BOSS MS-3 Multi Effects Switcher Pedalboard Effects & Loop Switching System

The BOSS MS-3 Multi Effects Switcher is an exceptionally powerful solution for players who want the flexibility of a multi-effects processor without giving up the individual pedals they already know and love. By combining a full-featured BOSS effects engine with three programmable external effects loops, the MS-3 lets you build a compact hybrid pedalboard that brings traditional stompboxes, onboard effects, switching, and rig control together in one system.

Connect up to three of your favorite external pedals to the MS-3's loops, then combine them with its extensive collection of onboard effects. The external loops can be switched individually, while the MS-3's internal effects can be placed around them as needed to create complete signal chains for different songs, sounds, or playing situations.

That makes the MS-3 ideal for players who have a few pedals they consider essential—a favorite compressor, drive, fuzz, preamp, or other specialty effect—but don't necessarily want a separate stompbox for every modulation, delay, reverb, utility, and control function on their board.

A Complete Hybrid Pedalboard System

The MS-3 can run six internal effects simultaneously while integrating three external pedals. Its onboard effects are organized into six simultaneously available sections: FX1, FX2, MOD1, MOD2, Delay, and Reverb.

With 112 built-in effect types, the MS-3 covers a huge range of sounds including overdrive, distortion, compression, pitch shifting, chorus, vibrato, tremolo, flanger, phaser, delay, reverb, and much more. BOSS also includes a substantial selection of effects optimized specifically for bass, making the MS-3 an excellent choice for both guitar and bass pedalboards.

Recall an Entire Rig with a Footswitch

The MS-3 provides 200 patch locations for storing complete effects and control setups. A patch can recall your internal effects, external loops, effect parameters, control assignments, and other rig settings together, allowing complex changes to happen with a single footswitch press.

In Memory Mode, the footswitches provide quick access to stored patches and banks. Switch to Manual Mode and the footswitches can be assigned to turn individual loops and effects on and off or control other functions in real time. Manual Mode assignments can also be stored independently within each patch.

Powerful Rig Control

The MS-3 goes far beyond simply switching effects. Its control outputs can be used with compatible amplifiers and external devices for functions such as amp channel switching, while MIDI output allows the MS-3 to send program change, control change, and tempo information to MIDI-equipped pedals and other gear.

Additional footswitches and expression pedals can also be connected for tap tempo, effect switching, parameter changes, volume, wah, pitch effects, and other real-time functions.

Flexible Stereo or Mono Operation

Dual outputs allow the MS-3 to operate in stereo or mono configurations, making it equally useful for straightforward single-amp pedalboards and more sophisticated dual-amp or stereo rigs.

USB Editing and Backup

Connect the MS-3 to a Mac or Windows computer via USB and use the free BOSS MS-3 Editor/Librarian software for detailed patch editing, control assignments, tempo settings, backup and restore, and organization of patches into Live Sets.

Features

• Integrated multi-effects processor and programmable effects switcher
• Three audio loops for integrating your favorite external pedals
• External loops can be individually switched and combined with onboard effects
• Up to six internal effects available simultaneously
• 112 built-in effect types for guitar and bass
• FX1, FX2, MOD1, MOD2, Delay, and Reverb effect sections
• 200 patch locations for complete effects and control setups
• Memory and Manual operating modes
• Built-in tuner, noise suppressor, and global EQ
• MIDI output for controlling MIDI-equipped pedals and devices
• Control outputs for compatible amp channel switching and external gear
• Connections for additional footswitches and expression pedals
• Stereo or mono output operation
• Backlit LCD with dedicated editing controls and status indicators
• USB connectivity for BOSS MS-3 Editor/Librarian software
• Compact design ideal for pedalboards, touring rigs, and fly dates

Specifications

• Operating Modes: Memory / Manual
• External Effects Loops: 3
• Effects: 112 types
• Patch Locations: 200
• AD Conversion: 24-bit + BOSS AF method
• DA Conversion: 24-bit
• Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz
• Input: 1/4-inch
• Loop Sends: Three 1/4-inch
• Loop Returns: Three 1/4-inch
• Outputs: 1/4-inch L/Mono and R
• Control Output: 1/4-inch TRS CTL 1/2
• External Control Inputs: Two 1/4-inch TRS CTL/EXP jacks
• MIDI: MIDI Out
• USB: USB Type B
• Power Supply: AC adapter
• Current Draw: 280 mA
• Dimensions: 10-7/8" W x 3-7/8" D x 2-11/16" H
• Weight: 2 lb 7 oz

Included Accessories

• AC adapter
• Four rubber feet
• Owner's manual
• Safety information

If you love individual pedals but also want presets, sophisticated switching, modulation, delays, reverbs, MIDI control, and the convenience of a modern multi-effects system, the BOSS MS-3 offers an unusually elegant way to combine the two approaches in one compact pedalboard command center.