AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Delay / Echo Pedals Under $300 2026
The top pick is MXR M309 Joshua Ambient Echo ($270). Electro Harmonix Memory Boy gives you the most for the money at $123. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 95 models across 41 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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- 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 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 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 95 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 Attack Decay Tape Reverse Sim.Electro Harmonix57↓ 7.8%$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 12
Electro Harmonix Grand CanyonElectro Harmonix57↓ 2.8%$272€242$272€242Check ↗
- 13
TC Electronic Echobrain Analog Delay PedalEchobrain Analog Delay · tc electronic56Stable$38€34$38€34Check ↗
- 14
Electro Harmonix Memory ToyElectro Harmonix56Stable$102€91$102€91Check ↗
- 15
Boss SDE-3 Dual Digital DelaySDE-3 Delay · Boss56Stable$158€140$158€140Check ↗
- 16
MXR M299 Carbon Copy Mini Analog DelayM299 Copy Mini Analog Delay · MXR56Stable$186€165$186€165Check ↗
- 17
Electro Harmonix Nano Deluxe Memory ManElectro Harmonix56Stable$208€185$208€185Check ↗
- 18
Electro Harmonix Slap-Back EchoElectro Harmonix55Stable$82€73$82€73Check ↗
- 19
MXR M292 Carbon Copy Deluxe Analog DelayM 292 Carbon Copy Deluxe · MXR55Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 20
Strymon Brig dBucket DelayBrig Delay · Strymon55Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 21
Boss TE-2 Tera EchoBoss54Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 22
Boss DD-200 Digital DelayBoss53↑ 3.7%$287€255$287€255Check ↗
- 23
Walrus Audio Fundamental DelayWalrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
- 24
Walrus Audio Fundamental DelayFundamental Lo-Fi-Delay · Walrus Audio52Stable$123€109$123€109Check ↗
- 25
Electro Harmonix Pico Rerun Tape DelayElectro Harmonix52Stable$131€116$131€116Check ↗
- 26
Way Huge WM71 Smalls Aqua Puss Analog Delay MkIIISmalls Aqua-Puss · Way Huge51↓ 8.6%$214€190$214€190Check ↗
- 27
Eventide UltraTap PedalUltraTap · Eventide51Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 28
EarthQuaker Devices Silos Multi-Generational Time Reflection DeviceSilos Time Reflection · EarthQuaker Devices51Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 29
Dunlop EP103 Echoplex DelayEchoplex Delay · Dunlop51Stable$276€245$276€245Check ↗
- 30
Catalinbread EchorecCatalinbread51Stable$294€261$294€261Check ↗
- 31
Keeley Magnetic Echo DelayKeeley49Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 32
NuX NDR-5 Verdugo Series Atlantic Delay/ReverbAtlantic Delay & Reverb · Nux48↓ 5.4%$137€122$137€122Check ↗
- 33
Keeley Memphis Sun Lo-Fi Reverb, Echo and Double TrackerMemphis Sun Echo & Reverb · Keeley48Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 34
Mooer ReEcho Delay PedalReecho · Mooer47Stable$78€69$78€69Check ↗
- 35
Eventide MicroPitch Delay PedalMicroPitch Delay · Eventide47↓ 0.8%$267€237$267€237Check ↗
- 36
Harley Benton Digital DelayHarley Benton46Stable$34€30$34€30Check ↗
- 37
NuX Reissue Series Analog DelayAnalog Delay · Nux46Stable$57€51$57€51Check ↗
- 38
Mooer Echolizer Digital DelayEcholizer · Mooer45Stable$73€65$73€65Check ↗
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TC Electronic Flashback 2 Delay and LooperFlashback 2 Delay · tc electronic45Stable$118€105$118€105Check ↗
- 40
Universal Audio UAFX Orion Tape EchoUniversal Audio45Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 41
Death By Audio Micro Dream DelayMicro Dream · Death by Audio44Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 42
NuX Time Core Deluxe MKIITime Core Deluxe MKII · Nux42Stable$102€91$102€91Check ↗
- 43
Fender Bassman DelayFender42Stable$116€103$116€103Check ↗
- 44
Danelectro Back Talk Reverse Delay ReissueBack Talk Reverse Delay · Danelectro42Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 45
Mooer Echoverb Digital Delay/ReverbEchoVerb · Mooer41Stable$71€63$71€63Check ↗
- 46
TC Electronic The Prophet Digital Delay PedalThe Prophet Digital Delay · tc electronic39Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 47
JHS Pedals Flight Delay WhiteJHS Pedals · 2 finishes39↓ 3.9%$275€244$275€244Check ↗
- 48
Yuer RF-10 Series Analog DelayYuer · 2 finishes36Stable$29€26$29€26Check ↗
- 49
TC Electronic Bucket Brigade Analog DelayBucket Brigade · tc electronic36Stable$82€73$82€73Check ↗
- 50
TC Electronic 2290 P Dynamic Digital Delay2290 P Dynamic Delay Pedal · tc electronic36Stable$223€198$223€198Check ↗
Delay/Echo Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 100 models we track, not a sample.
Median $158 — half of all delay/echo pedals here cost less.
median of 5 models · 0.3 kg–0.5 kg
How to choose the best delay/echo pedals
Versatility
Does it just do one kind of delay, or can you dial in everything from subtle slapback to spacey ambient textures? A good delay should be a tool, not a gimmick.
Sound Quality
This isn't just about 'tone' - it's about clarity, sustain, and how the repeats decay. Cheap digital delays can sound brittle and harsh; analog-voiced delays might get muddy quickly. We're listening for that sweet spot.
Ease of Use
Complex menus and tiny knobs are a nightmare on stage. Ideally, you want something intuitive, even in low-light conditions. Gig-worthiness is a big factor.
Build Quality
Pedalboard abuse is a reality. We're looking for sturdy enclosures, reliable footswitches, and components that aren't going to fail after a few gigs.
Tap Tempo/Modulation
Tap tempo is almost essential these days for locking into a band's groove. Modulation (chorus, tremolo, etc.) can add a lot of character, but it's a luxury at this price point.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk delay. You want that shimmering, rhythmic echo, that U2-esque wash, or maybe just a touch of space to fatten up your tone - but you don't want to remortgage your house to get it. Finding a truly good delay pedal under $300 used to be a real challenge, but the market's gotten competitive. I've spent years chasing the perfect echo, and I've got a few solid suggestions for you.
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. You probably won't get a ton of features or the absolute cleanest, most pristine repeats. Analog-voiced delays will often have a warmer character but can lose clarity at longer delay times.
Digital delays will be more precise but might lack some of that organic feel. Pay attention to the delay time range - shorter delays are great for slapback, longer delays are for more ambient textures. Don't be afraid to look at used gear; you can often snag a higher-end pedal for a bargain.
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 100 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?
Analog delay uses actual analog circuitry to create the repeats, often resulting in a warmer, more organic tone but with limitations in clarity and time range. Digital delay converts the signal to digital, offering longer delay times and cleaner repeats but sometimes lacking the warmth of analog.
Does tap tempo really matter?
Absolutely. Syncing your delays with the band is crucial for a tight, professional sound. Trying to guess delay times by ear is a recipe for disaster, especially in live situations.
Can a budget delay sound good with a clean amp?
Yes, but you'll need to be more discerning. Cheap digital delays can sound harsh with a clean amp; look for something with a warmer, more natural tone or use a lot of reverb to soften the edges.
I play bass - can these pedals work for me?
Definitely! But pay attention to the low-end response. Some budget delays can get muddy with bass frequencies. Look for pedals that maintain clarity and articulation even with low-end thump.
Are there any pedals that offer both analog and digital modes?
Some do, but be aware that the 'analog' mode is often an attempt to emulate analog warmth, not a true analog circuit. It can be a good compromise if you want the best of both worlds, but don't expect it to be a perfect substitute.
