It’s an age-old debate that continues to divide musicians and producers: analogue vs digital guitar effects. Does analogue truly deliver a warmth and character that digital can’t replicate? Or have digital effects come so far that their convenience, flexibility, and quality make them the obvious choice?
While working on my latest sample pack, Vintage Vibe Guitar Loops, I wanted to put this question to the test. So, I processed the loops with some classic vintage gear: the Behringer 636 Spring Reverb and an Akai X360D Reel-to-Reel tape recorder—the latter used as a tape delay.
How I Used Analogue FX in My Workflow
To create the tape delay effect, I routed audio from my DAW through a hardware mixing desk into the Akai tape machine. By putting the tape recorder into record mode and then sending the signal back into the desk, the slightly delayed tape output naturally created a slapback effect.
Want even more delay character? You can feed that delayed signal back into the tape machine in a feedback loop, creating some really lush and unpredictable textures.
Analogue vs Digital FX: Hear the Difference
I’ve just released a new video comparing guitar samples processed with digital vs analogue effects—specifically spring reverb and tape delay. You’ll hear the same loops treated with both types of effects, so you can decide which sound speaks to you.
🎥 Watch the video and decide for yourself: does analogue really sound better, or has digital caught up?
If you enjoy the vibe of the video and the tones you hear, you can grab the Vintage Vibe sample pack over at Tangerine Sounds.
Save Up to 25% with the Guitar & Keys Bundle
Want to bundle the magic? Pick up both Vintage Vibe and Lo-Fi Keys in the Guitar & Keys Bundle and save up to 25%. It’s a great way to instantly add some soulful, lo-fi textures to your productions.
Don’t Miss Your FREE Sounds
While you’re there, don’t forget to grab your FREE Lo-Fi Essentials sample pack—packed with drum loops, guitars, keys, and more to jumpstart your next track. You’ll also find a FREE Virtual Instrument waiting for you too.
🚨 But hurry—Lo-Fi Essentials won’t be free for much longer!
A Little Favour?
If you’ve enjoyed my content—whether it’s the sample packs, YouTube videos, or email tips—I’d really appreciate it if you could give me a follow over on Instagram.
Believe it or not, less than a third of my YouTube and mailing list subscribers are following me there. Let’s fix that! Come hang out and stay up to date with new releases, behind-the-scenes content, and more.
Thanks so much—and happy producing!
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