delay. This is a workhorse pedal for gigging musicians needing a reliable and affordable delay.
Pros
- Robust Boss build quality; feels like it’ll survive a tour.
- Tap tempo functionality adds rhythmic precision and flexibility.
- Direct Out provides convenient recording and live routing options.
Cons
- Limited delay modes compared to modern, multi-effect units.
- The original DD-3’s slightly sterile tone is present in this version.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$160 now$160€142 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The DD-8 is a powerhouse in a compact Boss package. It’s got a ton of delay types, a looper, and a really solid build – perfect for gigging musicians or serious home recordists who want a wide range of delay sounds at your fingertips. It’s a significant upgrade from earlier Boss delays.
Pros
- Versatile delay modes cover a huge range of sonic textures.
- The looper is genuinely useful for practice and songwriting.
- Boss’s renowned build quality ensures years of reliable use.
Cons
- The interface can feel a little overwhelming initially with so many options.
- Some of the more esoteric delay modes aren't as immediately inspiring.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The DM-2W is a fantastic choice for players seeking a classic, warm analog delay. It's a faithful recreation of a sought-after vintage Boss pedal, perfect for adding subtle depth or creating rhythmic echoes in genres like rock, blues, and indie – especially if you appreciate the character of older delay circuits.
Pros
- Waza Craft circuitry delivers a warm, responsive analog delay tone
- Custom Mode offers extensive delay time manipulation for creative textures
- Robust Boss build quality ensures years of reliable performance on stage
Cons
- Limited delay time compared to modern digital delays, restricting longer repeats
- Standard Mode's short delay times are best suited for subtle effects
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$213 now$213€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Keeley Caverns Reverb / Delay V2
Caverns Delay Reverb V2 · Keeley
91 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Keeley Caverns V2 is a seriously impressive dual-effect pedal. It’s a fantastic option for guitarists and bassists looking to add lush reverb and characterful delay without the complexity of a full-blown multi-effects unit – especially if you enjoy swirling, modulated sounds. The build quality is solid, and the layout is user-friendly, making it a great value for the money.
Pros
- Versatile shimmer reverb adds ethereal textures to any signal
- Deep delay modulation creates swirling, psychedelic soundscapes
- Robust aluminum enclosure feels exceptionally durable for gigging
Cons
- Reverb 'warmth' control can occasionally muddy the low-end at higher settings
- Limited delay time range may not satisfy players needing extreme repeats
58AudioFu
Index↓ 9.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$258 · Aug 17$234 now$234€208 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
Electro Harmonix Grand CanyonElectro Harmonix57↓ 2.8%$272€242$272€242Check ↗
- 12
Boss SDE-3 Dual Digital DelaySDE-3 Delay · Boss56Stable$158€140$158€140Check ↗
- 13
MXR M299 Carbon Copy Mini Analog DelayM299 Copy Mini Analog Delay · MXR56Stable$186€165$186€165Check ↗
- 14
Electro Harmonix Nano Deluxe Memory ManElectro Harmonix56Stable$208€185$208€185Check ↗
- 15
Electro Harmonix Attack Decay Tape Reverse Sim.Electro Harmonix57↓ 7.8%$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 16
MXR M292 Carbon Copy Deluxe Analog DelayM 292 Carbon Copy Deluxe · MXR55Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 17
Strymon Brig dBucket DelayBrig Delay · Strymon55Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 18
Boss TE-2 Tera EchoBoss54Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 19
Boss DD-200 Digital DelayBoss53↑ 3.7%$287€255$287€255Check ↗
- 20
Way Huge WM71 Smalls Aqua Puss Analog Delay MkIIISmalls Aqua-Puss · Way Huge51↓ 8.6%$214€190$214€190Check ↗
- 21
Eventide UltraTap PedalUltraTap · Eventide51Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 22
EarthQuaker Devices Silos Multi-Generational Time Reflection DeviceSilos Time Reflection · EarthQuaker Devices51Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 23
Dunlop EP103 Echoplex DelayEchoplex Delay · Dunlop51Stable$276€245$276€245Check ↗
- 24
Catalinbread EchorecCatalinbread51Stable$294€261$294€261Check ↗
- 25
Electro Harmonix Pico Rerun Tape DelayElectro Harmonix52Stable$131€116$131€116Check ↗
- 26
Keeley Magnetic Echo DelayKeeley49Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 27
NuX NDR-5 Verdugo Series Atlantic Delay/ReverbAtlantic Delay & Reverb · Nux48↓ 5.4%$137€122$137€122Check ↗
- 28
Keeley Memphis Sun Lo-Fi Reverb, Echo and Double TrackerMemphis Sun Echo & Reverb · Keeley48Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 29
Eventide MicroPitch Delay PedalMicroPitch Delay · Eventide47↓ 0.8%$267€237$267€237Check ↗
- 30
Walrus Audio Fundamental DelayFundamental Lo-Fi-Delay · Walrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
- 31
Walrus Audio Fundamental DelayWalrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
- 32
Universal Audio UAFX Orion Tape EchoUniversal Audio45Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 33
Death By Audio Micro Dream DelayMicro Dream · Death by Audio44Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 34
Danelectro Back Talk Reverse Delay ReissueBack Talk Reverse Delay · Danelectro42Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 35
Electro Harmonix Memory ToyElectro Harmonix56Stable$102€91$102€91Check ↗
- 36
JHS Pedals Flight Delay WhiteJHS Pedals · 2 finishes39↓ 3.9%$275€244$275€244Check ↗
- 37
TC Electronic Flashback 2 Delay and LooperFlashback 2 Delay · tc electronic45Stable$118€105$118€105Check ↗
- 38
TC Electronic 2290 P Dynamic Digital Delay2290 P Dynamic Delay Pedal · tc electronic36Stable$223€198$223€198Check ↗
- 39
Mooer Ocean Machine II Devin Townsend Signature Reverb / DelayOcean Machine II Delay/ Reverb · Mooer36Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 40
Boss RE-2 Space Echo Delay/ReverbBoss35Stable$222€197$222€197Check ↗
- 41
tc electronic Flashback 2 X4 Delaytc electronic34Stable$186€165$186€165Check ↗
- 42
MXR M299 Carbon Copy Mini Analog DelayMini Delay Bundle PS L · MXR34Stable$204€181$204€181Check ↗
- 43
JHS Pedals Milkman Delay BoostJHS Pedals34Stable$209€186$209€186Check ↗
- 44
Catalinbread Belle Epoch BOSCatalinbread34↓ 4.2%$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 45
Red Panda RD-1 Pitch DelayRed Panda34Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 46
Fender Bassman DelayFender42Stable$116€103$116€103Check ↗
- 47
Mooer Reecho Pro Digital Delay PedalMooer33Stable$141€125$141€125Check ↗
- 48
Electro Harmonix Slap-Back EchoElectro Harmonix55Stable$82€73$82€73Check ↗
- 49
TC Electronic Flashback X4 Delay and Looper PedalFlashback Delay Bundle PS G · tc electronic · 2 finishes32Stable$137€122$137€122Check ↗
- 50
T-Rex Replica Stereo TAP DelayT-Rex32Stable$276€245$276€245Check ↗
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
Ease of Use
As an intermediate player, you want to use the pedal, not spend all your time reading the manual. Clear controls, logical layout, and a reasonable learning curve are essential. No one wants to be fumbling with modulation rates during a quiet verse.
Delay Time Range
A wider range allows for everything from subtle slapback to sprawling, psychedelic soundscapes. Limited range can feel restrictive, especially as you start experimenting.
Delay Type/Character
Are you after pristine digital clarity, warm analog emulation, or something in between? Different delay types impart different tonal characteristics, and knowing what you want is key.
Modulation Options
Subtle modulation (chorus, vibrato) can add a lot of movement and character to your delays. Too much, though, and it becomes a muddy mess. Find a pedal that lets you dial it in tastefully.
Tap Tempo
This is almost a non-negotiable at this level. Syncing your delays to the tempo of the song is crucial for tight, professional-sounding repeats - way better than guessing.
Buying guide
So you're past the basic distortion and chorus, huh? Time to start layering some depth and space with delay. As an intermediate player, you're probably craving more sonic flexibility than a simple tape echo offers, but you're not ready to dive headfirst into the labyrinth of complex, multi-tap machines. This list is about finding that sweet spot: pedals that inspire creativity without inducing a full-on panic attack when you're staring at the controls mid-set.
Don't chase the bells and whistles. A lot of pedals will throw a million knobs at you, but that doesn't mean they're good. Focus on a pedal with a clear purpose and controls you understand.
Cheaper pedals often use lower-quality components, resulting in a muddier low-end or a noisy signal - something that'll kill you in a band setting. Spend a bit more for a pedal with decent headroom and a clean, articulate repeats.
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 analog and digital delay?
Analog emulates the warmth and imperfections of vintage tape or bucket brigade delays. Digital is cleaner, more precise, and offers a wider range of delay times, but can sometimes sound sterile. Many pedals now blend both.
I'm playing bass, can I use these pedals?
Absolutely! Just be mindful of low-end muddiness. Look for delays with a clean, defined tone and a good amount of headroom to handle the low-end thump without getting lost.
What does 'modulation' do to a delay?
Modulation adds a subtle, swirling effect to the repeats, like a slow chorus or vibrato. It can add character and movement, but too much can sound cheesy or drown out the original signal.
Tap tempo - do I really need it?
Seriously, yes. It's the easiest way to keep your delays locked in with the song. Trying to eyeball delay times is a recipe for disaster, especially when playing with other people.
My delay sounds muddy - what's going on?
It could be several things: too much low-end in the delay repeats, too much modulation, or a noisy signal. Try filtering the low end with an EQ pedal or reducing the amount of modulation.
