MusicRadar Verdict
Concentrating on just three extremely usable delay types, the Duck Tail offers simplicity of operation combined with classy sound.
Pros
- +
Three types of delay in one box. Very playable Duck mode.
Cons
- -
Nothing.
MusicRadar's got your back
The Duck Tail offers what T-Rex calls its classic delay pedal sound, plus a very tasty tape delay emulation, but it gets its name from the ducking delay mode that keeps the delay in the background for a less cluttered sound.
Sounds
In Duck mode, you control the amount of delay you get via picking dynamics - a light attack gives you a full delay but you get less delay if you pick harder, while a sensitivity knob sets it up to suit your playing. This is beautifully implemented and lets you 'play' the delays, with the repeats clearly coming in during quiet passages.
Trevor Curwen has played guitar for several decades – he's also mimed it on the UK's Top of the Pops. Much of his working life, though, has been spent behind the mixing desk, during which time he has built up a solid collection of the guitars, amps and pedals needed to cover just about any studio session. He writes pedal reviews for Guitarist and has contributed to Total Guitar, MusicRadar and Future Music among others.

“I have to try and talk about the neck without sounding offensive or angry”: Johnny Marr says satin finishes have no business being on a guitar neck

“I don’t know why I’m apologising for Korg on their behalf…”: There’s a lot we love about Korg’s latest DIY synth – but it has one significant problem for owners of the original

"You'll never read a manual again": How AI can help you learn to use your gear and instruments