Review: Endangered Audio Research AD4096 Analog Delay

I think it's safe to say that nearly every pedal company makes a great delay, and they are readily available in any music store. The main difference in delay pedals these days comes down to functionality. Some delay pedals sample, others uniquely color the delay's sound, even more are programmable and so on. What I love about Endangered Audio Research's AD4096 is the button on the left that sets off the delay feedback oscillation which creates over-the-top bass sounds. I can't tell you how often I've reached for that button with Deltron 3030, and now I've brought it out for the Juliette Lewis tour! Another incredible thing is the tone of this pedal, which is profoundly musical. 

Here's what Endangered Audio had to say: The AD4096 is a flexible and unique sounding analog delay that includes never-before-seen features and functionality. The delay voice is a familiar dusky analog delay, while the echo is a filtered voice that echoes the delay line with a soft doubling effect that carries a glittery lo-fi halo of harmonic sound dust. Mixing the delay and echo voices provides an incredible variety of sonic possibilities. Infinity mode is an analog delay loop function, that gradually shifts and decays into the dominant tone of what has been played. Inspired by classic tape delay sounds, infinity mode subtly adds character in the form of harmonic clouds that grow and drift creating incredible soundscapes. Spill-over and other special functions can be achieved using the switchable aux output jack where creative potential lurks. Using infinity mode, the aux output can be used to play with the loop. Even when bypassed the loop will continue as you play alongside. Alternately, aux output can be switched to split the input signal to allow interesting flexibility in your signal chain. Expand puts delay feedback oscillation at the touch of a button for creative expression and emphasis. The expand footswitch is a momentary type footswitch that allows this feature to be so expressive.

Don't take our word for it though, this is a pedal that needs to be heard to be believed. It's such a reliable pedal too, bit like a tank for the most rugged live situations. This guy has seen a spot on my pedalboard for quite some time now, check it out!

Go get yourself an Endangered Audio Research AD4096 on Reverb, and hear what real analog sounds like!