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Average Price: $195

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$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
fabio_solimann

Too big, but it's very good

My only issue with this pedal is it's size, I can't put any more pedals in my pedalboard because of it, but it has every feature a delay pedal can have

othiym23

This is quite possibly my favorite pedal of all time

I might get the Empress delay plugin at some point because it's so ridiculously powerful and configurable, but I have used the Line6 a ton and all of its modes sound so good they sometimes make me want to cry. Also, its built-in looping and triggering capabilities are all I've ever really needed for my guitar.

chasedobson

green box magic

Fantastic and now classic (?) delay modeler. If you neen clean crisp delays, its got you covered, modulated tails, that too. Its not the best thing out there but it covers SO much territory that its remained a part of my setup. Great on aux sends for dub sessions due to its hands on nature.

tinusbolus

Complete and very useful

A pedal with endless possibilities! It is very well build. Some people complain about a volumedrop or about the switches. I don't experience any problems with it. I used the regular flashback of TC Electronic, but I was missing the opportunity of presets. Especially the looper is very useful. The pedal is quite big and maybe expensive for some, but for its sound and possibilities it isn't expensive at all.

jimmarchi1

Not knocked out

I know this is the most ubiquitous modeling delay on the planet, but I really do not like the DL4. I am glad they invented this 4 button format to be copied by companies like TC Electronic, but I just could never get into the sound of this thing when I owned it. It lasted maybe 2 weeks and went out the door! I did really dig that filtery delay model for creating wild portishead HPF repeats with increasing resonance and cutoff. This pedal also seemed to compromise my core guitar tone even when disengaged. I felt it compressed everything and cut my bandwidth some. I hate that. the tap worked well though, and that's good as were the silent switches. Not for me though. I apparently still have one of these but it seems to be broken. Color me surprised.

themaddalton

Mainstay

Hours of fun. From simple analogy delay to faithful reproductions of effects that are now veritable antiques & impossible to obtain -it can be a complex pedal but great to have this array of options in one stomp box thought it does take up a lot of real estate.
Have owned mine since 2000, no issues but I believe some people are not faring so well w/ older version of theirs.

atr89

One of the best and most complete delays. A classic.

A very complete and open ended delay. 3 presets. Tap tempo. I love the loop feature. I own two of this. I use them sometimes for looping and the other one for delay. or at times, I use both for loops. I love its play once, reverse and half speed function. You won't find that in a delay, except for the Strymon Timeline, but just to have the features this pedal offers talking about loops, you'll spend like twice the price of a DL4. The downside is that at times, I used to have troubles correctly powering it. (it uses supposedly 2000ma). Also, I haven't experienced it, but I've heard that sometimes the switches fail. They can be changed, but I guess it's normal. According to its use. To me, it's better than the Flashback and the DD20. Haven't tried the Eventide or Timeline.

sylxx

Haven't even begun to imagine the possibilities

Many delay types to cover all your delaying needs! 3 pre-sets and built in tap tempo. Easier to recreate the delays of some of my favourite songs because it's used to widely.

Second hand is the way to go, they are coming down in price, and so definitely worth the buy.

Cons: Delay and Looper cannot be used at the same time. Footswitches CAN (hasn't happened with me) break

My personal wish: I would like to get it modded with new footswitches and LED's, double the memory presets to 6 and separating the loop function. All these mods can be done to it and they can all work together, it's just finding a modder in the UK & Ireland.

starguitar

Versatile looping capabilities inspired by Howie Day

I bought this more for the looping capabilities than the delay (14 seconds of loop memory). Gotta admit, I saw Howie Day several years ago making heavy use of it and I loved the looping bits he did with it. It's just a very fun box, price isn't bad either for all you get.

EDIT: here it is in action http://youtu.be/LdqM8-gc4vo?t=6m2s

kechu

One of the best delays

i bought this pedal because many guitarist i hear use it and it did not disappointed. Very versatile and you can use in guitars, mics, samplers, etc

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dave Grohl uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Dave Grohl

Guitarist, Drummer

Nirvana

...
Verified via Photo

In this user-uploaded photo from a 2011 show, Dave Grohl is seen using the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler.

See how John Frusciante uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

John Frusciante

Guitarist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via Photo

In this scanned article from Guitarist magazine, June 2003 edition, Frusciante's pedalboard can be seen. In the top row of the pedalboard, the green Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeling Pedal can be seen.

See how John Mayer uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

John Mayer

Guitarist

John Mayer Trio

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, John Mayer can be seen using a Line 6 DL4 Guitar Effects Pedal.

See how James Hetfield uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

James Hetfield

Singer, Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

In a user-uploaded Instagram photo, James Hetfield is pictured using a Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler.

See how Billie Joe Armstrong uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Billie Joe Armstrong

Singer, Guitarist

Green Day

...
Verified via YouTube

Billie Joe's guitar tech points out his Line 6 DL4 at 1:46 in this rig rundown video.

See how Thom Yorke uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Thom Yorke

Singer, Guitarist

Radiohead

...
Verified via Photo

A Line 6 DL4 can be seen on each of Thom Yorke's two pedalboards in this photo, from this article detailing their gear when they played Austin City Limits in 2010.

See how Matthew Bellamy uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Matthew Bellamy

Singer, Guitarist

Muse

...
Verified via Musewiki

Before switching to the rack-mounted Line 6 Echo Pro, Bellamy used the Line 6 DL4 as his main delay pedal for the Showbiz and Origin of Symmetry Tours.

See how Kirk Hammett uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Kirk Hammett

Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via Metallica

According to Metallica's 2010 tour gear list, Kirk Hammett uses Line 6 DL4 Delay pedals.

See how Johnny Marr uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Johnny Marr

Singer, Guitarist

Modest Mouse

...
Verified via Premierguitar

This interview with Marr for Premier Guitar magazine, regarding the recording of his 2018 album Call the Comet, includes a list of gear currently he used during the sessions. The DL-4 pedal is among the effects on the list.

See how Noel Gallagher uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Noel Gallagher

Singer, Guitarist

Oasis

...
Verified via Photo

Noel's most recent (documented) guitar effects pedal setup includes (from right to left, followingthe signal chain): Ibanez TS-808 Tubescreamer, MXR Dyna Comp, ProCo Rat Distortion, Boss RV Reverb/Delay, MXR Micro Amp, Boss Digital Delay, Boss TR-2 Tremolo, Boss Tuner Pedal, Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler. Pedalboard by Mike Hill Services.

See how Tony Iommi uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Tony Iommi

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

In this pic you can clearly spot the Line 6 DL4

See how Trent Reznor uses Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler

Trent Reznor

Singer, Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Vimeo

The item can be seen 0:12 into this video…

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

Line 6 DL4 MkII

$209.00 - $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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