a variable delay line using a lumped constant type electromagnetic delay line and enjoying a superhigh - speed rising characteristic is disclosed , which comprises an inductance element formed by winding a conductor and possessed of a plurality of taps , a plurality of capacitors having electrodes thereof on one side kept in common connection , a plurality of linking electrodes disposed along the inductance element and adapted to interconnect the taps of the inductance element and the electrodes of the capacitors on the other side , fixed contacts formed of limited surface regions of the linking electrodes , and movable contact means adapted to advance on the fixed contacts while keeping pressed contact with each fixed contact so as to permit selection of the taps of the inductance element . the linking electrodes each incorporate therein a depression for receiving into snug engagement the movable contact means at the time that the movable contact means is set in pressed contact with the particular fixed contact selected .