The Boss MS-3 Multi effects switcher is designed to maximise players’ creative freedom, combining a powerful multi-effects engine with the flexibility of a multi-pedal switcher. With extensive effects and connectivity, the MS-3 makes it possible for anyone to create a professional effects system both compact and versatile enough to suit a wide range of playing styles.
Capable of running 6 different onboard effects alongside three of your favourite stompboxes, the Boss MS-3 can stand against the most powerful units on the market. Set it up as the foundation of your rig or as the main control center, or as a standalone unit for times when you need to travel light. The MS-3 also features the MS-3 editor/librarian to organize and customize the pedals effects, making it perfect for both new and seasoned players.
Extremely versatile design
The highly flexible design of the MS-3 allows players to create a wide range of effects systems, from simple setups to fully complex rigs. Use the multi-effects switcher as the central hub of advanced hybrid rigs with MIDI gear and channel switching amps, or as a general-purpose effects unit to improve the tone of up to three different stompboxes. Simply connect your favorite stompboxes to either of the three FX loops and position the onboard effects around the loops in any way you want. The unit can also be used as a standalone effects processor, perfect for the times when you need to travel light on the road.
Powerful range of effects
Equipped with Boss’ world-class engine, the MS-3 features 112 effect types split between 6 different categories: FX1, FX2, mod 1, mod 2, delay, and reverb. FX1 and FX2 offer a range of distortions, overdrives, compressors, pitch shifters, slow gears, and many more to saturate your tone with characteristics. Mod 1 and mod 2 feature Boss’ chorus and vibrato effects, along with tremolos, flanger, and phasers to enhance the dynamics of your playing. Although the effects are optimized for the electric guitar, a large section is specially optimized for the bass guitar.
Built for easy playability
Despite its extensive capabilities, the engineers at Boss have kept the interface as simple and easy to use as possible. A brightly backlit screen clearly shows the patch/bank numbers and parameters for easy changes, and quick access knobs make editing intuitive and simple. Heavy-duty footswitches provide easy command over the entire system, with options between memory and manual mode to change the effect of the footswitches. When in memory mode, the footswitches can be used to select patches and banks, while in manual mode, players can switch loops and effects on/off. All of these settings can be saved within the 200 patch locations on the MS-3, perfect for ensuring your favorite setting can be recalled when needed.
Excellent connectivity
An extensive range of ins/outs provides the pedal with plenty of options to expand control, allowing you to set up your perfect rig for a sound unique to you. Connect external footswitches to control tap tempo, effects on/off, and parameter adjustments, or attach expression pedals to add extra dimensions to your tone. Control out jacks are perfect for switching amp channels and controlling effects, while the MIDI out allows connection of MIDI-enabled pedals. The addition of 2 audio outputs makes this multi-effects pedal perfect for dual amp rigs, as it allows you to switch between mono and stereo. Featuring a USB port, which allows you to access the free MS-3/librarian software to edit effects, assign control parameters, set tempos, or backup and restore individual presets.
Specifications
– General Modes: Memory/Manual
– Loops: 3
– AD Conversion: 24 bits + AF method
– DA Conversion: 24 bits
– Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz
– Effects: 112
– Patches: 200
– Controls: Number Switches 1–4, Memory/Manual Switch, On/Off Menu, Edit, Exit, Enter 1–3 Knobs, Power switch
– Display: Graphic LCD (132 x 32 Dots Backlit LCD)
– Indicator: Number 1–4, Memory/Manual, On/Off (FX1, MOD1, L1–3, FX2, MOD2, DLY, REV)
– Power Supply: AC Adaptor
– Current Draw: 280 mA
– Accessories: AC Adaptor, Rubber Feet x 4, Owner’s Manual, Leaflet “USING THE UNIT SAFELY”
– Connections Inputs: Guitar 1/4″ Jack, 2 x CTL IN 1/4″ Jack
– Nominal Input Level: Input: -10 dBu, Loops Return: -10 dBu
– Maximum Input Level: Input: +7 dBu, Loops Return: +7 dBu
– Input Impedance: 1 M ohms
– Outputs: 2 x 1/4″ Jack (R, L/Mono), CTL Out
– Nominal Output Level: Output L/Mono, R: -10 dBu, Loops Send: -10 dBu
– Output Impedance: 1 k Ohms
– FX Loops: 6 x 1/4″ Jack (Send/Return)
– USB Computer Port: USB Type B
– MIDI Out: 5-Pin Connector
– Dimensions: Width: 9.6825″ (246 mm), Depth: 3.875″ (97 mm), Height: 2.6825″ (68 mm)
– Weight: 1.1 kg (2 lbs 7 oz)
