Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $195
Standard/Professional
$100
$251+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
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.
Videos
Reverb
Line 6 DL4 Delay Pedal | Reverb Demo
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
Build quality
User experience
Setup and maintenance
-
Dust and grime can corrode the enclosure; using Deoxit and storing the pedal in a ziplock bag can prevent damage.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 56 Reviews and 339 Ratings
152
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
205
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.
97
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.
224
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.
41029
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.
79
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.
210
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.
126
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.
1765
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
Artist usage
Add artist
In this user-uploaded photo from a 2011 show, Dave Grohl is seen using the Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler.
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.
In a user-uploaded Instagram photo, James Hetfield is pictured using a Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler.
Billie Joe's guitar tech points out his Line 6 DL4 at 1:46 in this rig rundown video.
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.
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.
According to Metallica's 2010 tour gear list, Kirk Hammett uses Line 6 DL4 Delay pedals.
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.
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.
Album Usage
The Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler has been featured on the following albums:
One Step Ahead
Jack Johnson (2022)
Meet The Moonlight
Jack Johnson (2022)
Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost Part I
Foals (2019)
Samsara
Venom Prison & Venom Prison (2019)
Call The Comet
Johnny Marr (2018)
Fatherland (Original Music From The Stage Show)
Karl Hyde & Matthew Herbert (2017)
Love What Survives
Mount Kimbie (2017)
Delta
Mount Kimbie (2017)
Ciano (Ao Vivo)
Fresno (2016)
Hasta la Raíz (Edición Especial)
Natalia Lafourcade (2015)
Captain Of None
Colleen (2015)
Stitches
Califone (2013)
Made To Stray
Mount Kimbie (2013)
Fade
Cloudkicker (2012)
The Parallax II: Future Sequence
Between the Buried and Me (2012)
Vultures
Kensington (2012)
Spirits EP
Jamie Woon (2011)
The Path of Totality
Korn (2011)
Meridional
Norma Jean (2010)
A Town Called Obsolete
Andreya Triana (2010)
Lucky Shiner
Gold Panda (2010)
Masks
We Be The Echo (2009)
Red Socks Pugie
Foals (2008)
Tonto+
Battles (2007)
Live Friday The 13th
Maroon 5 (2007)
Mirrored
Battles (2007)
All of a Sudden I Miss Everyone
Explosions in the Sky (2007)
Atlas
Battles (2007)
Eyes Open
Snow Patrol (2006)
Ciano
Fresno (2006)
Live at Stubb's, 7/2000
Ween (2003)
Through the Ashes of Empires
Machine Head (2003)
Imperial
Robin Guthrie (2003)
Animals Should Not Try To Act Like People: Promo de Fromage
Primus (2003)
Worship And Tribute (U.S. Version)
Glassjaw (2002)
Origin of Symmetry
Muse (2001)
Showbiz
Muse (1999)
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.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation12 alternative and related items for Line 6 DL4 Delay Modeler, curated by the Equipboard community.
$209.00 - $249.99
Line 6 has re-issued an newer version that is cheaper than a second hand original.
$164.45
It serves a similar purpose and took inspiration from the DL4.
$123.99 - $169.22
Similar pedal, but more compact and has no looper. The looper in DL4 is not the best, so not a big a deal.
$111.00
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 :)
$88.00
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.
$799.99
More Line 6 Delay Effects Pedals
Gear Guides
Most Popular Delay Effects Pedals
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-