There are so many ways you can use delay and each mix will offer a different level of potential for the use of the effect. But there are a few timeless ways of using delay that will enhance your tracks.
A lot of producers make the mistake of adding too much reverb to their tracks. If you find yourself adding reverb and muddying up the sound, try a delay instead. Delays can add a sense of space without hanging around for too long, resulting in a snappier feel to your track.
Using delays on drums or other percussive elements can really help with adding movement to your tracks. Many delay plugins offer a way to sync to the tempo of your DAW, meaning the delays bounce along with the music, creating entirely new elements of groove to turn that stock hi-hat sample into something completely unique.
The most important thing is to experiment with delay for different effects. You’ll come to learn what works and what doesn’t. Turning the delay on and off as you listen to your mix is a great way to see if it adds anything interesting. Try not to spend too much time listening to the track soloed, because this won’t give you a perspective of the overall feel of the song.