The GFI System Orca Delay is a compact digital delay pedal from GFI System. It carries a list price of USD 249.001 and, at 0.6 Kg (1.6 lbs) and 12 (L) x 7.2 (W) x 5.5 (H) cm, it is a small enclosure that fits easily on a pedalboard1.
The four algorithms are Digital, Tape, Diffuse and Ambiental1. Delicious Audio's Paolo De Gregorio characterized the pedal as offering "plenty of sweet spots for dialing in characterful delays ranging from crystal clear to dark and distant"2.
Four delay algorithms in one pedal
The Orca's four delay algorithms are Digital, Tape, Diffuse and Ambiental, all carried over from the earlier Clockwork Delay12. Delicious Audio notes that the Orca "features four of its predecessor's true and tried delay algorithms"2. Each mode offers up to seven parameter adjustments, accessed through four dual-function encoders2.
| Algorithm | Notes |
|---|---|
| Digital | Clean digital delay |
| Tape | Carried over from the Clockwork Delay line2 |
| Diffuse | Carried over from the Clockwork Delay line2 |
| Ambiental | Carried over from the Clockwork Delay line2 |
The Orca is a streamlined version of its predecessor. The Clockwork Delay V3 offered seven stereo delay algorithms: Digital, Analog, Dual, Diffuse, Ambiental, Multi-Tap 3 and Multi-Tap 445. The Orca keeps four of those and drops the rest, along with most of the Clockwork's preset capacity: the V3 had eight preset locations5, while the Orca has two, labeled A and B2.
Controls and presets
The Orca's four dual-function encoders allow up to seven parameter adjustments per mode2. Pedal of the Day's review explains that each knob goes well beyond turning:
"you can Turn, Push, Hold and Twist each one to perform a multitude of operations, such as adjusting parameters, toggle"
According to that review, these operations include adjusting parameters, toggling expression mapping, secondary parameter control, and entering the Options and Global menus3.
The Orca Delay's enclosure measures 12 (L) x 7.2 (W) x 5.5 (H) cm and weighs 0.6 Kg (1.6 lbs)1, so it occupies a small footprint on a pedalboard. Players comparing it against larger multi-algorithm pedals from the same maker may want to look at GFI System's other delay and reverb units for more control surface.
Power and connections
The Orca runs on a 9V DC power supply with a negative center and draws about 110 mA1. Its input impedance is 1 MOhm and its output impedance is 1K Ohm1.
At roughly 110 mA, the Orca draws more current than a 9V battery can practically supply, so plan on a dedicated 9V DC output from a pedalboard power supply.
The pedal supports both mono and stereo input and output1. Mono connection uses standard TS patch cables, while stereo connection is made with TRS patch cables, and a splitter-Y cable may be needed depending on the rest of the rig1. Delicious Audio confirms the input and output jacks feature TRS connectors for stereo operation2.
Expression pedal and tap tempo
A multi-purpose external jack provides connection to either an expression pedal or a tap tempo pedal1. GFI System says the expression pedal input "enables expressive control over the delays' parameters," and the external tap tempo can be used for remote tempo control1. Delicious Audio's listing likewise notes the External jack accepts either expression or tap tempo input, with manual or external tap tempo available2.
Where it came from
The Orca Delay lists at USD 249.001 and weighs 0.6 Kg (1.6 lbs), with dimensions of 12 (L) x 7.2 (W) x 5.5 (H) cm1. Its compact size places it among the smaller delay pedals in GFI System's range, and players weighing it against earlier or larger units from the maker can compare those enclosures directly2.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
R.J. Ronquillo
Mark Johnston
Questions
What delay types does the GFI System Orca Delay offer?
The Orca Delay carries four delay algorithms: Digital, Tape, Diffuse and Ambiental. These are carried over from GFI System's earlier Clockwork Delay, and each mode offers up to seven parameter adjustments through the pedal's dual-function encoders.
Does the GFI Orca Delay work in stereo?
Yes. The Orca supports both mono and stereo input and output. Mono connection uses standard TS patch cables, while stereo connection is made with TRS patch cables, and a splitter-Y cable may be needed depending on your setup.
What power supply does the Orca Delay need?
The Orca runs on a 9V DC power supply with a negative center, drawing about 110 mA. That current draw is high enough that a standard 9V battery is not a practical option.
Can I use an expression pedal or tap tempo switch with the Orca?
Yes. A multi-purpose external jack accepts either an expression pedal or a tap tempo pedal. The expression pedal input enables expressive control over the delay parameters, and the external tap tempo allows remote tempo control.
Is the GFI Orca Delay analog or digital?
It is a digital delay pedal with 24-bit DAC and ADC conversion. Delicious Audio describes it as a streamlined, multi-mode, stereo digital delay.
How many presets does the Orca Delay have?
The Orca has two preset slots, labeled A and B. That is fewer than its predecessor, the Clockwork Delay V3, which offered eight preset locations.
Sources (5)
- Orca Delay, GFI System
- GFI Orca Stereo Delay, Delicious Audio, 2023-01-16
- GFI System Orca Delay + Skylar Reverb, Pedal of the Day, 2021-05-18
- GFI System Clockwork v3 Delay, Pedal of the Day, 2018-06-11
- GFI Clockwork Delay V3, Delicious Audio, 2020-08-11
