Boss XS-1 Poly Shifter Pedal

The XS-1 Poly Shifter delivers instant retuning in a convenient, compact footprint. Driven by advanced BOSS algorithms years in the making, this magical pedal transforms the overall pitch while maintaining your instrument’s true character. You get speedy tracking, crystal-clear response, and zero compromise in tone—whether shifting down, simulating a capo, or using extreme octave jumps for effect. The versatile XS-1 unlocks a new level of performance freedom, making tuning changes fast, fluid, and seamless.

Key Features

• Class-leading pitch shifting - Designed for guitar and bass, the XS-1 features class-leading new Boss algorithms for unrivalled pitch shifting capabilities with a clear response and natural feel that retains the fundamental sound character.
• Expandable Control - Connect external footswitches for quick access to up to three tuning setups, or use an expression pedal for linear pitch control.
• Easy to use - Its easy to find your perfect pitch-shifted tone with XS-1 simple controls. Change pitch across +/- seven semitones or +/- three octaves or use the detune function (+/- 20 cents) to create rich doubling effects. Its balance control allows you to quickly find your ultimate tone without hassle.

Natural Sound with Advanced BOSS Technology

In developing the XS series, BOSS engineers pioneered new methods to advance real-time pitch shifting and eliminate the tonal artefacts common in conventional designs. Powered by finely tuned algorithms and a specially selected DSP platform, the XS-1 provides balanced polyphonic performance that feels natural and musical across all playing styles, pickup positions, and pedal setups. Your instrument’s attack and tonal character are fully preserved, and even complex chords and sustained lead tones—typically a challenge for pitch shifters—are reproduced with stunning clarity.

Redefining Pitch Shifting for Live Performance

Retuning during a performance means long pauses, instrument swaps, or pedal solutions that can colour the sound in undesirable ways. With the XS-1, you can shift tunings on demand and retain great sound, feel, and response—without ever breaking the momentum of a show. Authentically play songs in drop tunings, change keys to suit a vocalist’s range, create unique extended-range sounds, and more.

Wide Range, Simple Controls

Offering a range of +/- seven semitones and three octaves up or down, the XS-1 adapts to virtually any musical need. Thanks to the signature BOSS compact interface, dialing in sounds is fast and intuitive. With semitone tunings, you’ll usually want to set the Balance knob for effect only to avoid pitch conflicts. For octave shifts, use it to blend in the direct sound for 12-string effects, parallel guitar/bass sounds, and unexplored colours. There’s also a Detune mode to create evocative doubling effects with high-definition tone.

Supreme Creative Command

The XS-1 provides a variety of control options to meet your creative intent. With the flip of a panel control, you can assign the pedal switch for standard on/off toggle use or momentary operation. Connect up to two external footswitches for fast access to alternate tuning modes with your preferred Balance settings. Or add an expression pedal to transform the XS-1 into a dynamic pitch-bending tool for dramatic, ear-turning shifts.

Specifications

• AD conversion: 24 bits + AF method (AF method (Adaptive Focus method) This is a proprietary method from Roland & BOSS that vastly improves the signal-to-noise (SN) ratio of the AD and DA converters.)
• DA conversion: 32 bits
• Sampling Frequency: 48 kHz
• Nominal input level: -20 dBu
• Maximum Input Level: +7 dBu
• input impedance: 1 MΩ
• Nominal output level: -20 dBu
• Maximum output Level: +7 dBu
• output impedance: 1 kΩ
• Recommended load impedance: 10 kΩ or greater
• Bypass: Buffered bypass
• Controls: BALANCE knob, SHIFT knob, PEDAL MODE switch, SHIFT DIRECTION switch, Pedal switch
• Indicator: CHECK indicator (Used for check battery)
• Connectors: INPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type, OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type, CTL/EXP jack: 1/4-inch TRS phone type, DC IN jack
• Power supply: AC adaptor, Alkaline battery (6LR61 or 6LF22, commercially available) x 1
• Current draw: 120 mA
• Expected battery life under continuous use: Alkaline battery (6LR61): Approximately 3 hours (* This can vary depending on the specifications of the batteries, capacity of the batteries, and the conditions of use.)
• Dimensions: 73 (W) x 129 (D) x 59 (H) mm, 2-7/8 (W) x 5-1/8 (D) x 2-3/8 (H) inches
• Weight (including battery): 410 g, 15 oz
• Accessories: Leaflet (“USING THE UNIT SAFELY”, “IMPORTANT NOTES” and “Information”), Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61 or 6LF22)
• Options (sold separately): AC adaptor: PSA series, Footswitch: FS-5U, Dual footswitch: FS-6, FS-7
• Expression Pedal: EV-30, FV-500L, FV-500H, Roland EV-5
• * 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms