Boss RE-201chat_bubble_outlineFrom real comments

The tone-shaping delay controls are a standout feature. Multiple commenters emphasize that the bass and treble knobs shape the actual echo repeats, not just the reverb, letting players go darker than a carbon copy delay or brighter than a DD-3. One user calls this a huge selling point they rely on constantly instead of touching the reverb, while another notes the pedal only truly comes alive once the tone knobs are cranked alongside some reverb.

Reverb quality is a recurring weak spot. Despite strong delay performance, several users single out the reverb as underwhelming, with one bluntly saying it sucks, and another describing the approach as clean and sterile compared to grittier tape-echo alternatives from other brands. This suggests the RE-201 is best appreciated primarily for its echo and tape emulation rather than its built-in reverb effect.

Build quality and features impress, but reliability concerns exist. Fans call it one of the best sounding, sturdily built multi-pedals available, citing tap tempo, expression pedal support, multiple outputs, and reprogrammability as strong value for the price. However, one commenter warns of a persistent hum/buzz issue affecting some units unpredictably, severe enough to prevent stage use, alongside the absence of true bypass despite otherwise not sucking tone.