EHX Deluxe Memory Man vs TC Electronic Alter Ego V2
The Memory Man wins for the genuine BBD analog warmth and the unique chorus modulation built into every repeat. The Alter Ego wins for longer delay times, more algorithm variety and the TonePrint customisation system.
EHX Deluxe Memory Man
The original and definitive analog delay with built-in chorus/vibrato — the BBD repeats carry a shimmer of chorus modulation that is unique to this circuit. Used by David Gilmour and The Edge to create classic atmospheric delay tones that have never been accurately replicated digitally.
Classic rock, ambient, and Pink Floyd-inspired players who want the warm, chorused analog delay character unique to the Memory Man circuit
TC Electronic Alter Ego V2
TC Electronic's vintage-voiced delay — 11 delay types including tape, analog, and vintage digital simulations, plus a TonePrint slot. Focuses on warmer, more characterful delay tones rather than pristine digital transparency.
Players who want warm, vintage-voiced digital delay with the flexibility of TonePrint presets — particularly those who reference classic tape and analog delay sounds
Tone Character
EHX Deluxe Memory Man
- ✓ Unique built-in chorus/vibrato on repeats
- ✓ Warm BBD analog character
- ✓ Chorus mode adds independent chorus effect
- ✓ Legendary tone used on seminal recordings
- ✗ Maximum 550ms delay time
- ✗ Noise floor higher than modern digital alternatives
- ✗ Large pedal format
TC Electronic Alter Ego V2
- ✓ 11 delay types with vintage character focus
- ✓ TonePrint for downloadable artist presets
- ✓ Warmer character than standard digital delays
- ✓ Affordable for its feature set
- ✓ True bypass
- ✗ Some delay types less convincing than dedicated analog/tape pedals
- ✗ Discontinued — used market only
- ✗ TonePrint requires app for full preset range
When To Choose Each
Players who want authentic analog delay with the unique Memory Man chorus-on-repeats character — no digital pedal replicates it exactly.
Players who want analog character with more delay time and TonePrint flexibility for additional algorithm options.
Final Verdict — EHX Deluxe Memory Man vs TC Electronic Alter Ego V2
Best for beginners
TC Electronic Alter Ego V2
TC Electronic Alter Ego V2 scores higher on versatility (78/100) and lower on gain (0/100) — a more forgiving starting point than EHX Deluxe Memory Man.
Best for metal tones
EHX Deluxe Memory Man
EHX Deluxe Memory Man leads on gain (0/100) and bass response (55/100) — the two tonal pillars of metal playing.
Best value
TC Electronic Alter Ego V2
At £149 vs £179, TC Electronic Alter Ego V2 delivers 17% cost savings. The tonal trade-off is meaningful.
Specification Summary
| EHX Deluxe Memory Man | TC Electronic Alter Ego V2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £179 | £149 |
| Category | Delay | Delay |
| Gain | 0/100 | 0/100 |
| Warmth | 72/100 | 65/100 |
| Treble | 50/100 | 52/100 |
| Bass | 55/100 | 55/100 |
| Versatility | 60/100 | 78/100 |
| Best for | Classic rock, ambient, and Pink Floyd-inspired players who want the warm, chorused analog delay character unique to the Memory Man circuit | Players who want warm, vintage-voiced digital delay with the flexibility of TonePrint presets |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Chorus modulation built into the delay — every repeat has a shimmer that's unique to the BBD circuit. Cannot be faithfully replicated.
Memory Man: 550ms. Alter Ego: 2000ms. Clear winner for long atmospheric delays is Alter Ego.
Memory Man — Gilmour used a Binson Echorec, and the Memory Man's warm analog character is the closest practical alternative.
Yes — it has an analog mode. Convincing but not identical to a real BBD chip.