Yep, the MXR Carbon Copy Analog Delay is a true bypass pedal. This means that when you switch it off, it won't mess with your guitar signal—your tone stays just as it is. That's straight from the manufacturer's product description.
Now, about the mono output: the Carbon Copy is set up for mono, not stereo. It’s got a single 1/4-inch input and output, focusing on a mono signal to give you those classic, rich delay tones.
But what it lacks in stereo, it makes up for with its warm, lush delays. You get up to 600 milliseconds of delay time, thanks to the bucket brigade circuitry. It's easy to use with three knobs for delay time, mix, and regeneration, plus a modulation button for a bit of a chorus vibe. Our research shows it's super popular with musicians who need a solid mono delay.
If stereo is a must for you, you might have to get creative. Some folks use additional gear like stereo splitting boxes or even two of these pedals to get a stereo effect. So, it's possible if you're willing to experiment a bit.
For those who can't do without stereo, you might want to check out alternatives like the Eventide TimeFactor, which comes with stereo built-in.
But remember, our research highlights that the Carbon Copy is loved for its warm sound and reliable build. It's a mainstay for a lot of players who want good-quality analog delay without any tone loss.
So, if keeping your signal pure is what you're after, the Carbon Copy’s true bypass should do the trick, all while delivering those warm, charming analog delays.