11 Best Delay Plugins For Music Production 2025

Over the years, I’ve found that picking the right delay plugin can make a significant difference in how the ambiance, space, and overall “vibe” of the track feel.

I have noticed that producers put less emphasis on time-based effects and usually slap a templatized Valhalla or H-Delay on every track and underestimate what a suitable delay plugin or settings can do.

Not all delays are built for the same job. Some are clean and barely noticeable, perfect for blending into a mix without stealing the spotlight. Others have this rich, colorful character that can completely change the vibe of a track. And then there are the wild ones, like creative delays that can turn a simple melody into a swirling, rhythmic, sound-design “masterpiece.”

Honestly, having a variety of delay plugins is non-negotiable for me. I’ve got a handful I lean on when I’m mixing, where precision and subtlety matter most.

Then there’s my stash of creative plugins for those moments when I just want to get weird and see where the sound takes me. So, in this list, I’m sharing my preferred plugins for different purposes and applications. Get ready and let’s go!

1. W. A. Production Spectron by Curbi

The first unit on the list, Spectron, catches the attention with its simple yet innovative design to create unique delay effects.

Spectron is based on a very innovative concept. Instead of simply repeating your sound, it takes each frequency and gives it its own unique delay treatment, opening up endless possibilities for creative sound design. I have found that it effortlessly transitions between creating subtle, atmospheric textures and full-blown alien soundscapes.

• Spectral Diffusion

On to some “nerd” talk and “under the hood” knowledge, Spectron uses spectral diffusion to create advanced soundscapes. Imagine spreading your audio across time and space, with each frequency playing its own part.

• SHIFT and DIFFUSE

Let me tell you about its controls now. I think that the plugin’s SHIFT function is a standout feature. It triggers spectral pitch and formant shifting that grows and changes with each repeat. Along with DIFFUSE control, you can use this feature to smear your sound into rich, reverb-like textures.

• 4 Delay Modes

Modes like Shimmer, Doom, Metal, and Lush take this even further, letting you create sparkling highs, dark lows, or metallic resonances that sound straight out of a sci-fi film.

• Interactive UI and Curated Presets

I would also like to appreciate the interactive UI that makes it easy to visualize how your sound is being processed. Further, features like A/B comparison and Undo/Redo let you experiment freely without worrying about losing your settings. Plus, it’s surprisingly light on CPU, so it doesn’t slow down your workflow.

With curated presets from Curbi himself, Spectron gives you instant access to pro-level sound design techniques while still encouraging you to explore and make it your own.

I use it for diverse applications, from crafting ambient transitions in film scores to adding depth and complexity to vocal effects in pop mixes. It’s suitable for building dynamic risers and drops in EDM tracks or designing one-of-a-kind sound effects for games and trailers, making it a versatile tool for your creative sessions.

W. A. Production Spectron is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats and is compatible with Windows 8 or higher (64-bit) and macOS 10.10 or higher (64-bit).

2. Slate Digital Stellar Echo SD-201

Analog delay has a separate place in my plugin collection because of the tonality and color it brings to some sounds. The Stellar Echo SD-201 recreates the classic 1970s tape delay, and I love using it on vocals, guitars, synthesizers, etc.

Stellar Echo SD-201 delay plugin solidifies the vintage vibe with its rich, saturated echo tones and tape-based artifacts like wow and flutter.

Sound-wise, you get the smooth, tape-saturated delays that can be as subtle or dramatic as your mix demands.

• Stereo Delay Modes and Reverb Options

Functionality-wise, there are many advanced features like multiple stereo delay modes (ping-pong, swap, and more) and upgraded reverb options, including Plate, Chamber, and Hall alongside the original spring reverb.

• Custom Mode

One of its standout features is the Custom mode, which introduces a fourth tape head. That lets you create more detailed delay patterns and lets you adjust the head’s timing, volume, and stereo position.

• Intuitive GUI

The mode selector offers a variety of echo and reverb combinations, letting you seamlessly switch between traditional delay, reverb-enhanced echoes, and even standalone reverb settings. Plus, the intuitive GUI replicates the tactile experience of working with hardware, right down to visual tape animations.

I use it to add slapback to drums, stereo ping-pong delays to pianos, or shimmering reverb-drenched echoes to vocals. Tools like HP/LP isolators, tempo sync, and an optional noise mode can be used for both subtle mix enhancements and a more off-beat sound design.

Slate Digital Stellar Echo SD-201 is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats and is compatible with Windows 10 or higher (64-bit) and macOS 11 or higher (64-bit).

3. PROCESS.AUDIO Ripple

Ripple Delay brings together the sounds of 5 legendary delay types, all in one sleek package. Whether you need the pristine clarity of digital delays, the warmth of tape echoes, gritty lo-fi textures, or the unmistakable vibe of pedal and disk delays, Ripple has you covered.

Each delay type in the unit has a subtle color to retain its character while sitting perfectly in your mix.

• Traditional Feedback Mode

Ripple features both a traditional Feedback mode for smooth, rhythmic delays and an innovative Repeat mode, which lets you fully customize the pattern of your echoes.

• Sonic Versatility 

It gives you access to 5 delay colors, 2 delay modes, 8 types of effects racks, 2 LFOs for modulation, and 100+ presets.

• Repeat Mode

The Repeat mode is perfect for crafting intricate delay sequences with precise control over gain and panning for each echo. Whether you’re going for a subtle ambiance or intricate, syncopated delays, this plugin delivers.

• Modular FX Rack

I am also impressed by its modular FX Rack, modeled after a 500-series studio processor. With tools like Ensemble, Phaser, Pitch, and Reverb, you can build or tweak delay effects to perfection. You can rearrange the effects with an easy drag-and-drop interface and shape your sound with a straightforward yet flexible design.

• Delay Dynamics

Ripple redefines delay dynamics with independent gate and ducking controls for your delay’s send and return lines. This level of precision allows for cleaner mixes, like duck delays during loud sections, or cut them entirely in quiet moments for a polished sound.

You also get two assignable LFOs that can modulate nearly any parameter, including FX rack modules, delay times, and feedback levels.

• KILL and THROW Features

Further, Ripple’s KILL and THROW features make creating delay throws and cuts a breeze, saving you the hassle of complex automation. Its Anti-Doppler control ensures pitch stability, avoiding unwanted shifts often associated with changing delay times.

As an entry point for its users, Ripple Delay comes loaded with 100+ expertly crafted presets for vocals, guitars, synths, drums, and more.

PROCESS.AUDIO Ripple is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats and is compatible with Windows 8.1 or higher (64-bit) and macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) to macOS 12 (Monterey). 

4. Sound Particles inDelay

By integrating the Sound Particles’ renowned 3D Particles System into a delay plugin, inDelay allows you to position and animate delay “particles” in a 3D space. Imagine crafting delays that rotate, float, or bounce around the listener, adding depth and movement like never before.

With up to 100 delays available, inDelay lets you adjust the Time Editor to fine-tune multiple parameters at once or add as many filters as you need to sculpt your sound. You can customize each delay tap individually, including its source, position, and feedback count.

The best part bout this plugin is its compatibility with Dolby and other spahttps://soundparticles.com/products/indelaytial sound mixing, which is found very rarely in delay plugins. inDelay supports over 30 output formats, including stereo, binaural, 5.1, Dolby Atmos, and Ambisonics, and lets you create both stereo mixes and 360° spatial audio.

Now, I will tell you some of the cool controls you get in this plugin.

• Feedback Space Patterns

This feature lets you design intricate feedback loops that don’t just echo but move through a 3D space. Customize the delay patterns and spatial positions, creating dynamic, evolving effects that add depth and complexity to your mix.

• Soundscape Mode

With Soundscape Mode, you can effortlessly create lush, immersive delays that fill the stereo or spatial field. This mode is suitable for building ambient layers, cinematic atmospheres, or dreamy textures that transform simple audio into mesmerizing, multi-dimensional experiences.

• Air Simulation

Air Simulation is one of the most innovative delay plugin features that I have seen. It simulates realistic sound environments and mimics the natural absorption of high frequencies over distance. That feature is especially useful for creating convincing spatial effects in post-production or for adding depth and realism to ambient and atmospheric tracks.

• Random Presets

The Random button is like your creative shortcut. With a single click, it generates unique delay settings that could spark new ideas or lead you to sounds you wouldn’t have thought of.

Sound Particles inDelay is available in VST3, AU2, and AAX plugin formats and is compatible with Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.15 and higher.  

5. Newfangled Audio Recirculate

Recirculate combines traditional delay concepts with innovative feedback processing and granular effects and offers a fresh approach to delay design. The plugin has a feedback control system that allows you to set independent delay times and repeats for the left and right channels.

With its intuitive visual graph, you can easily create intricate delay rhythms, sync them to your track’s tempo, or explore freeform designs in milliseconds. Its feedback loop becomes a playground for shaping echoes with unmatched precision.

• Dual Time Control

Recirculate introduces a Dual Time Control feature, where you can define the initial delay and subsequent repeats independently. That allows for unique rhythmic patterns like placing an upbeat echo followed by syncopated repeats.

• Granular Mode

It also has a granular mode, switching to which transforms your delays into evolving textures. You can use the Spray control to randomize the grains for a choppy, unpredictable effect or dial in the Size to adjust the length of the grains for smoother, diffuse trails. These tools enable everything from subtle shimmer to experimental soundscapes.

• Filtering Section

Further, the filtering section of Recirculate is one of its standout features. Beyond simple high-pass and low-pass filters, it offers resonant peaks, notches, and combo modes that allow you to precisely sculpt the tone of your echoes. Morphable filter shapes provide a level of tonal control rarely seen in delay plugins, letting you emphasize or soften key frequencies in your feedback loop.

• Dynamics Processor

Recirculate’s dynamics processors include a transient designer, compressor, and ducker, giving you unparalleled control over how your delays interact with the dry signal. For example, use the transient designer to smear echoes for ethereal trails or tighten them for sharp, rhythmic repetitions.

The ducker is particularly powerful, pushing delays out of the way during busy sections and letting them bloom during quieter moments.

• 28 Noise and Saturation Profiles

Add personality to your delays with Recirculate’s Character Section, which includes 28 noise and saturation profiles. From clean and modern to gritty and vintage, these options help you dial in the exact vibe you’re after. For even more creative flair, you can introduce drive or subtle noise into the delays or dry path for additional warmth and texture.

• Soundstage Controls

Recirculate’s Soundstage controls take your delays to another dimension. Use Spread to offset the delay timing between channels or activate Ping Pong for rhythmic left-right echoes. Add modulation with adjustable speed and depth to create swirling, evolving repeats. Crossfeed between channels for even more spatial complexity, and enhance everything with lush reverb for a polished, immersive sound.

To get you started, Recirculate offers an extensive library of presets tailored for various instruments and styles.

Newfangled Audio Recirculate is available in VST3, AU2, and AAX plugin formats and is compatible with Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.9+ and higher.  

6. Softube Tape Echoes

Tape Echoes captures the essence of a vintage tape delay unit and recreates the saturation, wow, flutter, and tape degradation that comes with hardware tape units. These imperfections add a natural, warm character to your delays, which is ideal for creating an analog feel in your mixes.

The built-in spring reverb pairs beautifully with the delay to add dimension and depth to your sound and is especially effective for creating lush, immersive echoes on vocals, guitars, and keys. You get Multi-Mode Operation with single, dual, and ping-pong delay modes that let you explore various stereo imaging options.

• Drive and Wear Controls

Tape Echoes also includes tone-shaping tools like Drive and Wear, such that Drive introduces harmonic saturation for a more pronounced analog vibe, while Wear adjusts the tape’s condition, ranging from clean to heavily degraded for lo-fi textures.

• Modulation Controls

You can also adjust the speed and depth of modulation to create everything from subtle warbles to wild, pitch-shifting echoes. These controls allow you to replicate the natural tape inconsistencies of classic machines.

I use Tape Echoes for everything from slapback effects on drums or guitars to dreamy vocal echoes or experimenting with feedback and modulation for sound design to lo-fi and retro-inspired tracks.

Softube Tape Echoes is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats and is compatible with Windows 10 and higher (64-bit) and macOS Monterey 12, Ventura 13, and Sonoma 14.

Check this post about the list of Softube plugins.

7. Kuassa EFEKTOR DL3606 Delay

The EFEKTOR DL3606 Delay consists of 5 distinct delay types, which, in my opinion, is the highlight of the plugin. Its Digital mode is where I turn for clean and precise echoes that stay crystal clear, making it perfect for modern mixes.

• 5 Delay Modes

When I want something warmer and more nostalgic, the Analog mode of DL3606 Delay nails that dark, mellow tone inspired by old-school bucket brigade delays. And then there’s the Tape mode, which captures all the richness and warmth of vintage tape machines, complete with that subtle saturation and flutter that adds so much vibe.

For grittier, raw textures, the Lo-Fi mode is incredible. It gives you this reduced bitrate, a dirty character that works wonders for lo-fi beats or adding a rough edge to any track.

Finally, the Reverse mode is my favorite for creating ambient, otherworldly effects. There’s something magical about hearing those backward echoes fill the space! It can completely transform a sound.

• Modulation Section

On top of the delay types, the modulation section adds so much life and movement. You can tweak the rate and depth of modulation and get immense flexibility from the Wet and Dry controls, giving you total freedom to find a suitable balance in the mix.

Whether I’m syncing to the track’s BPM for tight rhythmic delays or going freeform for something more organic, the DL3606 delivers every time.

• Photorealistic Interface

I should also mention the photorealistic interface that feels like working with a real pedal. It’s intuitive, straightforward, and visually satisfying.

Kuassa EFEKTOR DL3606 Delay is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats and is compatible with Windows Vista or higher (64-bit) and Mac OSX 10.11 or later operating systems. 

8. AAS Objeq Delay

For those looking to add to add unique delay effects from atmospheric layers to experimental or ambient effects, Objeq Delay is a great option delay plugin to explore with its high versatility and great presets.

Objeq Delay combines delay with physical modeling and lets you run your input signal through modeled objects like plates, drumheads, or beams before applying dual delays.

• Rich Preset Collection

The first thing I want to talk about this plugin is its preset collection. Its Echo category presets are great for adding tight, rhythmic delays with a ping-pong effect that widens the stereo image.

If I want something more experimental, the Funky Guitar Echo preset lets me shape the sound further by using the filter module to sculpt the frequencies or modulate the echoes for added movement.

One of the more extreme use cases I’ve explored is the Drone presets. These presets use maximum feedback, long decay times, and heavy modulation to create rich, sustained textures that almost feel like a living, breathing soundscape. It’s an incredible way to add atmospheric layers to a track, especially for genres like ambient or experimental music.

• Modulation-Based Effects

As a sound designer geek, I also love that I can create varying modulation-based effects like chorusing, flanging, and tremolo. By tweaking the LFO settings, you can dial in everything from subtle texture changes to wild, dynamic effects.

For example, with tight delays and fast modulation rates, I’ve been able to create lush chorus-like sounds that breathe life into otherwise static parts. Slower rates, on the other hand, result in dreamy, flanging effects that are well-suited for ambient or cinematic tracks.

It can transform simple patterns into complex, evolving textures when applied to drum loops. By adjusting the delay times and syncing them to different tempos, I’ve created some delay sequences that moved across the stereo field.

• Object Modeling

Add in the object modeling and LFO-driven modulation, and you can achieve everything from subtle tonal reinforcements to completely otherworldly, percussive soundscapes, which is an impressive range.

The plugin isn’t just about creative chaos but also a powerful tool for more practical applications. For example, when working on kick or snare tracks, Objeq Delay’s object modeling can reinforce specific frequencies to enhance the tone.

I often use it to tune the resonances of a drum or add subtle modulation to give the sound more presence and character. The ability to fine-tune parameters like decay, frequency, and modulation depth makes it an invaluable tool for shaping percussive elements in a mix.

AAS Objeq Delay is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats and is compatible with Windows 10 or higher (64-bit) and Mac OSX 10.13 or later operating systems. 

9. BLEASS Delay

BLEASS Delay is a whole new way to think about time-based effects with its innovative design and powerful effects.

• Intuitive Interface

Let’s start with its streamlined and intuitive interface, giving you access to all the powerful features without feeling cluttered or overwhelming. There’s just one screen to work with, but within that simplicity lies a playground of options that let you go from subtle enhancements to completely wild, unexpected effects.

• Standard Controls

At its core, BLEASS Delay offers standard controls like sync, feedback, and wet/dry balance, but you really start to juice it when you dive deeper.

• LFO Modulation and Stereo Controls

The LFO modulation lets you shape delay patterns into moving, evolving textures, while the Stereo controls create unique phase offsets that add width and depth to your sound.

• Shifter Section

And let’s not forget the Shifter section, which allows you to pitch your repeats up or down with cumulative shifts, resulting in cascading harmonics or otherworldly textures that feel alive.

• Filters

You also get access to high-pass and low-pass filters with resonance controls, which you can modulate for even more dynamic shaping. These aren’t just static EQ-like filters. They interact with your repeats in ways that bring movement and life to your tracks. The ability to assign modulation to just one filter at a time adds another layer of depth to the plugin.

One of my favorite aspects is how BLEASS Delay transforms even the simplest sounds. For example, I ran a straightforward synth lead through it, and with just a few tweaks, it became this lush, modulating sound with rhythmic shifts and subtle pitch variations. In some words, it sounded cool.

BLEASS Delay is available in VST and AU formats and is compatible with Windows, iOS, and Mac OSX operating systems. 

10. Baby Audio Comeback Kid

The Comeback Kid from Baby Audio can add a range of delay effects, from subtle reflections to vocal or crafting gritty, lo-fi echoes for guitars.

• 14 Shaping Knobs

The Comeback Kid interface is clean and intuitive, as there are no hidden menus or overwhelming options. You also get a set of 14 carefully crafted shaping knobs that make sculpting your delay effortless. From classic tape-style warmth to modern digital clarity or gritty lo-fi textures, it’s all within easy reach.

For instance, the Tape knob introduces a beautifully modeled analog saturation, while the Cheap mode lets you dive into nostalgic, 11-bit digital crunchiness for a retro vibe.

• Swirl and Sauce Features

I especially love the plugin’s Swirl and Sauce features. The Swirl adds an organic phasing effect, which gives movement to your delays, and the Sauce knob integrates a lush algorithmic reverb that can diffuse your echoes into dreamy, atmospheric trails.

• Wider and Richer Controls

These features are perfect for crafting delays that feel alive and immersive. The Wider and Richer controls add even more depth, either by widening the stereo image or introducing subtle pitch shifts between the left and right channels for an expansive, lush sound.

For more practical uses, the Ducker is a lifesaver in busy mixes, ducking the delay when the dry signal plays so your main track stays clear while the echoes shine in the gaps. Whether you’re cleaning up the low end or darkening the repeats for a vintage feel, the filters are incredibly flexible.

• Destiny Knob

Another standout in Comeback Kid is the Destiny knob, which introduces a subtle randomness to the delay, making it feel more human and less robotic. It’s a small detail, but one that can breathe life into your mixes.

Add to that the classic Ping-Pong mode and precise tempo-syncing (or free-form adjustments down to 0.01 ms), and you’ve got a tool that can handle everything from tight slapback delays to sprawling rhythmic echoes.

• Transient Controls

For sound designers and experimental producers, its transient controls (Attack and Sustain) allow you to shape how the delay reacts to your input signal, opening up creative possibilities for unique rhythmic effects. Plus, you can completely bypass the delay engine and use the plugin as a multi-effects processor to add character to your dry signal.

• 60 Presets

With over 60 expertly designed presets from top producers, you can dive right in and find inspiration for any track. Whether you’re working on pop vocals, cinematic soundscapes, or lo-fi beats, there’s something here to spark ideas.

Baby Audio Comeback Kid is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats and is compatible with Windows 10 or higher (64-bit) and Mac OSX 10.11 or later operating systems. 

11. United Plugins Pluralis

The final unit on the list is a different delay plugin with its unique approach. Pluralis uses a unique signal-splitting algorithm by dividing the signal into Mid/Side, Left/Right, Low/High, and Quiet/Loud, allowing separation by channels, frequencies, and volumes.

• Dual-Processing

This 2-delay and dual-processing approach gives you two fully adjustable delay engines to tweak to your heart’s content. Each delay comes with controls for time, feedback, saturation (via the Color dial), and filtering, allowing you to shape the tone and character of your delays with precision.

• Modulation Section

Its built-in modulation section adds even more creative depth with adjustable parameters for level, rate, feedback, and dispersion. One standout feature is how seamlessly Pluralis integrates advanced functionality with an easy-to-navigate interface.

• Filters Section

The visual layout makes it simple to understand what’s happening with your signal, from the split type to modulation settings. The built-in filters are another highlight, offering low-pass and high-pass options with fully adjustable ranges.

• Freeze Function

The Freeze function is another fun addition, locking the delay signal in place for creative looping effects. And if you prefer wide, immersive soundscapes, Pluralis includes dispersion options that add stereo width and depth to your delays. While the plugin is packed with features, it doesn’t overwhelm. Pluralism comes with a variety of thoughtfully designed presets to help you dive in and explore.

• Smart Bypass and Intelligent Sleep Mode

From a practical standpoint, the delay machine is as polished as it is innovative. Its smart bypass ensures smooth transitions with no clicks or latency issues, while intelligent sleep mode saves CPU when no processing is needed.

United Plugins Pluralis is available in VST, VST3, AU, and AAX formats and is compatible with Windows 8 or higher (64-bit) and Mac OSX 10.10 (Yosemite) or later operating systems.