The DD series of compact delay pedals from Boss has been a staple on pedalboards all over the world since the DD-2 was introduced in 1983. Over the years, there have been a number of models produced, with each one building on the previous incarnation and increasing the flexibility of how compact delays should work. The DD-3, DD-5, DD-6 and DD-7 are now followed by Boss’ newest creation, the DD-8. Combining elements from all those others and adding in more new features as well, this next level digital delay is the most advanced unit in the DD series.
By now, you’re probably used to the advancement of the Modes on each compact DD model that comes out, and why should that change with the DD-8? Offering 11 modes to choose from, it lets you select from:
Analog — a classic analog BBD delay sound
Standard — a clear digital delay
Tape — a vintage tape-based delay sound
Warm — a digital delay with a softer sound
Reverse — backwards delay for cool psychedelic effects and other unique tones
+RV — a digital delay with reverb added
Shimmer — pitch-shifted delay for lush, shimmering textures
Mod — a digital delay with modulation added on the repeats
Warp — a unique delay that increases feedback and level, allowing you to create ambient swell effects
GLT — a newly developed delay mode that creates glitchy machine-gun effects when the pedal switch is pressed
Finally, there’s Loop mode, a loop recorder with overdub capability and up to 40 seconds of recording time with mono input (20 seconds with stereo input). Throwing this feature into a delay this size is fairly revolutionary, and pretty much instantly lets you take another pedal off of your board to save space, add in a different effect or just slim down your rig. Plus, 40 seconds of record time should be plenty for most of us, right? Even the 20 seconds if you’re running a stereo rig should suffice…
The extras that the DD-8 comes equipped with are just as impressive and useful as the sounds it can make, too. With smart technology featured on both the inputs and outputs, connecting to any setup is as easy as plugging in your cables….and DONE. The Stereo Outs give you Independent (balanced stereo), Wide Stereo (enhanced spatial depth) and Panning Delay (ping-pong; we used this classic on our demo below)) choices for fine-tuning the sound you’re after, easily connecting multiple amps for an engulfing delay tone. The Tempo/Exp jack lets you externally set the tap tempo of the delay time, and control Level, Feedback and Time parameters with an expression pedal, if you so choose. Set the Tap Division to explore delays ranging from 67 – 10,000 ms, and even use the secret Twist function if you wish to create an aggressive sense of rotation.
All in all, Boss has managed to once again top themselves in the world of compact delay pedals, and has done so in a most impressive way. All the modes you love, plus a couple newbies, plus a looper, plus intelligent stereo In/Out routing plus external control make this a real asset to any pedalboard. Whether you’re trying to utilize some new sounds in your rig, easily make complex connections or just sit and experiment for hours, the DD-8 has got your covered. Stay tuned for a look at their other new compact delay, the DD-3T, that builds on a classic pedal from the 80’s, but for now, immerse yourself in our demo below, for the just some of the sights and sounds capable of being produce by the DD-8 Digital Delay.
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