Score

The MXR M169 Carbon Copy Analog Delay achieves a high score due to its warm, rich analog sound and user-friendly design, making it a favorite among musicians for versatile delay effects. However, some customers noted concerns with modulation subtlety and occasional issues with noise and reliability, hinting at variability in quality. Overall, its great tonal qualities combined with durable construction offer significant value for its price point.

9.1/10
Expert
7.05/10
Consumer

Pros

  • •Known for its warm sound and vintage characteristics.
  • •True hardwire bypass ensures no tone loss.
  • •Modulation effects add a unique texture to delays.
  • •Compact design makes it easy to fit on pedalboards.
  • •Delay times range from 20 ms to 600 ms, offering a wide variety of delay lengths.
  • •Frequently mentioned by notable users like John Mayer and Dave Gilmour.
  • •Excels at producing analog delay sounds that many digital pedals can't replicate.

Cons

  • •Some users might find the modulation feature unnecessary or difficult to use effectively.
  • •Analog design might not appeal to those seeking modern, digital flexibility.
  • •May have a steeper learning curve for beginners due to the range of controls and settings.

Bottom Line

The MXR M169 Carbon Copy Analog Delay is a fantastic choice for guitarists seeking authentic, warm analog delay tones with a vintage flair. Its true hardwire bypass and modulation effects provide versatility and high-quality sound cherished by renowned musicians. While it might not be the first choice for those looking for digital flexibility or those new to delay pedals, its superior analog sound makes it a worthy addition to any pedalboard.

Product Score

Based on professional reviews and customer feedback

8.07/10
Overall
9.1
Expert
7.05
Consumer

Why this score?

The MXR M169 Carbon Copy Analog Delay achieves a high score due to its warm, rich analog sound and user-friendly design, making it a favorite among musicians for versatile delay effects. However, some customers noted concerns with modulation subtlety and occasional issues with noise and reliability, hinting at variability in quality. Overall, its great tonal qualities combined with durable construction offer significant value for its price point.

8+ Excellent
6-8 Good
4-6 Average
<4 Poor
Lowest at Amazon
$149.99 at Amazon
How we researched this

About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from 2 retailers to give you the short version.

Where to Buy

Prices last updated: October 9th 2026 12:29 am
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More Answers

If you're still curious about the MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay Pedal, here are some other answers you might find interesting:

🎛️

Is the MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay true bypass?

Q&A
Published: May 3rd, 2024

Yep, the MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay is a true bypass pedal. This means that when you switch it off, it won't mess with your guitar signal—your tone stays just as it is. That's straight from the manufacturer's product description.

Now, about the mono output: the Carbon Copy is set up for mono, not stereo. It’s got a single 1/4-inch input and output, focusing on a mono signal to give you those classic, rich delay tones.

But what it lacks in stereo, it makes up for with its warm, lush delays. You get up to 600 milliseconds of delay time, thanks to the bucket brigade circuitry. It's easy to use with three knobs for delay time, mix, and regeneration, plus a modulation button for a bit of a chorus vibe. Our research shows it's super popular with musicians who need a solid mono delay.

If stereo is a must for you, you might have to get creative. Some folks use additional gear like stereo splitting boxes or even two of these pedals to get a stereo effect. So, it's possible if you're willing to experiment a bit.

For those who can't do without stereo, you might want to check out alternatives like the [Eventide TimeFactor](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amaz

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The MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay pedal is pretty famous for its warm and rich analog delay sounds. It works with bucket-brigade technology, giving you delay times up to 600ms. This means you can create anything from quick, punchy 'slapback' echoes to larger, more atmospheric delays.

From what we've found, people really love the nostalgic and lush tones the Carbon Copy offers. It's also got a solid build. There are just three knobs to mess with: delay time, mix, and regeneration, which makes it simple and appealing for those who want that classic analog vibe without the complexity.

Now, about that modulation feature—it's a neat addition that adds a tape-like warble to your echoes, kind of like old-school tape delays. You can adjust this modulation effect with some internal trim pots. However, keep in mind that you'll have to open up the pedal to do this, which isn't as convenient as just turning a knob on the outside.

While many folks rave about the pedal, there are a few things to keep in mind. According to our research, some people aren't thrilled with the modulation's accessibility and mention that the delay repeats can sound a bit dark. This might be a downside for you if you

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The MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay pedal has a pretty decent delay time range. According to the manufacturer's description, you can set it anywhere from 20 to 600 milliseconds. So, whether you need a quick slap-back delay or a longer, atmospheric echo, this pedal has got you covered.

The pedal also includes a cool modulation feature. It's supposed to give your sound a bit of that old-school tape echo vibe by adding a subtle pitch shift. You can turn this on with the 'MOD' switch, and if you're into tinkering, there are internal trim pots to tweak the width and speed of the modulation.

Just a heads up though—you'll need to remove the base plate to get to them.

From what we've gathered, people really like the warm and rich tones that this modulation brings to the delay. It seems to work well for everything from classic rock and blues to more experimental music.

So, if you're looking for a pedal that offers a wide range of delay options and some vintage-inspired modulation, the Carbon Copy is worth checking out.

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