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An introduction to Metric Halo MH DirtyDelay v4, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
MH Dirty Delay is a fantastic-sounding feedback delay processor with integrated Character and Filters in the delay path.
— Metric Halo official site
What is MH DirtyDelay v4?
MH DirtyDelay v4 is Metric Halo's feedback delay with Character and Filters integrated into the delay path, letting you make it clean or dirty.
Dual delay lines, crossfeed, feedback and distortion control are said to create rich, complex textures and patterns.
Delay times can be set manually in milliseconds or by tempo-based note values. Tempo can follow the host, be entered manually or be tapped in.
The maker says it adds texture and movement without the veiling and darkening often associated with feedback delays. It is also part of the MH Production Bundle v4.
Dual delay lines
Mono and stereo delay lines each go up to 5 seconds, accommodating long delays.
Feedback and crossfeed
Each line has feedback and crossfeed with phase invert, producing complex repeats that spread across the stereo field.
Filters in the delay path
A two-band fully parametric filter shapes the delayed sound, so you can limit lows or highs as repeats build up.
Texture with Character
MH Character in the delay path texturizes and saturates the repeats, helpful for tape-like grit.
Delay time settings
Set times in milliseconds or by tempo-based note values, and offset each line's output in time.
Per-line mix and gain
Each line has independent wet/dry mix and gain, useful for different amounts on each side.
v4 features
v4 adds undo/redo, A/B snapshots, resizing and themes, plus VST3 on both macOS and Windows.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Formats (macOS) | AU, AAX, VST2, VST3 (64-bit) |
| Formats (Windows) | AAX, VST2, VST3 (64-bit) |
| macOS | OS X 10.10 or newer, Intel or Apple silicon |
| Windows | Windows 7 or newer, Intel |
| Licensing | iLok.com account required; iLok dongle optional (iLok Cloud also works); two activations per license |
| Trial | Free 30-day trial of the Production Bundle |
| Delay time | Up to 5 seconds per line |
What is included and system requirements
- Feedback delay
- Character and filters in the delay path
- Presets
How to use it
- Get the trial or the product from the Metric Halo website and run the installer.
- Activate the license with your iLok.com account.
- Rescan plug-ins in your DAW.
- Insert the plug-in on the track or bus you want to process.
- Load a preset first and listen while watching the display.
- Move the main controls a little at a time to hear the change.
- Use A/B snapshots to switch between before and after settings.
- Adjust the window size and theme to your liking.
Vocal delay
Delay times can be set by note values in sync with tempo. You could try it to add depth to a vocal.
Vintage echo
The maker says it can create vintage echo and tape-delay style sounds, with filters and Character in the feedback path controlling how gritty or clean it is.
Subtle space in a mix
The maker also mentions lush and subtle spaces in a mix, and wet/dry can be set separately for each line.
Performance
The maker says it suits both production and performance. Tempo can be tapped in, so it may be adjustable while playing.
Who it may suit
- People who want to dirty up delay repeats for texture
- Those who want precise tempo-synced delay settings
- Users who want to stay within Metric Halo plug-ins
Good to know before you buy
- An iLok.com account is needed to manage the license (a physical iLok dongle is optional).
- One license covers both supported macOS and Windows systems.
- A free 30-day Production Bundle trial lets you try it before buying.
- Besides buying it alone, you can get it as part of the MH Production Bundle.
- New purchases of Metric Halo audio interfaces include an MH Production Bundle v4 license.
Price
$179 (Metric Halo official site, checked 2026-10-27). Prices can vary by region and promotion, so check the official page before buying.
See MH DirtyDelay v4 on the product page
Sources: mhsecure.com (checked 2026-10-27)
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