3. Common Models
Modern digital delays provide a very faithful clean sound and offer many possibilities, such as PingPong Delay, Reverse Echo, Hold function, TapTempo, and more detailed below. After the initial excitement in the 80s about the razor-sharp reproduction of the original sound, it was quickly realized that this quality could sound rather unnatural and cold, prompting a return to the old tape echoes and even the rather dull analog delays; both, when set up correctly, deliver wonderfully warm and natural sounding delay sounds.
In the past, tape echoes were used (high noise, low reliability), the tape was expensive consumable material - but it had the characteristic sound described above. For those who love the sound of old tape echoes, there are also modern effects that offer this version (e.g., Line6 Delay Modeler, Ibanez Dl 5, Hughes & Kettner Replex, etc.).
Now, onto the third group, which was somewhat forgotten for a while but is now enjoying increasing popularity: the analog delays of the early 80s. More reliable and easier to maintain than tape echoes, these pedals provided a frequency-restricted but distinctive warm sound that is in high demand today and is offered in pedal form by various companies.
Ping Pong Delay:
With multiple repetitions, the first one appears on the left, the next on the right, the third back on the left, and so on - just like in Ping Pong.
MultiTap:
This involves a combination of several delays with different delay times that, when timed correctly, can create interesting rhythmic patterns; heard in David Gilmour (Pink Floyd), Andy Summers (Police), The Edge (U2).
Reverse Echo:
As the name suggests: an effect where the repetitions are heard backwards. Sounds trippy. In the past, this effect was created with complicated tape manipulations, but today many digital pedals have this option onboard.
Hold:
The repetitions can be frozen and continue at full volume until someone pulls the plug. Nice for breaks or song endings.
Tap Tempo:
The ability to adjust the delay time to the tempo of the song by tapping your foot. If you don't have a programmable delay, this is a very practical solution.
Tape (Echo or Delay):
This refers to the digital simulation of the old, sometimes tube-driven tape echoes. So, the term is found on many digital pedals today.
