The mechanics behind basic delay are simple: Play a note or chord into an audio-storage medium, then get that device to play that sound back to you — either once or multiple times — after whatever amount of time makes you happy. Of course, people have improved upon this simple formula, taking delay to new depths and heights, and often including an infinite assortment of types and combinations in one pedal.

You don't have to be surf-rock legend Dick Dale to appreciate a touch of reverb on your guitar's signal. Even a smattering of reverb adds character and generally makes things sound warmer, friendlier and twangier, all while fooling your poor brain into thinking you're rocking out in a fan-packed stadium.

Just in time for this week's Winter NAMM Show, Electro-Harmonix has introduced the H.O.G. 2. This second-generation Harmonic Octave Generator/Guitar Synthesizer builds upon the legacy of the critically acclaimed H.O.G.

New York City-based Electro-Harmonix has been introducing a lot of cool pedals lately, including the Crying Tone Wah and the Talking Pedal, both of which are part of EHX's Next Step Effects line.