The Legend Returns: Keeley RK2000 Funk Siren Delay
Experience the legendary DM2000 rack tones with the Keeley RK2000 Funk Siren Delay. Features 12-bit grit, freeze-hold textures, MIDI, and stereo ping-pong modes.
The rack-mount era of the 1980s was a golden age for digital delay, defined by a specific "grit" that modern, ultra-clean processors often miss. Chief among these legends was the 1983 DM2000, a unit famously weaponized by Trey Anastasio to create the iconic "Funk Siren" textures.
Now, Keeley Electronics has shrunk that massive rack unit into a pedalboard-friendly powerhouse: the RK2000 Funk Siren. This isn't just a tribute; it’s a 12-bit workstation designed to bridge the gap between vintage character and modern control.
The 12-Bit Soul: Why the RK2000 Stands Out
Most modern delays strive for 24-bit transparency. The RK2000 goes the other way, faithfully recreating the 12-bit architecture of the original DM2000. This results in repeats that have a musical, slightly grainy texture—perfect for sitting in a mix without being "sterile."
Whether you’re chasing the "Funk Siren" or looking for lo-fi tape echoes, the RK2000 delivers a sonic palette that feels alive.
Key Performance Features:
- Freeze-Hold Mastery: The dedicated Hold footswitch allows you to capture a momentary slice of sound and sustain it indefinitely. You can play over the top of the frozen pad or twist the controls to warp the "stuck" audio into psychedelic soundscapes.
- Expansive Modulation: Move from subtle doubling and liquid chorus to frantic flanging and deep-diving pitch vibratos.
- True Stereo Versatility: With Normal and Ping-Pong modes, your delays can bounce across the stereo field, adding massive width to your rig.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Circuitry | 12-bit Digital Delay (DM2000 Inspired) |
| Bypass | Selectable True or Buffered |
| Presets | 2 Onboard / 72 via MIDI |
| Inputs/Outputs | Stereo Out (Wet/Dry or Wet-only), Expression Input |
| Switching | Soft-touch relay / Tap Tempo |
| Manufacturing | Made in Oklahoma, USA |
Deep Dive: Control and Connectivity
Keeley didn't just stop at the vintage sound; they packed the RK2000 with "pro-grade" utility. The top-mounted jacks save precious pedalboard real estate, while MIDI compatibility allows for up to 72 presets—a must-have for touring musicians who need specific delay times for every song in the set.
The control set is intuitive yet deep:
- Filter: Shapes the tone of the repeats, from dark and analog-like to crisp digital.
- Rate/Depth: Governs the movement of the modulation.
- Input: Allows you to gain-stage the pedal perfectly for different instruments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the RK2000 only for Phish/Trey Anastasio fans?
Absolutely not. While it nails the "Funk Siren" sound, its 12-bit texture and freeze functions make it a premier choice for ambient, shoegaze, lo-fi, and experimental electronic music.
Can I use an expression pedal with it?
Yes. The RK2000 features an expression control input, allowing you to manipulate parameters like Delay Time or Feedback on the fly for expressive, manual "warping" effects.
Does it support trail bypass?
Yes. By selecting Buffered Bypass, your delay repeats will trail off naturally when you switch the pedal off, rather than being cut off abruptly.
What power does it require?
The RK2000 runs on a standard 9V DC center-negative power supply. (Always check the current draw requirements in the manual for your specific power brick).
The Verdict
Pros:
- Incredible Texture: The 12-bit grit is authentic and highly musical.
- Creative Powerhouse: The Hold function turns the pedal into a performance instrument.
- Rig-Ready: MIDI, Stereo I/O, and Presets make it a professional-tier tool.
- Build Quality: Solidly built in the USA with soft-touch switching.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: With 72 MIDI presets and deep modulation, it takes a moment to master.
- Size: While smaller than a rack unit, it’s a "double-wide" pedal footprint.
Final Thought
The Keeley RK2000 Funk Siren is a masterclass in "vintage-modern" design. It captures a specific era of digital history that was previously lost to bulky rack units and brings it to the modern era with MIDI, tap tempo, and stereo depth. If you want a delay that does more than just repeat your notes—a pedal that actually collaborates with your playing—this is it.
Rating: 8.5/10
Where To Buy
Available at Andertons Available at Guitar Center Available at Sweetwater Available at Thomann
MSRP - $369.99
