Ibanez has officially announced the Layer Delayer, a powerhouse stereo delay pedal designed to replace entire rows of echo units on modern pedalboards. Combining vintage soul with digital precision, this multifunctional stompbox aims to be the definitive “all-in-one” solution for guitarists, synth players, and studio engineers alike.
With an MSRP of $279.99, the Layer Delayer enters a competitive market but stands out with a unique architecture that allows users to sculpt individual repeats with unprecedented granular control.
One Pedal, Infinite Echoes
The Layer Delayer features three distinct core engines: Tape, Analog, and Digital. Whether you are looking for the saturated warble of a vintage reel-to-reel, the dark bucket-brigade warmth of a classic analog circuit, or the pristine, high-fidelity repeats of a modern digital processor, the Layer Delayer delivers with “fast-tracking audio authenticity.”
The Ibanez Layer Delayer is a revolutionary leap in time-based effects, redefining what a delay pedal can achieve. Moving far beyond the limitations of traditional tape echoes, this innovative unit generates 16th-note and triplet delay signals, each equipped with independent volume controls. This unique architecture empowers you to design intricate rhythmic patterns and complex sonic textures that standard pedals simply cannot replicate.
To further refine your sound, the Tone and Filter controls provide deep sculpting capabilities—allowing you to transition from subtle, vintage warmth to aggressive, saturated distortion. The inclusion of a dedicated FX Loop expands your creative horizons even further, letting you insert external effects directly into the delay chain for truly personalized echoes.
Layer Delayer App
For those who demand precision, the Layer Delayer App offers a comprehensive digital command center. By connecting to your PC, you gain granular control over nearly every internal parameter, along with the ability to:
-
Import and Export Presets: Back up your signature sounds or share them with other users.
-
Edit Global Settings: Fine-tune the pedal’s behavior to match your specific rig.
-
Deep-Dive Parameter Editing: Access hidden layers of tone-shaping not available on the physical interface.
Whether you are a guitarist, bassist, keyboardist, or producer, the Layer Delayer is built to help you forge a distinct sonic identity. It is more than just a pedal; it is an invitation to explore the next frontier of your musical journey.
Precision Sculpting and “Bank” Control
What truly sets this pedal apart is its innovative bank of independent delay signal controls. Unlike traditional pedals that offer a single volume for all repeats, the Layer Delayer provides individual volume sliders for each subdivision (1/16ths or triplets).
This allows musicians to create bespoke rhythmic patterns and atmospheric soundscapes by emphasizing specific repeats or adding up to a +3dB boost to individual notes.
Professional Connectivity and Integration
Designed for the modern rig, the Layer Delayer is more than just a stompbox. It includes:
-
Stereo I/O: Full spatial control with 8 auto-panning modes.
-
FX Loop: Insert external pedals (like chorus or pitch-shifters) directly into the delay path.
-
MIDI In/Thru: Full real-time parameter control and preset switching.
-
USB-C: Future-proofed for firmware updates and digital management.
MIDI
Seamlessly integrate the Layer Delayer into any complex rig with full MIDI implementation. Beyond simply switching presets, you can map a MIDI controller to manipulate every onboard parameter in real-time. Additionally, the pedal supports MIDI Clock Sync, ensuring your delay times stay perfectly locked to the tempo of your DAW, sequencer, or drum machine.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Delay Time | 40ms – 1,500ms |
| Modes | Tape, Analog, Digital |
| Presets | 50 Total (20 Factory / 30 User) |
| Power/Level | Line/Instrument Switchable |
| Control I/O | MIDI In/Thru, USB-C, FX Loop |
| MSRP | $279.99 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the “Layer” control different from standard delay pedals?
Most pedals treat repeats as a single decaying signal. The Layer Delayer allows you to control the volume of individual 16th notes or triplets. This means you can “mix” your rhythmic pattern, making the third repeat louder than the first, or creating complex syncopations that aren’t possible on standard units.
Can I use the Ibanez Layer Delayer with synthesizers or line-level gear?
Yes. Thanks to the dedicated Line/Instrument level switch, you can easily integrate this pedal into a studio desktop setup or a synth rig without worrying about headroom issues or signal clipping.
Does it feature “Trails” mode?
Yes. The Tail Decay control allows you to customize how your echoes fade out. You can set it so that the delay signal continues to decay naturally even after you have switched the effect off.
How do I update the firmware?
The pedal features a USB-C port, enabling quick, easy firmware updates to keep the device compatible with the latest Ibanez software and feature improvements.
Conclusion: The Only Delay You’ll Ever Need?
The Ibanez Layer Delayer successfully bridges the gap between boutique “tweakability” and stage-ready simplicity. By offering 50 recallable presets and a massive range of tonal shaping via its dual-parameter filters and independent volume banks, it effectively eliminates the need for multiple delay units.
Whether you are a shoegaze architect or a blues-rock traditionalist, the Layer Delayer provides the tools to sculpt your perfect echo.
Price & Availability
Available at Andertons, priced £219
Available at Sweetwater, priced $279.99
More Information
#Ibanez #Layer Delayer
This article may contain affiliate links to Andertons, DeathCloud, Donner, Fender, Gear4Music, Positive Grid, Sweetwater, and Thomann that help finance the running costs of GuitarBomb. We will receive a small commission if you buy something through these links. Don’t worry; you pay the same price, and it costs you no extra to use these affiliate links for your purchases.
