For years, I foolishly overlooked one of the most iconic effects in rock history. I always thought of it as an old-fashioned, dated sound. It was certainly not young and hip like I was then (lol).
I was wrong. And to anyone who knows me, that’s certainly no surprise.
As I explored the world of guitar effects, I encountered this classic sound repeatedly. It’s not just another effect; it’s the sound that has shaped rock and roll since its inception: slapback delay.
So, what is slapback delay?
In this guide, we’ll explore the distinct sound of slapback, its impact on music, and why it remains a treasured tool for guitarists chasing that authentic, retro vibe.
Table of Contents
What is Slapback Delay?
Slapback delay is a delay effect that has been a staple in music, since the 1950s. It’s characterized by a short, single-repeat echo (it sounds like ta-DACK, with ta being the original note and DACK being the echo). This slapback effect adds depth and dimension to music, particularly in rockabilly and early pop genres.
At its core, slapback delay is a simple technique. It repeats the original sound with a very short delay—usually between 60 and 120 milliseconds. This quick repeat creates a doubling effect that thickens the audio, enhancing it without introducing muddiness.
The History of Slapback Delay
In 1954, slapback delay was born in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. Sam Phillips, who was the producer and founder of Sun Records—a small, independent label that would go on to launch the careers of some of the biggest names in music—harnessed a technique that would shape the course of popular music.
Using Ampex 350 tape recorders [1], Sam Phillips created and popularized the slapback echo effect.
Picture of Sam Phillips
Sun Records: How Slapback Started
Slapback delay quickly became the trademark sound of Sun Records studio, and there’s an interesting story behind its creation. The studio itself was small and acoustically “dead,” offering little natural reverb or echo.
To overcome this, Sam Phillips began experimenting with a new technique in 1954, using two state-of-the-art Ampex 350 tape recorders. By recording the sound on one tape machine while simultaneously capturing the playback on another, Phillips created a slight delay—caused by the physical space between the machines’ heads—that resulted in a short, snappy echo.
This effect, now known as slapback delay, added depth and rhythmic bounce to vocals and instruments, injecting liveliness and energy that the room itself couldn’t provide. Phillips perfected this unique sound, which became the secret behind the success of rock ‘n’ roll pioneers like Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash.
Picture of Sun Records
Slapback Delay and Rockabilly
As the 1950s progressed, slapback delay quickly became part of the rockabilly sound. Slapback’s short, rapid echoes completely complemented the vibrant twang of electric guitars and the percussive slap of upright basses.
However, the influence of slapback delay extends well beyond its origins at Sun Records. It has been used by artists ranging from The Beatles to modern pop producers, making it a staple in music production and a lasting element of guitar effects.
Dialing in the Perfect Slapback Delay Sound
While slapback delay is traditionally achieved using tape delay, you can create this effect with almost any type of delay pedal. The key is to set a short delay time with minimal feedback, resulting in that signature single, quick echo.
To get that classic slapback delay sound, set your delay time between 60 and 120 milliseconds with just a little feedback. You want to dial in enough feedback to get a single repeat.
The goal is to create a quick, subtle echo that thickens your tone, adding depth and presence without it becoming “too much.” This is ideal for giving your riffs and leads a vintage, rockabilly vibe and thickness.
Make sure to experiment with the delay time to find the sweet spot that fits the tempo and feel of your music.
It’s Not Just For Rockabilly
Slapback delay is almost always associated with the rockabilly and early rock ‘n’ roll sounds of the 1950s, but its use extends far beyond these genres.
In country music, slapback delay is often used to add a twang to chicken-picking guitar licks. Indie rock artists repeatedly combine slapback with reverb to create a dreamy, atmospheric tone. In blues, slapback delay is used to thicken single-note runs, simulating (or enhancing) the warm, resonant qualities of vintage tube amplifiers.
But it goes even further than that. Slapback delay can also be found in modern pop, subtly improving the tone of various instruments, guitars, and vocals.
To Sum Up
There’s no denying that slapback delay has left its mark on music, from 1950s rock ‘n’ roll all the way to modern music and pop.
Even though it’s often associated with vintage tones, it’s surprisingly versatile and can add depth and character to all types of music.
Personally, I think a good slapback delay can really bring your guitar tone to life, giving it a nice, rhythmic feel that stands out. It took me a long time to discover what slapback delay is, but I’m glad I did.
FAQs
What is slapback delay used for?
Slapback delay is used to create a quick, single echo that adds depth and a sense of space to your sound. It’s often used in rockabilly, country, and blues to give guitar tones a punchier, more percussive feel. The short delay time adds a subtle but noticeable bounce, making it great for rhythm playing or leads that need a bit of extra presence.
What delay setting is country slapback?
A classic country slapback delay setting typically features a short delay time of around 80 to 120 milliseconds, with minimal repeats—usually just one. The mix level should be set so the delayed signal is audible but not overpowering, creating a quick, subtle echo that gives your tone that signature country bounce without muddying the original signal.
