AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Delay / Echo Pedals Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Boss DD-500 Digital Delay ($435). Electro Harmonix Memory Boy gives you the most for the money at $123. Eventide H9 Max Harmonizer Effects Processor leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 145 models across 54 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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
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 ↗
All 145 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-8 Digital DelayBoss60Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 12
Boss DM-2W Waza Craft Delay PedalDM-2W Delay · Boss59Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 13
Keeley Caverns Reverb / Delay V2Caverns Delay Reverb V2 · Keeley58↓ 9.2%$234€208$234€208Check ↗
- 14
Electro Harmonix Attack Decay Tape Reverse Sim.Electro Harmonix57↓ 7.8%$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 15
Electro Harmonix Grand CanyonElectro Harmonix57↓ 2.8%$272€242$272€242Check ↗
- 16
Strymon Volante Magnetic Echo MachineVolante · Strymon57Stable$458€407$458€407Check ↗
- 17
TC Electronic Echobrain Analog Delay PedalEchobrain Analog Delay · tc electronic56Stable$38€34$38€34Check ↗
- 18
Electro Harmonix Memory ToyElectro Harmonix56Stable$102€91$102€91Check ↗
- 19
Boss SDE-3 Dual Digital DelaySDE-3 Delay · Boss56Stable$158€140$158€140Check ↗
- 20
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 ↗
- 23
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 ↗
- 26
Keeley Halo Andy Timmons Signature Dual EchoHALO Andy Timmons Dual Echo · Keeley55Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 27
Keeley Halo Andy Timmons Signature Dual EchoHalo Core - Andy Timmons Echo · Keeley55Stable$438€389$438€389Check ↗
- 28
Boss TE-2 Tera EchoBoss54Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 29
Boss DM-101 Delay MachineBoss54Stable$424€377$424€377Check ↗
- 30
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 DelayWalrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
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Walrus Audio Fundamental DelayFundamental Lo-Fi-Delay · Walrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
- 35
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 ↗
- 39
EarthQuaker Devices Silos Multi-Generational Time Reflection DeviceSilos Time Reflection · EarthQuaker Devices51Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 40
Dunlop EP103 Echoplex DelayEchoplex Delay · Dunlop51Stable$276€245$276€245Check ↗
- 41
Catalinbread EchorecCatalinbread51Stable$294€261$294€261Check ↗
- 42
Keeley RK2000 Funk Siren DelayKeeley50↓ 3.9%$421€374$421€374Check ↗
- 43
Keeley Magnetic Echo DelayKeeley49Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 44
NuX NDR-5 Verdugo Series Atlantic Delay/ReverbAtlantic Delay & Reverb · Nux48↓ 5.4%$137€122$137€122Check ↗
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Keeley Memphis Sun Lo-Fi Reverb, Echo and Double TrackerMemphis Sun Echo & Reverb · Keeley48Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 46
EarthQuaker Devices / Death By Audio Time Shadows II Subharmonic…Time Shadows II Multi-Delay · EarthQuaker Devices48Stable$314€279$314€279Check ↗
- 47
Mooer ReEcho Delay PedalReecho · Mooer47Stable$78€69$78€69Check ↗
- 48
Eventide MicroPitch Delay PedalMicroPitch Delay · Eventide47↓ 0.8%$267€237$267€237Check ↗
- 49
Walrus Audio Lore Stereo Reverse Soundscape Generator MKIILore MKII Green · Walrus Audio · 2 finishes47Stable$415€369$415€369Check ↗
- 50
Source Audio SA263 Collider Delay + ReverbSA 263 Collider Delay+ Reverb · Source Audio47Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
Delay/Echo Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 152 models we track, not a sample.
Median $224 — half of all delay/echo pedals here cost less.
median of 8 models · 0.3 kg–1.5 kg
How to choose the best delay/echo pedals
Analog vs. Digital
Analog delays offer that warm, slightly degraded, almost tape-like quality, but usually have shorter delay times and less modulation options. Digital is clean, precise, and can do anything from pristine repeats to glitchy textures, but can sometimes sound sterile if not handled well.
Delay Time Range & Tap Tempo
A wider range is nice, obviously, but tap tempo is absolutely crucial for gigging - keeps your repeats locked in with the band's tempo without mental math.
Modulation Options
Chorus, flanger, vibrato, and filtering on your repeats can add a ton of character. Subtle modulation can fatten up a clean tone; extreme modulation can create psychedelic soundscapes. The quality of these mods is key - cheap modulation can sound thin and weak.
Build Quality & Controls
Gigging isn't kind to gear. Sturdy enclosures, reliable footswitches, and knobs that don't get loose are worth paying a little extra for. Easy-to-use controls are essential when you're changing sounds mid-song.
Dynamic Response & Clarity
Does the delay sound clear and articulate, or does it muddy up your signal? A good delay shouldn't suck the life out of your tone - it should enhance it. Listen for how the delay reacts to your playing dynamics.
Buying guide
So, you need a delay pedal but your wallet's screaming? I get it. Delay is essential - it's not just an effect, it's glue. We're focusing on pedals under $1000 that actually deliver usable tones, whether you're chasing subtle slapback for clean passages, drenched stadium reverb, or something in between. Let's find you something that doesn't sound like a digital ice pick.
At this budget, you're making trade-offs. Analog delays will have shorter delay times and potentially less flexibility than digital ones. Budget digital delays might have slightly harsh high-end response - listen carefully for that.
Don't chase features you won't use; a simple, well-voiced delay is better than a complex one you can't dial in. Prioritize tap tempo and a good dynamic response - those are the things that will make a difference on stage.
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 152 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 a 'tape echo' and a 'digital delay'?
Tape echoes simulate the sound of vintage tape machines - they have a warmer, more organic tone with natural imperfections like wow and flutter. Digital delays are clean and precise, offering longer delay times and more features, but can sometimes sound sterile.
Can I use a delay pedal with a bass guitar?
Absolutely! Just be mindful of low-end frequencies. Some cheaper digital delays can get muddy with bass, so look for one with a filter or tone controls to shape the repeats.
Is a 'hybrid' delay pedal worth it?
Hybrid pedals try to combine the best of both worlds - the warmth of analog with the flexibility of digital. They're often more expensive, but can be a good option if you want a versatile delay with a more organic tone.
I'm on a tight budget, what's the most important feature?
Tap tempo. Seriously. It's a game-changer for gigging and keeps your repeats in sync with the band. Don't skimp on that.
My delay sounds really harsh - what can I do?
Try rolling back the level or adding a filter on the delay pedal. Also, experiment with different amp settings - a darker amp tone can soften the edge of the repeats.
