Cutting-edge noise reduction
Background noise can be a problem with guitar and bass, especially with high-gain setups. The NS-1X’s exclusive MDP technology delivers fast, transparent operation in every situation, eliminating the artificial attack and decay artifacts sometimes present with traditional noise reduction systems. High-speed digital technology analyzes the input signal in real time across multiple levels, enabling ultra-precise processing that provides the ideal noise reduction for all playing styles and stages.
Maximum versatility
The NS-1X features several operating modes to adjust noise reduction to your needs.
Reduction: This mode provides smooth noise reduction compatible with most instruments and playing styles. Note decay is natural and noise-free with all pickup types, including low-output single coils.
Gate: Ideal for high-gain sounds, this mode instantly cuts the sound when no signal is present. The MDP pedal delivers lightning-fast responsiveness unmatched by other noise reduction pedals. It ensures a natural feel and punchy attack, ideal for percussive djent riffs, sweep picking, and legato tapping techniques.
Mute: This mode turns the pedal's bypass into a convenient mute switch for instrument changes, tuning, and breaks. The NS-1X operates in Reduction or Gate mode when the switch is off; the mode is assignable by a simple power-up procedure.
Simple and fast operation
Thanks to its intuitive controls and multi-LED indicator, you can set your ideal noise reduction profile in seconds.
Threshold: Determines the level at which noise reduction activates. In Reduction mode, start at the lowest position and turn the knob clockwise until the noise disappears. In Gate mode, start at the highest position and turn the knob down gradually until you get the attack that suits you.
Decay: Determines when the selected mode reaches its maximum noise reduction. Start at the lowest setting, then turn the knob clockwise if necessary to obtain a more natural decay.
Damp: This setting controls the maximum level of noise reduction. Higher settings strengthen and clarify the effect. Lower settings attenuate the effect, which can provide a more natural sound for certain playing styles.
Reduction indicator: Displays the current level of noise reduction.
Precise detection
The NS-1X circuit detects the signal at the input and activates noise reduction at the output. It works optimally when your instrument is connected directly to the input, before any other pedals. For distortion, overdrive, and other noise-generating pedals, insert them into the NS-1X's send/return loop for a more natural result. The circuit thus continuously detects the clean input signal while eliminating noise from the pedals in the loop, for seamless operation when switching on and off.
Optimal noise reduction for guitar, bass, and other instruments
Thanks to its advanced digital processing and wide frequency response, the NS-1X delivers exceptional performance for standard guitars and basses, as well as extended-range string instruments. It also serves as an excellent noise suppression solution for keyboards and other electronic instruments.
MDP: Advanced technology, superior tone
The result of decades of research and development, BOSS’s exclusive Multi-Dimensional Processing (MDP) technology offers an innovative approach to achieving exceptional tones. In real time, MDP analyzes the various elements that make up the sound, including frequency, harmonics, dynamics, pickup response, and more. Different playing characteristics are also analyzed, such as register, single notes versus chords, bends, vibrato, etc. Each element is then processed individually to produce optimized tones while you play. With its high-tech, ultra-precise approach, MDP offers sound quality and playability that far exceed the limits of traditional effect processing.
Features
Next-generation noise suppressor and gate for guitar, bass, and other electronic musical instruments
Intelligent BOSS MDP technology eliminates noise without altering playing feel or responsiveness
Intuitive operation with Threshold, Decay, and Damp knobs
Reduction mode for general noise suppression
Gate mode offers ultra-fast noise suppression for tapping, sweep picking, and heavy rhythmic styles requiring high-gain sounds
Mute mode to cut the instrument signal when the pedal is engaged (the pedal operates in user-selectable Reduction or Gate mode when the switch is disengaged)
Reduction indicator dynamically displaying the current noise suppression status
Send/Return loop for optimal noise suppression with overdrives, distortions, and other noise-generating pedals
DC output to power other pedals
(Requires optional PSA adapter and PCS-20A parallel cable)
Five-year BOSS warranty
Specifications
Sampling Rate
48 kHz
AD Conversion
24 bits + AF method
AF method (Adaptive Focus method): This is a proprietary method from Roland and BOSS that significantly improves the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of the AD converter.
DA Conversion
32 bits
Processing
32-bit floating point
Modes
3 modes: GATE, REDUCTION, and MUTE
Nominal Input Level
INPUT, RETURN: -20 dBu
Maximum Input Level
INPUT, RETURN: +7 dBu
Input Impedance
INPUT, RETURN: 1 MΩ
Nominal Output Level
OUTPUT, SEND: -20 dBu
Maximum Output Level
OUTPUT, SEND: +7 dBu
Output Impedance
OUTPUT, SEND: 1 kΩ
Recommended Load Impedance
OUTPUT, SEND: ≥ 10 kΩ
Bypass
Buffered bypass
Controls
MODE knob
DECAY knob
THRESHOLD knob
DAMP knob
Pedal switch
Indicators
CHECK indicator (serves also as battery check indicator)
REDUCTION indicator
Connectors
INPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
RETURN jack: 1/4-inch phone type
OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
SEND jack: 1/4-inch phone type
DC IN jack
DC OUT jack
Power Supply
Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61)
AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately)
Current Draw
60 mA
Expected battery life under continuous use (these figures will vary depending on actual conditions of use.)
Alkaline battery: Approx. 6.5 hours
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):
460 g
Accessories:
Leaflet ("USING THE UNIT SAFELY," "IMPORTANT NOTES," and "Information")
Dry battery (9 V, 6LR61)
Option (sold separately):
AC adaptor: PSA series
* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms