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Average Price: $195

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$100

$251+

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler, a must-have masterpiece for every dedicated guitarist. This exceptional stompbox offers 16 distinct delay modes and an integrated looper, gifting musicians with a myriad of sonic possibilities. It's like having an entire universe of effects at your feet, ready to color your sound in every shade of awesome. Compact yet robust, this pedal is designed to endure the rigors of on-stage use while delivering the high-quality effects Line 6 is renowned for.

Key Features:

  • 16 unique and versatile delay modes
  • Built-in looper for creating layers of sound
  • Sturdy construction for long-lasting durability
  • High-quality sound modeling from Line 6
  • User-friendly interface for easy tweaking of effects
  • Compact design for easy integration into any pedalboard.

Product specs

Brand Line 6
Model DL4 Delay Modeler
Finish Green
Year 1999 - 2021
Made In United States
Categories Delay Pedals, Loop Pedals and Samplers
Pedal Format Floor Unit

FAQs

What types of delay effects does the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler offer?

The Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler provides a variety of delay effects, including digital, analog, tape echo, and reverse delay, among others, allowing for versatile sound experimentation.

Does the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler include a looper function?

Yes, the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler features a built-in looper with up to 14 seconds of loop time, perfect for creating layered soundscapes and practicing solos.

Is the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler suitable for live performances?

The Line 6 DL4 is highly regarded for live use due to its robust construction and intuitive footswitch layout, making it easy to switch between effects on stage.

How does the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler handle stereo output?

The Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler supports true stereo output, allowing for rich, expansive soundscapes in both live and studio settings.

What are the power requirements for the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler?

The Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler requires a 9V DC power supply, which is typically included, but it can also run on four C-cell batteries for portable use.

Reverb

Reverb

Line 6 DL4 Delay Pedal | Reverb Demo

Video thumbnail for Line 6 DL4 Delay Pedal | Reverb Demo by Reverb

Line 6 DL4 Delay Pedal | Reverb Demo

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler Demo by brandon672008

Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler Demo

brandon672008

brandon672008

Video thumbnail for Line 6 DL4 Digital Delay by shnobel

Line 6 DL4 Digital Delay

shnobel

shnobel

Video thumbnail for Guitar Effects - Delay Pedals - Line6 DL4 Delay Modeler - Marty's Gear Thursday by Marty Music

Guitar Effects - Delay Pedals - Line6 DL4 Delay Modeler - Marty's Gear Thursday

Marty Music

Marty Music

Video thumbnail for Line 6 DL4 vs Strymon Timeline Delay by shnobel

Line 6 DL4 vs Strymon Timeline Delay

shnobel

shnobel

Video thumbnail for Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler demo and tricks #1 by Depotgear

Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler demo and tricks #1

Depotgear

Depotgear

Video thumbnail for Is the Line 6 DL4 Delay Still Good? Dagan Finds Out! by PMTVUK

Is the Line 6 DL4 Delay Still Good? Dagan Finds Out!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Line6 DL4 Delay Modeler - VGW by Vintage Guitar Workshop

Line6 DL4 Delay Modeler - VGW

Vintage Guitar Workshop

Vintage Guitar Workshop

Reviews

PROS

  • Wide range of delay effects, very versatile

  • Models classic delays (Space Echo, Memory Man) accurately

  • Functional as both delay and looper

  • Used by both amateur and professional musicians

  • Allows for hands-on, real-time adjustments to sound

  • Can switch independently between 3 presets

  • Tap tempo feature for on-the-fly adjustments

  • Durable build, despite some design issues

  • Expression pedal input adds further sound manipulation

  • Some find it indispensable for creating unique sounds

CONS

  • Prone to breaking and reliability issues

  • Requires frequent cleaning and maintenance

  • Some units have a slight volume drop-off

  • Large size can be inconvenient for pedalboard space

  • Looper functionality limited compared to dedicated loopers

  • Power supply issues reported by some users

  • Some early production units compromise guitar tone

  • Footswitches can be fragile and may need replacing

  • Cannot use delay and looper simultaneously

  • Some find newer alternatives offer better features and reliability

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler.

Features and functionality

  • The DL4 MK1's 14-second looper can be extended to 28 seconds using the 1/2 speed function, though with reduced audio quality.

    Source
  • The DL4 Delay Modeler includes stereo delay and rhythmic delay, offering versatile options for different playing styles.

    Source
  • The DL4 MKII allows simultaneous use of delay and reverb, with the ability to choose the signal order or play them in parallel.

    Source
  • The DL4 MKII's looper can be reprogrammed so tap tempo triggers the looper directly, allowing looping in any delay mode without switching settings.

    Source
  • The DL4 MKII includes modern delays alongside legacy modes, ensuring it doesn't sound dated and offering a wide range of delay effects.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Andrew Bird reportedly uses two DL4 units, one for pizzicato loops and another for legato loops, showcasing its versatility in live setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some prefer the EHX Canyon for digital delay and MXR Carbon Copy for analog due to their sound quality and reliability.

    Source
  • The Boss DD-200 is noted for better sound and reliability compared to the DL4, though the DL4 is favored for its looper functionalities.

    Source
  • Some users found the Source Audio Nemesis too complex and the delay sounds too similar, preferring the DL4 MKII's ease of use and distinct sound variety.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users often replace the easily broken switches, suggesting this as a common modification for improved durability.

    Source
  • Some users mod the DL4 with sturdier switches, new LEDs, and additional footswitches for infinite feedback and looper activation.

    Source

Build quality

  • The DL4 is known to be large and difficult to power, which can be a drawback for live performances.

    Source
  • The footswitches on the DL4 MK1 are prone to failure but can be upgraded to more durable DPDT footswitches to extend pedal lifespan.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite cosmetic wear, many long-term owners report the DL4 MK1 still functions well even after years of heavy gigging and mishandling.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the pitch delay for its arpeggiated effect, highlighting its versatility in creative applications.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Dust and grime can corrode the enclosure; using Deoxit and storing the pedal in a ziplock bag can prevent damage.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The DL4 MKII is priced around $600 in Australia, compared to $250 in the U.S., affecting purchasing decisions between it and competitors like the Boss DD-500 and Strymon TimeLine.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 56 Reviews and 339 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
tu_tran

cool sound and cool design

I noticed that average 9 out of 10 Japanese guitarists have this pedal, so I bought one. I love it specially the design

However, I'm experiencing some volume drop when using it with overdrive (Cinder) and distortion (HM2).

Preferred Settings + Usage:

I mostly uses it with tape delay and auto volume (i can swell with it)

From Gear Setup
donca

amazing

Resells for very affordable price nowadays. The amount of different and insane sounds it can make while just being a single digital delay pedal is incredible and super fun. I don't use it professionally but it was definitely worth it just for the fun and sometimes beautiful sounds. Favorite and craziest mode is sweep echo.

Roles:
Genres:
edvinlaura

One of a few pedals I've ever sold

I have few dozens of pedals and this one is a rare case, when I sold a pedal. I couldn't find a use of it. The delays are generic, the looper is too short. The size is huge, the power forces you to bring with you a dedicated power cable. There are more interesting delays than this, and they don't occupy half of your pedal board. On my board it was replaced by Avalanche run and Walrus audio Lore. *and still some space left :) No regrets.

chapersdale

Just Wow, what a pedal!

Bought this cheap off facebook sales on a whim. Best. Purchase. Ever. Versatile is off the charts, delay and loop quality is incredible. I've lost so many hours in an spacy ethereal delay induced creative bubble and I don't think I ever want to leave. The sheer number of amateur and pros alike that use this pedal should speak for itself. If you see one, buy it.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Impossible to pick one favourite setting for this pedal. It does everything you want and more and it does it brilliantly!

Roles:
From Gear Setup
jp_belanger

Like most Line 6 products from this era: it sounds awesome, but the built is to be questioned...

Let's get this right out of the way: this pedal has all the delays one could want, and they all sound awesome.

Now, before going any further, in case you don't know Line 6 products from this series (DL4, FM4, MM4, M5, M9, M13...) that share those switches all eventually fail. At least, the tap tempo switch on mine gave up pretty quickly, under 6 months of playing in my apartment, wearing socks only. I also had a M13 that had some switches that would behave randomly when hit. Either I would have to hit it harder, or tap it twice to activate. It's a real shame since its enclosure is built like a tank and would withstand one's life of playing. There are schematics available online to help you swap the switches with soft, higher end ones that feels better and last way longer. Some companies will even do it for you (look for JHV3).

This problem is the main reason why people who buy it end giving up because, well let's be honest there are far better options on the market now and fixing broken things is pricey. My advice would be: if you can get your hands on a beaten one with broken switches for more or less $100, and get a tech to fix it with higher end switches. Because fix that, and you have a hell of a Delay pedal, one of the best actually!

gchiaren

Pretty awesome delay pedal & looper

The Line 6 DL4 is one of those pedals you almost have to go out and try simply because of it's popularity amongst guitarists. To be honest, I'm not much of a delay pedal snob. I haven't owned or tried enough delays to really understand the nuances. Maybe for that reason, the fact that this pedal models 16 echo and delay boxes is perfect for me. The guitar sound I really like to emulate is a Editors/Coldplay/Bloc Party sort of sound, and this pedal has plenty of options for that.

I'm a fan of looper pedals, so the onboard 14-second looper is really what sold me on this one. I saw it as a way to get a good looper and a variety of delays all in one box... at least until I build out my pedal collection and go deep on some delays. The loop function is super easy to use, and 14 seconds is plenty of time to record a substantial loop and jam on top of it - it's pretty satisfying sounding like a one man band!

The build quality is great, I've gigged with it and have had no issues. Admittedly the price is a little steep, but I've had this thing for so long and it has brought me so much enjoyment that I don't really think about what I paid for it.

I'd say an easy 4 or 4.5 stars out of 5 for the DL4. Even if you're a delay pedal purist or collector, try this one out, it might still have something to offer you.

From Gear Setup
luxiu
luxiu

44626

Have you tried TC's Flashback X4? I think nowadays is a better alternative in the same price league, and I think it's not as popular as the DL4 just for the fact of the many options you have around today while the DL4 made its way a time ago when the fact of far less competition helped turning it into the classic that today it is.

gchiaren

I haven't tried the TC Electronics Flashback X4 - wow it looks so similar! Yeah I totally agree with you, the DL4 came out a while back and now everyone uses it. Next time I'm at the guitar store I will definitely play with the X4 and let you know what I think :)

luxiu
luxiu

44626

Yeah, the X4 is very similar at first sight as it doesn't overwhelm much more about the interface (indeed, it looks/feels even easier) while in fact it covers many other advanced features (useful and inspiring), I'll be waiting for your review then!

the_last_factory

What can I say that everyone else hasn't?

This is a beautiful delay pedal that I use mainly for swells since I lack a volume pedal, but I also use it for extending copies of my tape and analog delay repeats since I like how the copies degrade with time. I used to own a DD-500, but it was stolen and I used to think that this was a piece of shit pedal just because of the way that it looked, but as you can see I was so wrong and it is now crucial to my overall sound.

ryanrbrown

So many options and great looper!

This pedal has served me so well. I'll admit it, if i had the extra money, I would have bought myself a TimeLine a long time ago. I picked up my DL4 used quite a while ago and it has been a valuable part of my board ever since then. Although it doesn't have quite as many options as some of it's competitors (few can keep up with Strymon), it still has more effects and combinations than I have ever been able to put together and there has never been a delay lick that I haven't been able to replicate with this guy. It's also very easy to use and figure out and the controls are straight forward and logical. On top of all that the looper in it works great and gives you even more options with stop/play button, a "play once" button, and even some settings that allow half speed and backwards playing of your loop. I love this pedal and I have a hard time seeing myself let it go after all we've been through.

gigsucker

Just great

I use it only as a looper. Wish to have a few more!

Power supply is a pain in the ass, but it worth it. Haven't tried MKII, but judge some things already: small time limitation is a must, as well as losing recorded sample once the power is off. Otherwise we ended up with just tapping space on a laptop. Live sampling must be tricky and limited!

From Gear Setup
gavin_sterkel

Incredible Delay Pedal

This is one of my most used pedals by far and I could not be more happy with it. Though size wise it is rather large, if you really care about delay, you will make room for this powerhouse of a pedal. With countless banks and programable and quick-changable presets, this pedal can switch independently between 3 different presets at a time. The tap tempo helps a ton when you need to make last minute speed adjustments on the fly and has come in handy several times live. The DL-4 is used by some of the best in the business and for good reason. Whether you want quick snapback delays or huge (and I mean HUGE) stereo ping pong delays, this pedal can do it all. For cheaper than most EHX pedals, the only better pedal that I know of in terms of delay is the Strymon Timeline (more than 2x the price). To sum up, this pedal has never let me down, extremely well built, and can create about any delay sound you can think of. Do yourself a favor and go get this pedal as fast as you can.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Daron Malakian uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Daron Malakian

Singer, Guitarist

System of a Down

...
Verified via Photo

Daron used the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler in 2001 and 2002. Since 2003 he is using Boss Delays to "keep it simple".

See how Troy Van Leeuwen uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Troy Van Leeuwen

Guitarist

Queens of the Stone Age

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:50 in this Rig Rundown for Troy Van Leeuwen of The Wongergirls, Queens of the Stone Age, Enemy, Failure, A Perfect Circle, Sweathead, and The Desert Sessions, his gear is displayed, showing a Line 6 DL4 Delay Guitar Effects Pedal.

See how Graham Coxon uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Graham Coxon

Guitarist

Blur

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:59 minute mark of "Coffee and TV" performance at Hyde Park in 2009, the Line 6 DL4 can be seen next to Line 6 FM4.

See how Chris Shiflett uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Chris Shiflett

Guitarist

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via Fulltone

Chris Shiflett uses the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler, as shown in a photo of his pedalboard on Fulltone's website.

See how Mark Hoppus uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Mark Hoppus

Singer, Bassist

Blink-182

...
Verified via Twitter

You can spot it on his "Rack of Doom" posted on Twitter by Mark.

See how Justin Vernon uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Justin Vernon

Singer, Guitarist

Bon Iver

...
Verified via Photo

In this source you can see a picture of Justin Vernon's pedalboard which this item is placed at.

See how St. Vincent uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

St. Vincent

Singer, Guitarist

The Polyphonic Spree

...
Verified via Photo

This picture of one of Annie's old pedalboard, shows that that she owns a Line 6 DL4 Delay Guitar Effects Pedal.

See how Joe Perry uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Joe Perry

Guitarist

Hollywood Vampires

...
Verified via YouTube

"Of course, we've got the standard Line 6," says Joe Perry's guitar tech.

See how Omar Rodríguez-López uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Omar Rodríguez-López

Guitarist, Bassist

At the Drive-In

...
Verified via YouTube

A DL4 can be seen on Omar's pedalboard at about 5 minutes into the video.

See how Lee Ranaldo uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Lee Ranaldo

Singer, Guitarist

Sonic Youth

...
Verified via Photo

According to the Sonic Youth website, Lee Ranaldo used a Line 6 DL4 in Sonic Youth in March 2006.

Full article here

See how Eddie Vedder uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Eddie Vedder

Singer, Guitarist

Pearl Jam

...
Verified via Photo

Eddie Vedder uses the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler during performances with Pearl Jam and his solo gigs, as evidenced by a user-uploaded photo on Equipboard.

See how Gustavo Cerati uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Gustavo Cerati

Singer, Guitarist

Soda Stereo

...
Verified via YouTube

Gustavo used this pedal to play live along with Spinetta in 2010.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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michael

michael

Gear IQ 42641

gchiaren

gchiaren

Gear IQ 37552

chapersdale

chapersdale

Gear IQ 1086

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

chapersdale

chapersdale

Gear IQ 1086

L

lorisceccato

Gear IQ 86

eryeager

eryeager

Gear IQ 288

shunsukegoto210592

shunsukegoto210592

Gear IQ 73

B

boheme

Gear IQ 87

J

jorgegil

Gear IQ 76

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

licha_vece

licha_vece

Gear IQ 4204

supersonic_fuzz_cvnt

supersonic_fuzz_cvnt

Gear IQ 148

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

licha_vece

licha_vece

Gear IQ 4204

gigsucker

gigsucker

Gear IQ 301

gigsucker

gigsucker

Gear IQ 301

licha_vece

licha_vece

Gear IQ 4204

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

mr_g

mr_g

Gear IQ 110

supersonic_fuzz_cvnt

supersonic_fuzz_cvnt

Gear IQ 148

mark_shannon

mark_shannon

Gear IQ 69

nathaniel_danger_fitzgerald

nathaniel_danger_fitzgerald

Gear IQ 145

supersonic_fuzz_cvnt

supersonic_fuzz_cvnt

Gear IQ 148

jameslatham

jameslatham

Gear IQ 61

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

tu_tran

tu_tran

Gear IQ 172

parker_p

parker_p

Gear IQ 152

cornfed94

cornfed94

Gear IQ 397

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

mkn_upa

mkn_upa

Gear IQ 1171

matt0201

matt0201

Gear IQ 112

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

gigsucker

gigsucker

Gear IQ 301

E

edwardscott

Gear IQ 54

nathaniel_danger_fitzgerald

nathaniel_danger_fitzgerald

Gear IQ 145

S

sheeppolo

Gear IQ 67

christian_russano

christian_russano

Gear IQ 90

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

joey_zendejas

joey_zendejas

Gear IQ 156

cheahumada

cheahumada

Gear IQ 95

chinobleach

chinobleach

Gear IQ 97

jimdegroot

jimdegroot

Gear IQ 370

hco_guitars

hco_guitars

Gear IQ 684

cornfed94

cornfed94

Gear IQ 397

cornfed94

cornfed94

Gear IQ 397

obradoom

obradoom

Gear IQ 337

paolo_g_navejas

paolo_g_navejas

Gear IQ 114

the_ronin

the_ronin

Gear IQ 257

weary_karmacid

weary_karmacid

Gear IQ 115

rory_stq

rory_stq

Gear IQ 164

cesar_ruiz

cesar_ruiz

Gear IQ 107

currocano

currocano

Gear IQ 110

juanlo

juanlo

Gear IQ 114

12 alternative and related items for Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler, curated by the Equipboard community.

Line 6 DL4 MkII

$211.00 - $249.99

newer

Line 6 has re-issued an newer version that is cheaper than a second hand original.

TC Electronic Flashback X4 Delay

$164.45

Vintage or Discontinued high-end alternative

It serves a similar purpose and took inspiration from the DL4.

Boss DD-7 Digital Delay

$123.99 - $169.22

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound cheaper alternative

Similar pedal, but more compact and has no looper. The looper in DL4 is not the best, so not a big a deal.

Boss DD-20 Giga Delay

$111.00

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

The DD-20 has 4 presets, plus a 5th for whatever the delay mode knob is currently turned to. It's got a screen which is helpful when tweaking parameters, and legendary Boss build quality. The DD-20 is also a bit smaller so you'll have room for another pedal :)

Vox DelayLab

$88.00

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

A great DL-4 alternative, and in many ways superior. No volume drop issues, "Seamless Bypass," and it sounds at least as good as the DL-4. The looper is great as well.

Roland Space Echo RE-101

$799.99

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

Modeled in the pedal.

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