The circa 1980 Electro-Harmonix Attack Decay is a sought-after prize among vintage pedal aficionad...The circa 1980 Electro-Harmonix Attack Decay is a sought-after prize among vintage pedal aficionados. Originally called a Tape Reverse Simulator, it’s known for producing volume and reverse swells, backward tape sounds, artificially short staccato notes, and bowed instrument effects. The freshly designed Electro-Harmonix Attack Decay Tape Reverse Simulator Guitar Pedal reinterprets the classic and keeps its cool factor, but adds some modern features for convenience and enhanced functionality. VolumeIt can produce a single volume envelope like the original, or, with Poly engaged, put separate volume envelopes on each note you play. The built-in Harmonix fuzz is now a fully controllable distortion with gain, tone, and volume controls. The effects loop allows the musician or sound designer to place the volume envelope onto whatever signal is present at the Return jack. Expression pedal/CV input and three users presets give the user total control over their Attack Decay.
This guide is for guitarists and sound designers looking to create unique volume swells, reverse effects, and textured sounds with the Electro-Harmonix Attack Decay pedal. The Attack Decay reinterprets a vintage classic, offering expanded functionality with its volume envelope manipulation, built-in fuzz, and effects loop. Note that mastering the nuances of the Attack Decay may require some experimentation to achieve desired results.
All features
Colour
Multicolor
Model Part Number
ATTACKDECAY
Brand
Electro-Harmonix
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the difference between Mono and Poly modes?
In Mono mode, the Attack Decay applies a single volume envelope to the signal, and it resets with each new note. In Poly mode, each note you play gets its own individual volume envelope.
Can I use the Attack Decay with instruments other than guitar?
Yes, you can use the Attack Decay with a variety of instruments that produce an audio signal, such as keyboards, synthesizers, and bass guitars.
What kind of expression pedal should I use?
Use a standard expression pedal with a TRS (tip, ring, sleeve) cable. This is required for the pedal to interpret the signal from your expression pedal.
How do I save a preset?
Adjust the knobs to your desired settings, then press and hold the footswitch for about 2 seconds. The LED will blink to indicate that the preset has been saved.
How do I recall a preset?
Press the footswitch to cycle through your saved presets. The LED color indicates which preset is active.
Does the Attack Decay have true bypass?
No, the Attack Decay uses buffered bypass, which can help maintain signal integrity over long cable runs.
What are the power requirements?
The Attack Decay requires a 9.6V DC power adapter capable of providing at least 200mA of current. The power adapter is included.
Troubleshooting
Pedal not powering on.
Check that the power adapter is correctly connected to both the pedal and a working power outlet. Ensure that the DC jack is properly connected. Verify that you are using the correct power supply.
No sound or weak signal.
Check the input and output connections. Ensure the pedal is engaged (footswitch activated). Adjust the volume and level controls on the pedal and your amplifier. Check all cables.
Unwanted noise or distortion.
Ensure all connections are secure. Check for any ground loops in your setup. Try using a noise gate or other noise reduction pedal to minimize unwanted noise. Make sure to use the correct power supply.
Expression pedal or CV not working.
Make sure your expression pedal or CV source is compatible with the Attack Decay. Check the EXP/CV connection. Adjust the settings on the pedal to make sure the EXP/CV is assigned to the parameters you want to control. Ensure you are using a TRS cable for the expression pedal.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile sound shaping capabilities for volume swells, reverse effects, and unique textures.
Mono and Poly modes offer flexibility for different playing styles.
Integrated fuzz adds harmonic richness and bowed instrument sounds.
Effects loop allows for integration with other effects pedals.
Expression pedal/CV control enables real-time manipulation of parameters.
Cons
Can require experimentation to fully master the range of sounds.
May have a learning curve for users unfamiliar with volume envelope effects.
Requires a power supply (included).
Mono input/output may not be suitable for all stereo setups.
Fuzz sound may not appeal to all users.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Connections: Connect your guitar or other instrument to the Input jack. Connect the Output jack to your amplifier or other effects pedals. If using the effects loop, connect your effect pedal's input to the Attack Decay's Send jack, and your effect pedal's output to the Return jack.
Power: Use the included 9.6V DC power adapter. Ensure the power supply meets the pedal's requirements (200 mA).
Expression Pedal/CV: Connect an expression pedal or CV source to the EXP/CV jack for real-time control over the knobs.
Presets: Save up to three presets by adjusting the controls to your desired settings and pressing the footswitch to save the configuration.
Care:
Keep the pedal clean and free of dust and debris.
Avoid extreme temperatures or humidity.
Clean the exterior with a dry or slightly damp cloth.