Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Memory Man

The Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Memory Man, introduced in 1980, is one of the most iconic analog delay pedals in music history. Building on the success of the original Memory Man (1976), the Deluxe version added features like extended delay times (up to 550ms), a dedicated modulation section with chorus and vibrato, and a preamp level control. Using Bucket Brigade Device (BBD) technology, the pedal delivered warm, organic repeats with a signature modulation that mimicked the "wow and flutter" of tape delays. Its versatility made it a favorite for creating lush echoes, spatial effects, and modulated textures. Despite its bulky size and unique power requirements, the Deluxe Memory Man remains highly sought after and has been reissued multiple times.

Historical Development

• Origins (1980): The Deluxe Memory Man expanded on the original by incorporating an internal LFO for pitch modulation, making it capable of producing chorus and vibrato effects alongside delay.
• Design: With controls for Blend, Feedback, Delay, Chorus/Vibrato, and a preamp level knob, it allowed musicians to craft everything from subtle slapback to ambient soundscapes.
• Legacy: The pedal has been reissued in various forms, including compact models like the XO series and modern recreations such as the Memory Man 1100-TT.

Notable Players

• The Edge (U2): Used it extensively on early U2 albums like War and The Joshua Tree, particularly for rhythmic delay patterns on tracks like "Sunday Bloody Sunday."
• Robert Smith (The Cure): Incorporated it into his guitar tones for atmospheric and modulated effects.
• Ed O'Brien (Radiohead): Known for using it to create expansive textures in Radiohead's music.
• Chris Cornell (Soundgarden): Used it for its warm delay and modulation capabilities.

Popular Settings

The Deluxe Memory Man's simple yet powerful controls enable a range of effects:

• Classic Delay: Blend at noon, Feedback at 10:00, Delay at 2:00 for warm, rhythmic repeats.
• Chorus-Like Modulation: Chorus/Vibrato switch set to Chorus, Depth at 3:00, Delay at minimum for lush modulation.
• Self-Oscillation: Feedback maxed out with Delay adjusted for experimental cascading echoes.

Legacy

The Electro-Harmonix Deluxe Memory Man is celebrated as one of the most influential analog delay pedals ever made. Its warm tone, rich modulation, and versatility have made it a staple across genres like rock, post-punk, and ambient music. Revered by legendary players such as The Edge and Robert Smith, its timeless sound continues to inspire musicians through vintage units and modern reissues.