Donner Echo Square, Wave, & Yellow Fall Delay Pedals: A Detailed Review

This review dives deep into Donner's trio of delay pedals: the Echo Square, Wave, and Yellow Fall. Each pedal offers a unique sonic character and build quality, making them compelling options for guitarists of all levels. We'll explore the distinct features of each, comparing their functionality, sound profiles, and overall usability within a typical pedalboard setup. From the multi-mode versatility of the Echo Square to the warm analog tones of the Yellow Fall, and the hybrid digital/analog capabilities of the Wave, we’ll determine which pedal best suits different playing styles and preferences.Our comprehensive review will cover the ease of use, durability, and sound quality of each pedal, backed by demonstrations showcasing their individual capabilities and potential for creative sonic layering. We’ll assess their value proposition, considering their robust construction and diverse tonal options within their respective price points. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a clear understanding of what each Donner delay pedal brings to the table, helping you decide which one best fits your needs and musical aspirations.

Pros And Cons

Donner Yellow Fall
  • Solid metal chassis
  • Heavy duty switching
  • Analog or tape-sounding echo
Donner Wave
  • Delay time, feedback, and level controls
  • Digital and warm (analog-like) sound modes
Donner Echo Square
  • Seven mode digital delay
  • Super hard steel casing
  • High quality switching

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Donner Echo Square Delay Pedal

The Donner Echo Square is a standout digital delay pedal. Its robust, all-metal construction makes it incredibly durable, a must-have for gigging musicians. With seven different delay modes, including modulation and digital options, there's a sound for every style.

Close-up of the Donner Echo Square pedal
Close-up of the Donner Echo Square pedal

The user-friendly interface is a big plus. It offers a straightforward way to adjust delay time and feedback, and its high-quality switching ensures reliable performance. It operates on a standard 9V negative center pin power supply, making it easy to integrate into any pedalboard setup.

Echo Square pedal with various delay modes displayed
Echo Square pedal with various delay modes displayed

Donner Wave Delay Pedal

The Donner Wave offers a unique blend of digital and analog sounds. The digital mode provides crisp, clear delays, while the warm mode adds a touch of vintage character, reminiscent of classic tape delays. It's versatile enough for a wide range of musical genres.

Close-up of the Donner Wave pedal
Close-up of the Donner Wave pedal

This pedal allows granular control over delay time, feedback, and level. A simple switch toggles between the digital and warm modes, making it easy to experiment with different delay tones. This pedal also runs off a 9V negative center pin power supply.

Donner Wave pedal showing the digital/warm mode switch
Donner Wave pedal showing the digital/warm mode switch

Donner Yellow Fall Delay Pedal

The Donner Yellow Fall is a solid-state delay pedal with a heavy-duty metal chassis. Its controls are simple but effective, offering direct control over delay time, echo amount, and feedback. The result is a rich, warm delay that evokes the tone of a vintage spring reverb.

Close-up of the Donner Yellow Fall pedal
Close-up of the Donner Yellow Fall pedal

This pedal is visually striking and built to last. It's easy to dial in the perfect delay settings, and it blends seamlessly into any pedalboard. The rugged construction ensures this pedal will stand up to the rigors of frequent use.

Donner Yellow Fall pedal controls highlighted
Donner Yellow Fall pedal controls highlighted

Pedalboard Application and Sound Comparisons

The video demonstrates each pedal's capabilities in a pedalboard setup. Each pedal is capable of creating unique soundscapes through its various modes and feedback loops. This showcases the versatility of the pedals and shows how their distinct sounds can complement each other.

All three pedals on a pedalboard setup
All three pedals on a pedalboard setup
Echo Square pedal in use
Echo Square pedal in use

The Echo Square stands out with its numerous delay modes, making it exceptionally versatile. The Wave shines with its ability to switch between digital clarity and warm analog tones. The Yellow Fall provides a slightly darker, more vintage-sounding delay.

Wave pedal in use
Wave pedal in use
Yellow Fall pedal in use
Yellow Fall pedal in use

Conclusion and Overall Impressions

All three Donner delay pedals offer excellent value for their price point. Each pedal boasts durable construction and a variety of tones, making them suitable for a range of musical styles. The Echo Square offers the most diverse range of delay types, while the Wave provides a flexible blend of digital and analog sounds.

Final shot of all three pedals together
Final shot of all three pedals together

The Yellow Fall provides a unique, tape-style delay. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you're looking for a versatile workhorse, the Echo Square is hard to beat. If you want a simple analog-style delay, the Yellow Fall is a solid pick. The Wave offers a good compromise between both.