In this article, we’re going to be discussing and reviewing the 6 best bass delay pedals of 2023.
Delay is one of the most essential effects in music, no matter the instrument or music style. Bass players are no exception, so it’s hard to imagine a good bass guitar sound without this effect. Therefore, it’s no wonder that the offer of these pedals on the market is huge.
Like in many other cases, delay pedals were originally designed for electric guitars. Soon after, bass players realized all the benefits of these pedals and how they can expand their sound in so many ways. The beauty of delay pedals is that, unlike some other effects, they work equally great both on guitars and bases. Even today, it is a rare thing to find a delay pedal dedicated to bass guitars. Instead, they are rather universal and designed for both instruments.
What Is A Bass Delay Pedal?
As the name suggests, this pedal creates a delay effect. A delay effect is a specific technique of audio signal processing, where the original signal gets recorded and then repeatedly played after a certain period of time. It creates an echo effect but with all the additional features of modern delay effects pedals, it can bring a whole spectrum of different sound colors.
Through decades, engineers were using different methods to create a delay effect. Of course, the original pedals featured analog circuits, while digital units were introduced in the ‘80s. Different technologies create different sounds, so we can classify the best delay pedals into several groups. Some of the most popular types of delay pedals are Tape delay, Analog delay, Digital delay etc.
Most modern pedals are digital and they usually pack a variety of delay types into a single housing. That brings extra flexibility and makes them extremely versatile. In many cases, bass players use no more than a single pedal but still have a whole arsenal of different sounds.
Bass Delay Pedals
Boss DD-8
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Boss DD pedals have been a gold standard in the business for decades and the Boss DD-8 comes as the latest and most powerful iteration of the legendary stompbox. It comes with recognizable housing, it offers the same bullet-proof housing, along with a familiar knob configuration that provides easy operation and allows you to dial great tones with ease.
Although originally designed for electric guitars, Boss DD pedals have always worked great with bass guitars and this unit is no exception. Moreover, it offers 11 modes in total, including 10 different delay types, which go from classic modes like analog, digital or tape delays, to modern things that combine this with other effects, such as reverb or reverse delay. The eleventh mode on the right knob is reserved for a 40-second looper with overdub capability, which will help you emphasize your creative side.
As we’ve just mentioned, the overall layout is typical of DD pedals. There are four knobs and besides mode selection, you can also control Level, Feedback and Time. When it comes to connectivity features, there are two inputs and three outputs, including stereo mode. You can also connect the DD-8 with the expression pedal and control on-demand tap tempo or echo-laden Twist effect, or maybe get extended looper control. The Boss DD-8 offers so many possibilities packed in the company’s recognizable housing, which is powered by a 9V DC power output, which is sold separately.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
With 11 modes and such impressive pedigree, the Boss DD-8 imposes itself as a logical choice for pretty much everyone. It is an excellent work mule but also a great choice for players who like to experiment with their tone. The amount of functionality that comes in such a compact package is simply impressive.
MXR Carbon Copy
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The MXR Carbon Copy impresses with its simple layout and ability to deliver great delay tones with ease. It is a fully analog pedal, which is something you will rarely find in today’s market at this price. It features bucket brigade technology that ensures excellent audio quality and deals with bass frequencies in an impressive way.
This pedal unit doesn’t just sound great. It also offers super-easy operation, thanks to a simple three-knob design. With these, you can mix wet and dry signals, while the Regeneration knob lets you set delay repeats. On the right side, there is the Delay knob that lets you dial a variety of colors, and the small switch on the top lets you engage the modulation effect. For additional adjustments, there are also two internal trim pots and as a result, this pedal is capable of dialing an impressive array of delay tones, which is highly convenient, considering the small number of control knobs.
The back of the pedal features a typical MXR design. It is compact, sturdy and fits any pedalboard. Of course, it runs on a 9V power supply, which is sold separately, though there is also an option to use a 9-volt battery.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
The Carbon Copy is a natural choice for all those players who appreciate simplicity but don’t want to sacrifice sound quality. This is a straightforward pedal that lets you dial amazing ambient tones with ease. Also, it is a fantastic choice if you want to save some space on your pedalboards.
TC Electronic Flashback
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The new version of TC Electronic Flashback brings a couple of notable updates, including the new crystal delay. So, the number of delay effects now goes up to eight, which is much more than you usually get from a typical delay unit of this size. Besides these delay types, there are also three empty slots where you can save your favorite settings. Finally, there is a 40-second looper.
The pedal features three more knobs, with typical controls for this effect. Those are Delay, Level and Feedback, while there is also a small switch that provides you with quarter-, eighth-, and dotted eighth-note subdivisions. The footswitch features a so-called Mesh technology, which means that it is pressure sensitive and that it works like an expression pedal, so you can control your sound in real-time.
Besides plenty of tonal possibilities, the pedal also offers lots of connectivity features. There are two inputs and outputs, so you can go stereo as well, while the USB port gives you access to the patches created by famous players. The pedal features true bypass, which means that your tone will remain intact when the pedal is disengaged.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Despite the compact size, TC Electronic Flashback 2 is one of the most versatile digital delay pedals on the market. With numerous delay modes and the ability to save patches, this pedal is a great choice for bass players who cover a wide array of styles or simply like to mix different delay tones. Additionally, the toneprint and mash footswitch features are a welcomed bonus that makes this one of the best delay pedals ever made.
JHS Pedals 3 Series Delay
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It’s always great when you have a choice of several delay types and the ability to tweak tones but sometimes, we rather go for something straightforward, something that doesn’t require playing with knobs or diving into a menu. If you are that kind of a player, you will definitely appreciate this JHS pedal.
The first thing you’ll notice is a super-simple design. This compact but sturdy pedal comes with just three knobs which are typical for delay processors. With Mix, Time and Repeats knobs, it’s super easy to dial great tones on this unit. What’s really impressive about this pedal is that, despite the simple layout, you may count on a broad range of delay sounds, thanks to the small toggle switch that is located under the Repeats knob. With this switch, you can choose between two worlds of delay – one of them is bright and chiming, while the other delivers a classic bucket brigade tone.
The pedal features compact dimensions, which is great if you need extra space on your pedalboard, while the sturdy housing promises long exploitation. When it comes to connectivity features, you will find single inputs and outputs, while the pedal runs on a 9V power supply, sold separately.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Don’t be fooled by its affordable price. This pedal offers the impressive sound quality, which makes it perfect not only if you are on a tight budget, but also if you’re simply looking for a great-sounding, straightforward pedal.
Flamma FS03 Delay Pedal
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The Flamma FS03 Delay Pedal is a pedal that brings versatility and functionality to the masses. It is one of the most versatile delay pedals around, even though it is also one of the cheapest. At the same time, it offers a compact design and relatively easy operation, thanks to a pretty smart knob configuration. The pedal comes with 6 different types of delay, including Tape, Liquid, Rainbow, Galaxy, Mod-verse, and Low-bit.
As we’ve just mentioned, the knob organization is really smart. The upper section comes with three typical controls – Mix, Time and F.B. (feedback), while the lower section offers two more knobs, Tweak 1 and Tweak 2, which have a pretty special function. The thing with these two knobs is that they control various parameters, depending on the type of delay settings you choose. For example, if you choose Tape delay, these knobs control Filter and Vibrato. On the other hand, in the Galaxy mode, for example, they control Post-slow gear and Chorus. Finally, there is a Save/Select switch, with which you choose different delay types and save your settings.
We particularly like the cool-looking mode indicator and if you look closer, you will notice seven numbers, even though there are six delay modes. The seventh is reserved for the looper, which offers an impressive 80-second time. Speaking of impressive features, you may also count on stereo inputs and outputs, which make the pedal a complete package. The unit runs on a 9V power supply, sold separately.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
Not so long ago, multi-functional delay pedals with several delay types and high-level versatility were reserved for those with a deep pocket. This affordable unit changed the game, as it offers an even higher level of functionality than most premium-priced units. If you’re looking for an affordable super-versatile delay stompbox, search no more.
Boss DD-T3
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The DD-3 is one of the most iconic guitar pedals, which has been around for more than three decades. Even today, it is the first choice of so many players, due to its excellent combination of sound quality and simplicity. The Boss DD-3T comes as an updated and upgraded version, with minor tweaks that make it even more intuitive and easier to use.
Despite the changes, the overall layout remains largely the same, especially when it comes to knobs and basic controls. There are still four knobs, with familiar responsibilities. Three of them are typical for any delay pedal, and allow you to control Level, Feedback and Time. The fourth one is a mode selector, which allows you to choose from 12.5ms to 800ms of crystal-clean digital repeats. You can notice that Hold mode has been replaced with Short Loop but don’t worry, it features the same function – capturing 800ms of sound that can continuously loop.
With a few changes, Boss made this pedal more convenient. For example, the Direct Out, which is a dry output, has a new location and now sits next to the standard output. Finally, the biggest novelty is the addition of a tap tempo function, which can be controlled either with the onboard or external footswitch.
Who Should Buy This Pedal?
The Boss DD-3T is a great choice for players who look for genuine Boss delay but don’t necessarily need the additional functionality of the DD-8 model. This pedal keeps things simple and includes essential delay modes. However, it offers plenty of connectivity options, which make it suitable for every situation.
Our Number One Choice
With so many delay modes and other amazing features, this is arguably one of the most versatile delay pedals around. Also, we are talking about a product that belongs to a family of pedals that have been evolving for decades, with unique sound and functionality, as well as unparalleled reliability and durability. With 10 delay modes, you can dial pretty much anything with this pedal, while the 40-second looper with overdub capability will make your creative sessions way more effective.
Our Premium Choice
Most of the pedals on our list are more versatile, with a wider range of delay effects and more features. On the other hand, the MXR Carbon Copy focuses on quality instead of quantity. It is a true analog delay pedal that offers the exceptional sound quality, in a combination with decent versatility. The best thing about this pedal is that it’s super-easy to dial great tone.
Buy On AmazonBest Value For Money
No other pedal offers such a combination of versatility and affordability, so it’s pretty obvious why Flamma FS03 is the best value for money on our list. It sounds pretty decent and offers impressive flexibility. Not only that there are six delay modes, but each one of them comes with additional, dedicated effects that bring tonal shaping to a whole new level. Moreover, you may also count on an impressive 80-second looper and stereo inputs and outputs.
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That concludes this full buyers guide on the best bass delay pedals. Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions regarding the products you have seen in this article. Check out our other buyers guide for bass overdrive pedals or bass preamp pedals.
Here at Guitar Effects Pedalz we also provide full reviews of the best online guitar services so you can learn guitar with our Guitar Tricks Review.
FAQs
What is a Bass Delay Pedal?
A bass delay pedal is a type of guitar effect pedal that creates an echo or repeating effect to the sound of a bass guitar. It can add depth, dimension, and ambiance to the bass tone, making it sound more dynamic and interesting.
What is Delay Time and Why is it Important?
Delay time refers to the length of time between the original sound and the echoed sound produced by the delay unit. It is an essential parameter control on the pedal because it determines how long the echo or repeating effect will last. Delay time can range from a few milliseconds to several seconds, and it affects the overall sound and feel of the effect.
What is the Difference Between Analog and Digital Delay Pedals?
Analog delay pedals use a Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) to create the sound of analog delay. They are known for their warm and natural sound and often have fewer features and parameter controls on the pedal. Digital delay pedals, on the other hand, use digital signal processing to produce a delay effect. They often offer more features, parameter controls, and longer delay times, but they may not sound as warm and organic as analog delay pedals.
What is Mod and Shimmer in a Bass Delay Pedal?
Mod is a modulation effect that adds a subtle vibrato or chorus to the delay effect, creating a more complex and textured sound. Shimmer is a high-frequency effect that adds a shimmering, ethereal quality to the delay effect, making it sound more ambient and dreamy.
What are Presets in a Bass Delay Pedal?
Presets are pre-programmed settings on the pedal that allow you to save and recall specific delay sounds or configurations. They are useful for live performances or studio recordings when you need to switch between different delay settings quickly and easily.
What is the Carryover Switch in a Bass Delay Pedal?
The carryover switch is a cool feature found in some delay pedals that allows the delay effect to continue even after you turn off the pedal. It can create a smooth and natural transition between the wet and dry signal, making it sound more seamless and musical.
How Many Digital Delays Can a Bass Delay Pedal Have?
Some feature-rich bass delay pedals can have multiple digital delays with different delay times, presets, modulations, and parameter controls on the pedal. For example, some pedals can have up to 10 seconds of delay time, multiple presets, and seconds in stereo.
How Do I Control the Decay or Regen in a Bass Delay Pedal?
Decay or regen refers to the number of times the echoed sound repeats before it fades away. Most bass delay pedals have a decay or regen knob or button that allows you to control the amount of feedback or regeneration of the effect. Turning the knob clockwise increases the decay or regen, while turning it counterclockwise decreases it.
Can I Add a Bass Delay Pedal to My Pedalboard?
Yes, you can add a bass delay pedal to your pedalboard like any other guitar effect pedal. Make sure to position it correctly in the signal chain, experiment with different settings and configurations, and use it tastefully to enhance your bass tone without overpowering it.
Last update on 2023-10-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API