The Strymon dTape Delay is one of the most unique sounding
delays in this pedal. This delay is based of of an analog tape delay machine.
If I was only able to use one delay ever again this would be it. It is very
lush and warm and adds interesting characteristics to your tone.
The external controls on this effect are slightly different
than on most other delay machines on the Timeline.
Filter > Tape age
The filter knob becomes tape age in this setting. The tape
tape in these old delay machines would wear out over time and this simulates
this effect. As you turn the knob up you will age the tape and create darker
repeats
Grit > Tape Bias
The Grit knob becomes tape bias. The bias determines the
headroom and the dynamic range of your repeats. The higher the levels the less
echo volume and the more distorted your repeats will become. Strymon suggests
setting the knob around nine o’clock for the cleanest sounds.
Speed > Tape Crinkle
The speed knob is replaced by Tape Crinkle. This simulates
the imperfections that happen to tape over time. This effect can be used to
create a subtle texture to your delay, or a dramatic aged sounding delay.
Depth > Wow & Flutter
The Wow and Flutter controls take the place of the depth
knob. Like the tape Crinkle simulates the characteristics of the physical tape,
this simulates the age and quirks of the physical tape delay machine. This also simulates the modulation created by
the original tape delay. Turn the knob up more to increase the amount of mechanically
related sounds.
One other important option exists in the parameters. Press
the Value encoder to pull up the Tape Speed Parameter. You may choose between
fast and normal. Fast will have a more Hi-Fi feel or normal for a more standard
tape delay sound. The wow & flutter and Tape Crinkle are especially
affected by this setting.
This is a great and unique sounding delay machine. It is a
favorite among church musicians, especially on the Bethel and Jesus Culture
albums. With so many options it is best to spend some time experimenting with all
the controls to find a tone best suited for your needs. The dTape works well
for all settings from rhythmic dotted eighth delays to long washy swells. No
matter what you are looking for this is versatile and highly usable delay.
