Echo is a type of delay effect that creates a repeating reflection of the original sound, mimicking the natural phenomenon of sound bouncing back from a surface. In music, an echo effect repeats the sound at a set time interval, creating a sense of space and depth in the mix. The repeats gradually fade away, depending on the settings of the feedback control, allowing musicians to add texture and dimension to their performance.

Echo effects can range from subtle, short delays that add warmth to more pronounced, long repeats that create a pronounced “slapback” or “spacey” feel. Many echo pedals allow users to control parameters such as delay time, feedback, and mix, giving players the ability to fine-tune their sound. Well-known echo pedals like the Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail, Boss RE-20 Space Echo, and MXR Carbon Copy are highly regarded for their ability to produce rich, clear echoes with a vintage feel.