Delay pedals are commonly mistaken as being the same thing as reverb pedals, but in fact, these are different effects. Delay works by recording the input that goes into the pedal and playing it back a few milliseconds after the original sound. This creates an echo-like effect that can add a lot of depth to your playing.
TC Electronics Flashback 2 is one of the best delay pedals on the market. It uses new revolutionary pedal technology and has a wide variety of features, but these new features don’t compromise the basic delay functions. Here is my review of the TC Electronics Flashback 2 Delay Pedal.
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TC Electronic Flashback 2 Delay Pedal Review
Delay is one of the most popular effects on a pedalboard, so there are hundreds of different delay pedal options. Of course, there is nothing wrong with using a simple cookie-cutter delay pedal, but if you want versatility and a library of different settings, look no further than TC Electronic Flashback 2. This pedal sounds great and has every feature you could possibly need in a delay pedal. The best part? It comes at a reasonable price.
Frontman Philosophy Score
Specifications
- 4.8” by 2.8” by 2”
- “MASH” footswitch technology allows you to control the milliseconds and intensity of the delay by applying more pressure to the footswitch
- 8 different delay (including a 40-second loop) settings and 3 customizable TonePrint slots
- Stereo and mono input/output
- Battery (1x9V) or cable powered
- True bypass analog pedal
What’s great?
- Lots of sound versatility with 8 different delay settings and 3 customizable Toneprint slots
- Tons of control over the volume, intensity, and milliseconds of delay using the “MASH” technology
- Doubles as a loop pedal with a 40-second loop setting
Some downsides?
- It is difficult to change the settings in the middle of playing
- Power cord is sold separately
- “MASH” is sensitive and can make it difficult to tell when the pedal is turned “on” or “off”
Sound
My score: 5 out of 5
30% of the total score
The Flashback 2 is a true-bypass pedal which means that you maintain the clearest tone possible when plugged into this pedal. The pedal has many different sound options that can accommodate various genres and playing styles. The delay pedal uses good quality sounds that make your playing sound good, and the incorporation of “MASH” blends very well with the built-in effect sounds.
Features/controls
My score: 4 out of 5
25% of the total score
When it comes to the features of the Flashback 2, TC Electronic really hits the nail on the head. Just like their Hall of Fame 2 Reverb Pedal, the Flashback 2 Delay has 3 customizable TonePrint slots, 8 delay options, and a “MASH” footswitch that allows users to control the volume and intensity of the delay.
Simply add pressure to the pedal, and you will hear the delay swell. This delay pedal also doubles as a simple looper pedal, with 40 seconds of loop recording time. While I like the “MASH” switch’s technology, it can also get distracting when using the pedal and make it more difficult to use simple delay effects.
Download the TonePrint app and find your favorite delay effects, and then you can easily upload them to the TonePrint slots on your pedal.
You can also control the effect levels, the delay intensity, and the feedback using the manual dials on the pedal.
Price
My score: 4 out of 5
20% of the total score
The Flashback 2 may not be the cheapest delay pedal out there, but considering the number of features and the sound quality, it is definitely worth it. There are plenty of decent delay pedals out there, but this one offers revolutionary technology that other manufacturers can’t really compete with. Despite this, TC Electronic keeps the pedal at a fair price point. That being said, if you are on a tight budget, you can easily find a budget delay pedal for under $100.
Durability
My score: 5 out of 5
15% of the total score
Every pedal you buy should be strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of practice and gigging. Especially since you’ll be using the footswitch much more with the Flashback 2, it is important that the pedal is durable and has good-quality components. TC Electronics did not cut any corners when it comes to durability, and you can tell just by holding the pedal that it is built to last. I stomped on the delay pedal and used it for a few hours when testing the settings, and I can assure you that the pedal is strong enough for touring musicians.
Warranty
My score: 4.5 out of 5
10% of the total score
When buying any product, you should ensure the company has a consumer protection policy in case the pedal breaks or malfunctions. I always recommend checking the warranty before you purchase any music gear. Luckily, TC Electronic has a good warranty policy. They offer a 5-year warranty on the Flashback 2 that is only limited to misuse of the product.
Make sure your Flashback 2 is registered with MusicTribe within 90 days of purchasing it.
Wrapping up
The TC Electronic Flashback 2 is a world-class delay pedal that offers something for every type of musician. There are tons of different sounds available, and you can customize three slots on the pedal. So if you are looking for a versatile delay pedal that incorporates fun experimental technology without compromising the basics of delay, the Flashback 2 might be the best option for you!
