AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Delay / Echo Pedals for Professional 2026
The top pick is Echo Fix EF-X3R Chorus Echo Black ($4,162). Strymon Timeline Delay gives you the most for the money at $523. 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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- Weight12 kg
The Echo Fix EF-X3R is a seriously impressive piece of kit for players craving that classic, lo-fi tape echo vibe with a touch of chorus and spring reverb. Its analog warmth and hands-on controls make it ideal for experimental musicians, soundtrack composers, and anyone seeking a unique sonic signature – just be prepared to baby that tape!
Pros
- Analog tape echo delivers authentic, warm, and saturated delay tones.
- FET input stage provides a clean, responsive signal with high impedance.
- Integrated chorus adds lush, swirling textures complementing the tape echo.
Cons
- Premium-priced, putting it out of reach for many players.
- Tape-based design requires occasional tape maintenance and potential replacement.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,162 now$4,162€3,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
T-Rex Binson Stereophonica Drum Delay
Binson Stereophonica · T-Rex
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight3 kg
This pedal gives you a modern take on the famous Binson Echorec with four separate playback channels. It offers deep stereo space and vintage delay up to 530 milliseconds, perfect for studio work or live gigs. The walnut finish looks great, but check the dimensions carefully before buying.
Pros
- Four independent stereo playback heads for wide spatial depth
- Studio-quality analogue delay up to 530 milliseconds
- Walnut side panels add classic look and solid feel
Cons
- Recording heads are only available in stereo mode
- No tap tempo feature listed in the specs
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,981 now$2,981€2,649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This Binson Echorec is a seriously cool piece of gear – it’s a faithful recreation of a classic, offering those swirling, warbly delays that defined a generation. It’s not a general-purpose delay; it’s for players who want that specific, vintage vibe and are willing to embrace its quirks. Perfect for anyone chasing a unique, almost tape-like echo in their sound.
Pros
- Authentic Binson Echorec character, meticulously recreated.
- Dual recording heads offer unique, evolving delay textures.
- Balanced I/O enables professional studio integration seamlessly.
Cons
- Significant weight makes pedalboard stability a consideration.
- Price point positions it as a premium-priced investment.
32AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,023 now$2,023€1,798 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This pedal sounds just like the classic Binson Echorec Model 2 T7E, the one David Gilmour uses today. It lets you save 16 presets or load 127 via MIDI, and shows a vacuum tube level on a nice OLED screen. It works whether you want true bypass or buffered mode. It is a premium-priced choice for players who want that specific vintage echo sound without guessing.
Pros
- Collaborated by David Gilmour for studio and touring use
- Accurately emulates the legendary 1960s Binson Echorec Model 2 T7E
- Uses a 1.3 inch OLED screen with a Magic Eye vacuum tube indicator
Cons
- No specific maximum delay time is listed in the description
- Power supply requirements are not stated in the provided text
30AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,406 now$1,406€1,249 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 ↗ -
This pedal gives you two different delay engines plus a reverb engine, all in one box. The new engines like Multitap and Oil Can help you build complex rhythms easily. It also has a great 5-minute looper you can reverse or slow down. Musicians who want both delay and reverb without switching pedals will love this high-end tool.
Pros
- Two separate delay engines work together perfectly
- New Oil Can, Spectral, Drum, and Multitap engines included
- High-performance 5-minute stereo looper with reverse options
Cons
- No listed maximum delay time limits in text
- Price is high compared to standard delay pedals
34AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$899 now$899€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Walrus Audio Meraki Stereo Analog Delay
Meraki Red Stereo Delay · Walrus Audio
22 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This pedal lets you set different delays for each side of your stereo mix without messing up the original sound. The built-in EQ lets you shape the tone before it hits your speakers. It is great for players who want classic echoes with a modern twist, but you will have to dial in the timing by ear since there is no tap button.
Pros
- 8x MN3005 chips create warm, rich echo textures
- Independent left and right channel time settings
- Active tilt EQ boosts bass or treble freely
Cons
- No tap tempo feature for quick time setting
- Manual waveform selection requires footswitch hunting
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$753 now$753€669 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The LVX is a serious modular delay powerhouse, offering a depth of sonic possibilities rarely found in a stompbox. It’s perfect for experimental guitarists and sound designers who crave total control and aren’t afraid of a bit of a learning curve – think ambient soundscapes, glitchy textures, and unique rhythmic effects.
Pros
- Modular architecture unlocks unparalleled sonic sculpting possibilities.
- Intuitive color display simplifies complex routing and parameter adjustments.
- Stereo looper provides instant composition and performance capture.
Cons
- Steep learning curve for mastering the modular routing system.
- Premium-priced, a significant investment for many guitarists.
30AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$787 now$787€699 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 ↗ -
The Solis Ventus is a powerhouse reverb and delay pedal, offering a level of sonic flexibility rarely found in a single unit. It’s perfect for experimental guitarists, ambient soundscapers, and anyone who needs a versatile, creative tool for live performance or studio work – just be prepared to dig in and learn its intricacies.
Pros
- Dual-engine design unlocks incredibly complex, layered textures.
- The 40-second looper is surprisingly robust and usable live.
- CV compatibility opens doors for deep integration with modular setups.
Cons
- The sheer number of options can be overwhelming for less experienced users.
- Build quality feels solid, but the enclosure is plastic, not metal.
28AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$674 now$674€599 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
EarthQuaker Devices Avalanche Run Stereo Reverb & Delay with Tap…Avalanche Run V2 · EarthQuaker Devices53Stable$517€459$517€459Check ↗
- 12
Strymon El Capistan V2Strymon56Stable$472€419$472€419Check ↗
- 13
Strymon Volante Magnetic Echo MachineVolante · Strymon57Stable$458€407$458€407Check ↗
- 14
T-Rex Replicator D´Luxe Tape EchoT-Rex47Stable$505€449$505€449Check ↗
- 15
Empress Effects EchosystemEmpress Effects28Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 16
Boss DD-500 Digital DelayBoss73Stable$435€387$435€387Check ↗
- 17
Boss SDE-3000 EVH Dual DelayBoss35Stable$502€446$502€446Check ↗
- 18
MXR M309 Joshua Ambient EchoJoshua Ambient Echo · MXR71Stable$270€240$270€240Check ↗
- 19
Walrus Audio ARP-87 Multi-Function DelayARP-87 · Walrus Audio70Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 20
Keeley Halo Andy Timmons Signature Dual EchoHALO Andy Timmons Dual Echo · Keeley55Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 21
Keeley Halo Andy Timmons Signature Dual EchoHalo Core - Andy Timmons Echo · Keeley55Stable$438€389$438€389Check ↗
- 22
Boss DM-101 Delay MachineBoss54Stable$424€377$424€377Check ↗
- 23
Strymon Deco V2Strymon54Stable$441€392$441€392Check ↗
- 24
Strymon Brig dBucket DelayBrig Delay · Strymon55Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 25
Electro Harmonix Grand CanyonElectro Harmonix57↓ 2.8%$272€242$272€242Check ↗
- 26
Eventide TimeFactor DelayTimeFactor · Eventide52↓ 1.8%$441€392$441€392Check ↗
- 27
Boss DD-200 Digital DelayBoss53↑ 3.7%$287€255$287€255Check ↗
- 28
Catalinbread EchorecCatalinbread51Stable$294€261$294€261Check ↗
- 29
Keeley RK2000 Funk Siren DelayKeeley50↓ 3.9%$421€374$421€374Check ↗
- 30
EarthQuaker Devices / Death By Audio Time Shadows II Subharmonic…Time Shadows II Multi-Delay · EarthQuaker Devices48Stable$314€279$314€279Check ↗
- 31
Walrus Audio Lore Stereo Reverse Soundscape Generator MKIILore MKII Black · Walrus Audio · 2 finishes47Stable$415€369$415€369Check ↗
- 32
Source Audio SA263 Collider Delay + ReverbSA 263 Collider Delay+ Reverb · Source Audio47Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
- 33
Dunlop EP103 Echoplex DelayEchoplex Delay · Dunlop51Stable$276€245$276€245Check ↗
- 34
Keeley Caverns Reverb / Delay V2Caverns Delay Reverb V2 · Keeley58↓ 9.2%$234€208$234€208Check ↗
- 35
Death By Audio Echo Master Vocal DelayEcho Master · Death by Audio46Stable$370€329$370€329Check ↗
- 36
Old Blood Noise Endeavors Bathing Liminal DelayOld Blood Noise Endeavors46Stable$404€359$404€359Check ↗
- 37
MXR M292 Carbon Copy Deluxe Analog DelayM 292 Carbon Copy Deluxe · MXR55Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 38
Meris PolymoonMeris45Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
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Benson Amps DelayDelay · Benson45Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 40
JAM Pedals Delay Llama mk.3Delay Llama Mk.3 Delay · JAM pedals44Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 41
Walrus Audio Fable Stereo Granular Soundscape Generator MKIIFable MKII Black · Walrus Audio44Stable$415€369$415€369Check ↗
- 42
Walrus Audio Fable Stereo Granular Soundscape Generator MKIIFable MKII Gray · Walrus Audio44Stable$415€369$415€369Check ↗
- 43
JAM Pedals Delay Llama XtremeDelay Llama XTreme · JAM pedals44Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
- 44
Boss DM-2W Waza Craft Delay PedalDM-2W Delay · Boss59Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 45
Mad Professor Deep Blue Delay HandwiredDeep Blue Delay HW · Mad Professor43Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 46
MXR M169 Carbon Copy Analog DelayMXR62Stable$194€172$194€172Check ↗
- 47
Electro Harmonix Deluxe Memory ManElectro Harmonix61↓ 9.7%$198€176$198€176Check ↗
- 48
Boss DD-8 Digital DelayBoss60Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 49
EarthQuaker Devices Silos Multi-Generational Time Reflection DeviceSilos Time Reflection · EarthQuaker Devices51Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 50
Eventide MicroPitch Delay PedalMicroPitch Delay · Eventide47↓ 0.8%$267€237$267€237Check ↗
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
Versatility
A professional delay needs to do more than one thing well. Can it nail a vintage tape echo vibe, a pristine digital delay, and something experimental in between? Limiting yourself to a single sound is a liability.
Modulation Options
Subtle chorus, flanger, or vibrato can transform a simple delay into something truly unique. It's not about cheesy modulation, but nuanced textures that add depth and movement.
Tap Tempo & Subdivision
Essential for locking in with a band. A precise tap tempo and flexible subdivisions (dotted eighths, triplets, etc.) are non-negotiable for rhythmic accuracy.
Dynamic Response & Clarity
Cheap delays often muddy up the signal, especially with higher repeats. We're looking for pedals that maintain clarity and articulation, even when pushing the repeats and feedback.
Build Quality & User Interface
This isn't a bedroom toy. A robust enclosure, reliable components, and an intuitive interface (even with complex features) are crucial for gigging and long-term reliability.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk delay. As pros, we need more than just a pretty shimmer - we need a workhorse. A delay pedal that can handle a subtle slapback for a clean Fender tone, a cavernous wash for ambient textures, or a rhythmic pulse to lock in with the drummer. Forget the dime-a-dozen units; this is about tools that inspire and perform under pressure, both onstage and in the studio.
Don't chase the latest hype. Many 'boutique' delays sound great in isolation but fall apart in a band mix - lacking headroom or adding unwanted noise. Pay attention to the analog/digital hybrid designs - they often offer the best of both worlds.
Spending a little more on a pedal with a solid build and a flexible feature set will save you headaches down the road. And learn the manual - most of these units have hidden gems.
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 (typically bucket brigade) offers a warm, slightly degraded tone, good for vintage vibes, but limited in max delay time. Digital is clean and precise, with almost limitless time, but can sound sterile without careful design. Hybrids aim to combine the best of both.
I need a delay that will cut through the mix in a loud band setting. What should I look for?
Headroom is key. Look for pedals with a clean preamp section and a high output level. Also, consider using a shorter delay time with a brighter tone - it'll be more percussive and less likely to get lost.
How important is tap tempo really?
If you're playing with other people, it's vital. Trying to manually set delay times in a live setting is a recipe for disaster. Tap tempo keeps you locked in and allows for on-the-fly adjustments.
What's the deal with 'feedback' controls?
Feedback controls the number of repeats. Too little, and the delay disappears quickly. Too much, and it descends into noisy chaos. Finding the sweet spot is crucial for creating evolving textures or rhythmic pulses.
Are there any delays that are easy to program and use live?
Strymon's Brigadier is remarkably intuitive, despite its complexity. The Chase Bliss Audio pedals have a steeper learning curve, but offer incredible flexibility once you master them. It's about finding the right balance between features and usability for your workflow.
