BOSS
BOSS MS-3 Multi-Effects Switcher
90
EJ Score
Legendary $494.99
A three-loop programmable switcher with Boss multi-effects built in. Designed to integrate your favorite stomps with digital delays, modulations, and reverbs in one compact pedalboard brain.
90
EJ Score
Legendary Pros & Cons
Pros
- +Combines three-loop programmable switching with Boss digital effects, eliminating the need for separate multi-effects and switcher units
- +Clean signal path and silent switching preserve original guitar tone through the loops
- +Excellent emulations of classic Boss pedals with high-quality delays, modulations, and reverbs that rival standalone units
- +Typically high Boss build quality with true or buffered bypass options and user-selectable carryover function for natural reverb tails
- +Limitless potential for anyone new to loop switchers, backed by typically high-quality Boss tones
Cons
- −Onboard drive sounds are not the best choice for players with subtle tastes or those who prefer analogue overdrive character
- −Pitch-shifter sounds too lumpy to use as a convincing 12-string emulator
- −Does not include a suitable power supply despite barely managing an evening on AA batteries
- −Deep parameter editing is more efficient with the free computer software than the front panel controls
The Verdict
MusicRadar’s 4.5/5 rating is spot-on. The MS-3 nails the concept of merging loop switching with multi-effects, making it perfect for players who want to integrate their prized analogue drives with Boss’s excellent digital time-based effects. The onboard drives are usable but not stellar, so plan to loop in your own OD/distortion pedals. For $495, you get a pedalboard brain that’s flexible enough to grow with you, though Boss should’ve included a damn power supply at this price point.
