michael's Metal Pedalboard

Before committing to the carbon copy, I did try quite a few different delays. I landed on this one for a few reasons.

The first is it sounds great. Although it is a little dark and not the clearest delay out there, I prefer it that way. I usually play rock and blues, and the sound of this delay just meshes with that music incredibly well. Personally, I rarely go beyond a quarter note delay, but the Carbon Copy adds a thickness to my tone that I very much miss if it is absent.

The second reason I like this pedal is because of how easy it is to use. Three knobs; mix, regen, and delay. Couple those with a modulation button and you have a very intuitive pedal. This was an important consideration for me given my use of delay, but I can see how some folks may want more features.

The MXR Carbon Copy is heavy for its standard-sized case, and feels very robust as I’ve come to expect from all MXR pedals. I’ve owned it for years and it’s been incredibly reliable.

The carbon copy is phenomenal. It is my always on pedal, and if you are looking for a simple warm sounding delay, check it out.

This beauty was my first electric. I bought this guitar when I was 15 year old after many visits to Guitar Center. I love strats, and this one feels great in my hands. It's the California Series, which means it was constructed in the US, and painted and finished in Mexico. I overpaid for it (again, first purchase at Guitar Center before I learned they negotiate more than used car salesmen) and paid around $500.

The finish and appointments seem great, and I especially love the neck. I did lower the action a little, but all in all, a very playable guitar.

I'll never sell her, but I'm probably just being sentimental.

This is, without question, my favorite plate reverb pedal. Catalinbread modeled it after an EMT 140, and it sounds great to my ears. I run it on 18 volts, and it is usually at the end of my pedalboard right before the amplifier.

It works great for rock. The high pass filter and the pre-delay functionality really make sure the reverb doesn't muddy up the mix when playing distorted or bass-heavy tunes. It sounds very lush and rich, all while sitting nicely in the background. The build quality feels solid and there is a built-in discrete preamp capable of boost too, although I don't really use it in that capacity.

There are some great pedals in this price range, and many are better if you need a versatile reverb. But if you love plate reverb, consider the Catalinbread Talisman.