BOSS announced the AC-22LX Acoustic Amplifier, a compact stereo amplifier for pickup-equipped acoustic stringed instruments.

The AC-22LX presents a new concept in acoustic amplification, delivering a full-immersion playing experience realized through advanced BOSS Air Feel technology.

Air Feel breathes life into the dry, sterile sound of standard acoustic instrument pickups, recreating the detailed tones captured by stereo acoustic microphone setups in world-class studio settings. From acoustic-electric guitar to ukulele, violin, banjo, and other stringed instruments, the AC-22LX and Air Feel deliver the ultimate personal amplification experience for serious acoustic players.

Many elements contribute to the rich, complex sound of acoustic stringed instruments, including the soundboard, body resonances, and more. In recording situations, stereo microphone setups are used to capture this combined sound along with the surrounding room ambience. Unfortunately, instrument microphones are impracticable for most amplified playing situations due to feedback and other issues. Air Feel erases these limitations, bringing authentic studio microphone sound to acoustic amplification for the first time.

The AC-22LX’s compact and attractive cabinet is equipped with two custom twin-cone speakers, providing expansive stereo tones for home playing. Along with Air Feel, the Guitar/Instrument channel features a three-band EQ plus reverb and combined with reverb/chorus effects. The Mic channel supports an XLR vocal microphone and includes selectable phantom power, two-band EQ, and a dedicated reverb for independent processing. With 15 onboard memories, users can save setups for different songs and instruments. The AC-22LX Editor (macOS/Windows/iOS/Android) provides even deeper control with the ability to change reverb types, access parameters, and more.

The AC-22LX also includes a Rhythm Box feature to enhance practice sessions and live performances. Five instrument types include percussion and drum set sounds, all infused with BOSS spatial technology that fills the surrounding space with vibrant rhythmic energy. There are 15 onboard patterns which users can customize with 119 variations in the AC-22LX Editor.

With its versatile analog and USB connectivity, users can send the AC-22LX’s sound output to a PA system, recorder, or livestreaming application, complete with Air Feel processing and spatial rhythm tones. The analog output supports mono or stereo operation, while the USB connection has a convenient Loopback function for monitoring sounds from a computer.

There are a variety of available options to extend the AC-22LX experience. A rear-panel jack supports up to two foot switches, providing access to rhythm start/stop, control of the onboard looper, and the assignable functions in the AC-22XL Editor. Installing the Bluetooth Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor unlocks even more possibilities through wireless connectivity, including the ability to stream and play along with music from a mobile device, adjust settings via the iOS/Android version of the editor, and more.

Availability & Pricing

The new AC-22LX Acoustic Amplifier is available now at authorized BOSS retailers for $399.99. To learn more about the AC-22LX, visit http://www.boss.info/us/

BOSS announces the AC 22LX Acoustic Amplifier, a compact stereo amplifier for pickup-equipped acoustic stringed instruments. The AC-22 LX presents a new concept in acoustic amplification, delivering a full-immersion playing experience realized through advanced BOSS Air Feel technology.

Air Feel breathes life into the dry, sterile sound of standard acoustic instrument pickups, recreating the detailed tones captured by stereo acoustic microphone setups in world-class studio settings. From acoustic-electric guitar to ukulele, violin, banjo, and other stringed instruments, the AC-22LX and Air Feel deliver the ultimate personal amplification experience for serious acoustic players.

Many elements contribute to the rich, complex sound of acoustic stringed instruments, including the soundboard, body resonances, and more. In recording situations, stereo microphone setups are used to capture this combined sound along with the surrounding room ambience.

Unfortunately, instrument microphones are impractical for most amplifying playing situations due to feedback and other issues. Air Feel erases these limitations, bringing authentic studio microphone sound to acoustic amplification for the first time.

Born of intensive BOSS sound research and advanced processing technologies, Air Feel transforms a standard acoustic pickup’s sound with richness and dimension never possible until now. Players can plug in and enjoy their instrument’s natural acoustic character at performance volumes – without the need for microphones and audio engineering skills.

Easily accessible via a panel knob on the AC-22LX, multiple Air Feel settings recreate the immersive sound of classic stereo microphone techniques, including XY, AB, ORTF, and mid-side.

The AC-22LX’s compact and attractive cabinet is equipped with two custom twin-cone speakers, providing expansive stereo tones for home playing. Along with Air Feel, the Guitar/Instrument channel features a three-band EQ plus reverb and combined reverb/chorus effects. The Mic channel supports an XLR vocal microphone and includes selectable phantom power, two-band EQ and a dedicated reverb for independent processing.

With 15 onboard memories, users can save setups for different songs and instruments. The AC-22LX Editor (macOS/Windows/iOS/Android) provides even deeper control with the ability to change reverb types, access effect parameters, and more.

With its versatile analog and USB connectivity, users can send the AC-22LX’s sound output to a PA system, recorder, or live-streaming application, complete with Air Feel processing and spatial rhythm tones. The analog line output supports mono or stereo operation, while the USB connection has a convenient Loopback function for monitoring sounds from a computer.

There are a variety of available options to extend the AC-22LX experience. A rear-panel jack supports up to two footswitches, providing access to rhythm start/stop, control of the onboard looper, and other assignable functions in the AC-22LX Editor.

Installing the Bluetooth Audio MIDI Dial Adaptor unlocks even more possibilities through wireless connectivity, including the ability to stream and play along with music from a mobile device, adjust settings via the iOS/Android version of the editor, and more.

BOSS announces the new Series GK system and the GM-800 Guitar Synthesizer, a powerful and versatile product that elevates guitar and bass synthesis into a new age of natural playability and boundless creative range. Driven by the newly developed Serial GK digital interface, the advanced ZEN-Core engine in the GM-800 unlocks any sound imaginable – from acoustic instruments to classic and modern synths – while high performance DSP delivers tracking stability and expressive scope never before possible.

Users can also expand the GM-800 experience with a growing selection of ZEN-Core content on Roland Cloud. In addition, BOSS has released a variety of complementary products for the GM-800 and Serial GK system, including GK-5 and GK-5B Divided Pickups for guitar and bass, BGK-15 and BGK-30 connection cables, and GKC-AD and GKC-DA GK Converters for interfacing with classic 13-pin GK products.

GM-800 Guitar Synthesizer

BOSS and its parent company Roland have been the worldwide leaders in guitar synthesizer innovation for nearly five decades, beginning with the revolutionary GR-500 system in 1977. Expanding and elevating the concepts behind many historic Roland GR products, the GM-800 provides guitar and bass players with cutting-edge creative tools and access to sounds typically only available with keyboard-based instruments.

The GM-800 is built around the expandable ZEN-Core Synthesis System, the sound source found in professional Roland products like the JUPITER-X and FANTOM keyboards and ZENOLOGY software synthesizer. ZEN-Core combines modern PCM synthesis and advanced modeling to provide an infinite playground for sonic discovery. With over 1200 Tones, GM-800 users can play everything from pianos, organs, and orchestral instruments to classic Roland synth sounds like the JUPITER-8, JUNO-106, and many others.

The GM-800 features an intuitive workflow based around Scenes, which contain four Tone parts, a Rhythm part, and a vast selection of synthesis parameters, effects, pitch settings, and sensitivity adjustments. Users can layer Tones to create combined voices or assign Tones to individual strings, such as a bass sound on the low strings and a piano or sax sound on the high strings. It’s also possible to assign Tones to specific fret ranges, a powerful new feature made possible with the GM-800’s advanced pitch detection.

The GM-800 supports an ever-growing range of creative options through Roland Cloud, including ZEN-Core Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, and more. A free Roland Account provides access to essential Roland Cloud services, with additional content available via three paid membership levels. All plans start with a free 30-day Ultimate trial to experience everything Roland Cloud has to offer.

The streamlined GM-800 flows smoothly from desktop operation to installation on an advanced pedalboard. There are four assignable footswitches, plus two external control jacks that each support up to two footswitches or an expression pedal. MIDI I/O is also included for interfacing with other synthesizers and MIDI equipment.

Via USB, users can craft Scenes in detail from their computer using the BOSS Tone Studio software for the GM-800. It’s also possible to capture GM-800 sounds as audio tracks in a DAW and use the Guitar to MIDI function to play software-based instruments and hardware sound modules.

Availability & Pricing

The new BOSS GM-800 and GK System will be available in the U.S. beginning in August as follows: GM-800 $749.99, GK-5 $249.99, GK-5B $299.99, GKC-AD $199.99, GCK-DA $199,99, BGK-15 $49,99, BGK-30 $69.99.

BOSS introduces the DM-101 Delay Machine, a powerful and innovative analog delay pedal for modern musicians. Driven by eight BBD’s under smart CPU control, this inspiring pedal delivers 12 unique modes, stereo operation, and a wide array of tonal colors, all while maintaining 100 percent analog signal processing throughout. And with 127 user memories, tap tempo, carryover, MIDI, and more, the DM-101 offers the features and versatility of an advanced digital pedal – but with the vibrant, characterful sound that’s only possible with authentic analog BBD circuitry.

Analog delays based around BBD (bucket-brigade device) microchips emerged in the 1970s as a compact and cost-effective alternative to the standard tape delays of the era. Their warm, saturated, and highly musical sound established a distinctive style of delay that remains favored by many musicians and audio engineers. With its modern CPU control approach, the DM-101 supercharges this classic effect with enhanced capabilities for today’s music makers.

The DM-101 flows effortlessly between gritty vintage echoes and modern analog delay tones with extended high-frequency clarity. Multiple internal circuit elements are switched to define each of the 12 modes, including the number of active BBDs and their connection order, low-pass filter settings, and clocking rates. Twisting the Variation knob cycles through parameters unique to the different modes. And like a traditional analog delay, users can drive the effect into saturated self-oscillation by cranking the Intensity knob.

A major benefit of the DM-101’s CPU control is the ability to realize sophisticated stereo sounds not available with other BBD analog delays. For example, Pan mode routes each BBD and its feedback loop to alternate points in the stereo field, while Dial Mod shifts the modulation phase for each output to generate a wide, spacious delay effect. Six of the 12 modes support stereo operation, providing everything from short reverb-like sounds and expansive modulated delays to pattern delays for intense rhythmic effects.

The DM-101 offers all the creative benefits of an advanced modern delay pedal. Tap tempo and note subdivisions are available with most modes, and there’s carryover for maintaining repeats when the effect is bypassed. Users can store and recall favorite setups with four onboard memories and connect up to two foot switches or an expression pedal for extended real-time control. MIDI I/O takes things further, providing remote access to 127 user memories, MIDI sync, and more. The stereo audio outputs are set for blended operation by default, but they can be easily reconfigured for wet/dry rigs and wet-only parallel setups.

BOSS announces three new models in the best-selling lineup of Katana guitar amplifiers. The Katana-50 MkII EX is an expanded version of the entry-level Katana-50 MkII, offering enhanced performance features derived from higher-end Katana models. The Katana-Artist MkII Head provides the premium sound and features of the flagship Katana-Artist MkII combo in a powerful 100-watt amplifier head. The Katana Cabinet 212 is the ideal companion for the companion for the Katana-Artist MkII Head, offering ultimate rock tones in a 2×12 configuration loaded with custom Waza speakers.

Katana-50 MkII EX

Armed with 50 watts of stage-ready power, the Katana-50 MkII EX expands on the capabilities of the popular Katana-50 MkII model, providing more live performance versatility in the same portable design. Support for the dedicated BOSS GA-FC and GA-FC EX foot foot controllers allows users to select Tone Setting memories, turn effects on/off, and more. There’s also a line output for sending mix-ready tone to a house PA, plus the ability to link a second Katana-50 MkII EX or 100-watt Katana MkII model with the Stereo expand feature.

Katana-Artist MkII Head

The 100-watt Katana-Artist MKII Head comes with all the core features of the acclaimed flagship Katana-Artist MkII combo amplifier. Five unique amp characters and five variations provide 10 different tone options, while five simultaneous effects categories put the sound-shaping power of a massive pedalboard inside the amp. And with BOSS Tone Studio, users can customize the effects with over 60 different types and dive deep into internal parameters to craft their personal sound.

The Katana-Artist MkII Head offers many features for extended performance control, each with customizable options accessible with the editing tools the BOSS Tone Studio. A foot-controllable, post-amp Solo boost function is available, with a front-panel knob for fast adjustment plus dedicated delay and EQ. Users can directly shape the cab emulation on the line output with selectable Air Feel settings on the rear panel, including three presets and two custom setting. And it’s also possible to adjust the middle setting of the amp’s Power Control in 10-watt increments via the editor for different performing needs.

Katana Cabinet 212 Waza

The Katana Cabinet 212 Waza is precisely turned to support the massive range of the Katana-Artist MkII Head. This robust cab features a 2×12 configuration loaded with custom Waza speakers, delivering sought-after rock tones inspired by the benchmark British stack speakers from the 1960s. Two cabinets can be stacked to create a clean 4×12 setup, and the versatile design features a removable panel for closed-back or open-back operation.

Availability & Pricing

The BOSS Katana-50 MkII EX, Katana-Artist MkII Head and Katana Cabinet 212 Waza will be available in the U.S. in January for $399.99, $569.99 and $599.99, respectively.

BOSS announces the FS-1-WL Wireless Footswitch, a versatile multi-function foot controller for a wide range of applications. Users can control digital music score apps, YouTube videos, DAWs, and supported BOSS and Roland gear wirelessly over Bluetooth.

It’s also possible to connect a MIDI cable to operate multi-effect processors, pedals, and other MIDI hardware. And with the dedicated editor/librarian app, the FS-1-WL can be customized to control nearly any software application or MIDI device.

Compact and durable, the FS-1-WL is an essential wireless partner for all types of creative situations. It can send keyboard commands over Bluetooth to smartphones, tablets, and computers and comes with three pre-loaded setups for popular apps. Users can also change presets, control effects, and more on Bluetooth-equipped BOSS products like Pocket GT, Katana-Air, and Waza-Air, or the GX-100 via the Bluetooth Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor.

In addition, the FS-1-WL supports communication with Roland’s WM-1 Wireless MIDI Adaptor and WM-1D Wireless MIDI Dongle to control MIDI hardware devices and computers without built-in Bluetooth support.

With the FS-1-WL editor/librarian app on a Mac/Windows computer or iOS/Android mobile device, users can assign custom keyboard commands to the footswitches, either single keystrokes or combinations with modifier keys like shift and control. And in MIDI mode, custom PC and CC messages can be assigned. The app software also provides the ability to save and organize configurations for different needs.

Backed by decades of BOSS design expertise, the FS-1-WL is comfortable to use and built to last. The three onboard footswitches are quiet and easy to press. Status LEDs provide high visibility and can be set to different colors with the editor app. Two AAA alkaline batteries offer up to 14 hours of operation on the move, and AC poser is supported with an optional BOSS PSA adaptor.

Up to two external footswitches can be connected to the FS-1-WL for expanded control, both with MIDI messages and keyboard commands. An external expression pedal can also be connected for continuous parameter control of any device that responds to MIDI CC messages. The FS-1-WL features a TRS MIDI jack for wired operation of MIDI hardware devices. It also functions as a plug-and-play MIDI input device for computers and mobile devices over USB.

BOSS announces the DS-1W Distortion, the latest addition to the acclaimed Waza Craft family of premium compact pedals. Based on the legendary DS-1 Distortion, the DS-1W fuses the look and character of the standard pedal with two modes and a newly revised discrete analog circuit for more range and versatility.

Introduced in 1978 among the earliest models in the BOSS compact series, the DS-1 redefined the sound of distortion and remains as influential today as ever. Its hard-edged attack and smooth sustain of distortion and remains as influential today as ever. Its hard-edged attack and smooth sustain have made it the best-selling compact effect, with over 1.5 million units sold to date. The iconic orange stomp is behind the signature sounds of a long list of rock, alternative, and fusion legends, and its aggressive tone can be heard on countless famous tracks. Filled with artful Waza Craft refinements, the DS-1W expands the DS-1 experience for a broader range of styles and applications.

Standard mode on the DS-1W delivers the authentic sound of the original in every way. Its innovative two-stage gain circuit is a critical part of the fullness and definition that so many guitarists love about the DS-1. The versatile tone control affects low and high frequencies, simultaneously boosting and cutting each end of the frequency spectrum as the knob is turned. This allows players to dial in the sound for any application, from sharp rhythms and searing solos to maintaining low-end clarity when boosting amps and other drive pedals.

The DS-1W’s Custom mode introduces a bold new voice that takes the unmistakable DS-1 character to the next dimension. A thick, mid-focused tone provides more fatness and cut to stand out in the mix, and the tone control is tuned to maximize the mode’s richness and presence. The available level has been increased by 6dB, providing a wider range of gain boost for driving amps and pedals. And with more input sensitivity, players can conjure up all sorts of distortion colors with picking dynamics and volume control adjustments on the guitar.

Like all Waza Craft models, the DS-1W features a premium buffer for clean and clear tone when bypassed and comes with the standard compact series five-year warranty.

BOSS announces the GA-FC EX, a new foot controller for select BOSS amplifiers. The GA-FC EX provides enhanced floor control features and expanded functionality for supported amplifiers, which currently includes four models in the Katana MkII series.

Housed in a rugged metal chassis, the GA-FC EX features six heavy-duty footswitches, that provide direct control of ten unique functions. It maintains the simple setup and intuitive workflow of the standard BOSS GA-FC Foot Controller while offering new features for greater performance flexibility.

Status LEDs with two colors make it easy to see changes when switching. And along with two dedicated expression pedal jacks, there’s an additional control jack with a three-way mode selector. It allows players to connect a third expression pedal or use the GA-FC EX for expanded applications.

The mode selector on the GA-FC EX opens up powerful capabilities with supported Katana MkII models. EXPAND mode supports the connection of an additional GA-FC EX or a standard GA-FC for even more control, giving players instant switching access to all memories and effects at once. FOOT CONTROL 2 mode is for using two Katana MkII amps together, providing the ability to select memories and effects on both amps from a single floor controller.

Current BOSS amplifiers that support all GA-FC EX features include the Katana-100 MkII, Katana-100/202 Mkll, Katana-Head MkII, and Katana-Artist MkII. More BOSS amplifier models will be supported in the future.

The GA-FC EX can be used with other BOSS and Roland amplifiers that support the GA-FC, but only standard GA-FC control functions are available.

BOSS introduces the FZ-1W Fuzz, the latest member of the acclaimed Waza Craft family of compact effect pedals. Realized through deep analysis of many legendary fuzz pedals and detailed Waza craftsmanship, the all-analog FZ-1W delivers the inspiring tone, feel, and vibe of classic fuzz in a reliable modern design. And like all Waza Craft pedals, the FZ-1W features premium components for top-quality performance and different operation modes for maximum tonal versatility.

When introduced in the 1960s, fuzz pedals changed the game for electric guitarists, giving them a bold and aggressive new voice that reshaped the sound of rock music forever. The simple circuits of the most sought-after vintage fuzz units produce bright and aggressive tones with long sustain, and they’re very sensitive to playing dynamics and input volume as well. But these classic pedals are also famously inconsistent—even between models of the same design—and variables like age, battery type, temperature, and more can have a dramatic effect on their sound and performance.

Backed by Waza innovation, the FZ-1W offers all the great musical characteristics of vintage fuzz without the downsides. While inspired by historic circuits, this pedal presents an all-new approach fueled by BOSS’s forward-thinking perspective and deep knowledge of effect design. Using top-quality silicon transistors, BOSS engineers have created a unique circuit that provides authentic tone and response while maintaining stable performance in any temperature or operating condition. The sound possibilities have also been expanded over vintage designs, offering higher gain, lower noise, deeper tone-shaping control, and more.

With the FZ-1W’s Vintage mode, BOSS has redefined the classic fuzz voice with more gain and wider expressive range. The sound character is raspy and assertive without being harsh, and the player can smoothly transition from heavy fuzz to crunch to crystal clean simply by riding their guitar’s volume. The powerful Tone knob simultaneously adjusts the high and low frequencies to produce a variety of different fuzz colors. And by turning down the Fuzz knob and cranking the Level, the FZ-1W works great as a boost for amps and other gain pedals.

Modern mode on the FZ-1W delivers a more refined and versatile fuzz voice with focused midrange and fatter tone, making it ideal for all types of current music styles. The gain range is even wider than Vintage mode, and dialing the Fuzz knob past three o’clock conjures rich, singing sustain for inspired solo playing. The Tone knob also offers a different tuning that lets players tweak the brightness without altering the midrange, ensuring their sound always cuts through. And when used as a boost, Modern mode dishes a heap of girth with rich, mid-driven character.

The FZ-1W Fuzz will be available in the U.S. in early November for $199.99.

BOSS announces the RC-505mkll and RC-600, two new flagship models in the renowned Loop Station product lineup. The five-track RC-505mkll brings next-generation power and flexibility to the world’s most popular tabletop looper, giving performers an expanded range of inspiring and customizable tools for hands-on music creation. The RC-600 takes floor-based looping where it’s never gone before, offering six stereo tracks, advanced foot control, and highly configurable operation. Both new Loop Station models feature class-leading 32-bit sound, a massive onboard effects selection, built-in rhythms, versatile connectivity, external control support, and USB for interfacing with computers.

Introduced in 2013, the tabletop RC-505 has been the go-to looper for beatboxes, vocalists, instrumentalists, and other looping artists around the world. The RC-505mkll retains everything that made the original so loved and adds a wealth of new features to make the looping experience even more creative and free flowing.

Each of the RC-505mkll’s five stereo tracks now includes customizable FX and Track buttons, making it easier to color and control loops in the heat of the moment. Users can set up various parameters and trigger them with a press, hold, or double-click. Pressing the Undo/Redo button reveals a secondary layer to double the control options. Two external control jacks are also available for connecting footswitches or expression pedals and each has its own dedicated set of parameters. And with the Assign function, users can set up 16 additional targets for hardware control and MIDI operation.

The RC-505 also provides a greatly expanded FX palette to process sounds during recording and playback. There are 49 Input FX and 53 Track FX types to choose from – including new vocal harmony effects – and it’s possible to use up to four in each section at once. Groups of four Input FX and Track FX can be stored in four banks for quick recall, and a step sequence function is available in some FX to create dynamic real-time movement.

The RC-505mkll’s expanded connectivity and onboard audio processing allow performers to do more with less external gear. There are two XLR mic inputs and two mono/stereo line input pairs, plus an input mixer with two mic compressors and independent challenge EQs. Three stereo output pairs, a headphones output, and an output mixer are also available, complete with assignable routing options, and master reverb and compressor effects. In addition, the RC-505mkll’s panel faders have longer throw for more precise adjustments and rigid construction for a more solid feel.

Loaded with evolved features and customizable functions, the floor-based RC-600 Loop Station ushers in a new era of creative power for guitarists, singer/songwriters, multi-instrumentalists, and other looping musicians. Users can capture multiple mics and instruments with six stereo phrase tracks and take full command with nine freely assignable foot switches, three pedal modes, and deep external control support. There’s also a large, circular loop indicator and seven top-levels LCD screen variations to provide visual feedback on current operations.

With the RC-600’s 49 input FX and 53 Track FX types, users can process sounds before and after loop capture to bring color, variation, and excitement to performances. Included are versatile effects from the vast BOSS library, a guitar-to-bass simulator, and powerful vocal FX. The Track FX selections also include cool DJ-style effects like Beat Scatter, Vinyl Flick, and more. Up to four Input FX and Track FX can be used at once, and banks of four can be stored in each section for quick recall.

The RC-600 comes with the same connectivity and mixing features as the RC-505mkll, giving performers powerful and versatile tools for working with mics and instruments, mixing and monitoring sounds, and interfacing with other gear.
The BOSS 505mkll Station will be available in the U.S. in January 2022 for $599.99.

The BOSS RC-600 Loop Station will be available in the U.S. in December of this year for $599.99.