Photo of Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator and more gear in a pedalboard, guitar, and signal chain

Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator

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$124.11 to $164.99 Price Tier: Standard

4.0 (74)

7 Reviews

All time low price

Find out who is using Boss AC-3

13 community setups

49 wishlisted

178 saved

Page last updated Jul 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 7, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

3.5 (32)

$159.99

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4.0 (35)

$164.99 $138.30 $26.69 · All time low

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3.9 (380)

$137.80 New

$118.00 Used (Very Good)

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4.0 (72)

$124.11 70 available New

$62.54 76 available Used

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4.0 (86)

$164.99 $138.30 $26.69 · All time low

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4.5 (4)

$164.99

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$164.99

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4.0 (154)

$135.00 $133.00 $2.00 · All time low

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£125.50

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Average Price: $136

Standard/Professional

$50

$176+

Price Tier

In the Equalizer Effects Pedals category, Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Introducing the Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator, a compact pedal designed to transform the tone of your electric guitar into a variety of rich and authentic acoustic sounds. This lightweight and powerful device is an ideal solution for musicians who prefer to travel light without compromising on the quality of their sound.

One of the standout features of the AC-3 is the COSM Acoustic-Modeling technology. This innovative tech allows the pedal to simulate acoustic guitar sounds with exceptional precision and realism. The AC-3 comes with four simulation modes – Standard, Jumbo, Enhanced, and Piezo-equipped, each offering a unique sonic character.

The Piezo-equipped mode, in particular, provides that much-desired "cut through the mix" direct piezo sound. The AC-3 also includes top and body controls, allowing you to shape the characteristics of your acoustic sound quickly and easily with a simple twist of a knob.

Additionally, this pedal is equipped with a built-in digital reverb, adding depth and warmth to your sound. It offers versatile output paths, making it easy to connect to a standard guitar amp, a direct input device such as a PA, or a recorder.

Key Features:

COSM Acoustic-Modeling technology for precise and realistic acoustic simulations
Four simulation modes: Standard, Jumbo, Enhanced, and Piezo-equipped
Top and Body controls for shaping your acoustic sound
Built-in digital reverb for added depth and warmth
Versatile output paths for easy connection to various devices
Compact and lightweight design, ideal for musicians on the go

Owner's manual

Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator User Manual

Product specs

Pedal Type	Acoustic Simulator
Analog/Digital	Digital
Effects	Reverb
Presets	Standard, Jumbo, Enhanced, and Piezo
Inputs	1 x 1/4" (instrument)
Outputs	2 x 1/4" (amp out, line out)
Power Source	9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Batteries	1 x 9V
Height	2.4"
Width	2.9"
Depth	5.1"
Weight	0.9 lbs.

FAQs

What does the Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator do?: The Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator transforms the sound of an electric guitar into an acoustic-like tone, offering four modes: Standard, Jumbo, Enhanced, and Piezo, each simulating different acoustic guitar body types.
Can the Boss AC-3 be used with an acoustic-electric guitar?: Yes, the Boss AC-3 can be used with an acoustic-electric guitar to enhance its natural acoustic sound with additional reverb effects.
Does the Boss AC-3 require a power supply?: The Boss AC-3 requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately, or can be powered by a single 9V battery.
What are the output options on the Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator?: The Boss AC-3 features two 1/4" output options: one for connecting to an amplifier and another for direct line out, allowing versatile connection setups.
Is the Boss AC-3 suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Boss AC-3 is well-suited for live performances, providing a range of acoustic tones and reverb effects to enhance your electric guitar sound on stage.

Videos

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ProGuitarShopDemos

Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator

ProGuitarShopDemos

BOSS AC-3 Acoustic Simulator [BOSS Sound Check]

BOSSchannel

Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator Demo

ShuLorMakesMusic

♫ Boss AC3 Acoustic Simulator Demo ► (HD Audio)

TheRevelegendEMG

Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator

Chuck's Guitar Geekery

Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator Test

Andrew Step

Boss AC-3 ACOUSTIC SIMULATOR Demo Review USB Interface Recording.

Direct Recording Guitar

BOSS AC-3 Acoustic Simulator

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator Demo And Review

Kevys RC & Music

Reviews

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PROS

Versatile for live performances, especially in bands
Durable, withstands regular gigging
Both outputs offer AB box functionality
Can convincingly simulate an acoustic sound
Preset modes and tone knobs provide customization
Effective through PA or acoustic amplifier
Can reduce the number of guitars needed for gigs
Reverb feature adds depth to sound
Encourages creative setups and solutions

CONS

Requires direct connection to PA for best sound, limiting use with guitar amps
Notable hiss/background noise, especially at high frequencies
Sound can feel "processed" or digital
Tone knobs and settings require fine-tuning to avoid hiss
May not fully replicate the feel of an acoustic guitar
Some users experience issues with digital fizz
High-end sounds can be overly metallic or unrealistic
Stereo inputs and better control options desired by some users
Not universally suitable, especially for certain guitar types and music genres
Battery consumption is high

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss AC-3 Acoustic Simulator.

Features and functionality

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The REVERB control on the Boss AC-3 is subtle when placed later in the chain but can add significant reverb and volume boost when placed first.
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The AC-3 algorithm is included in Boss's GX-10/100, which can be optimized with preamp and EQ adjustments for better acoustic emulation.
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Running the AC-3's acoustic output to a mixer while maintaining a separate "normal" guitar chain allows seamless switching and enhanced FX integration.
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The AC-3 can output a very "hot" or "spikey" signal, which might not pair well with certain pedals like the Boss DC-2 or MXR phasers.
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Setup and maintenance

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Placing the AC-3 first in the signal chain, before the tuner and wah, improves functionality and reduces noise, acting more like an envelope filter.
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Comparisons

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Users find the AC-3's sounds better than Amplitube's Acoustic Sim pedal, preferring it with Mesa MKIII settings for virtual setups.
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Some users find the AC-2 to be more effective than the AC-3 in delivering desired acoustic tones.
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Alternatives like the Joyo Wooden Sound and Hotone's acoustic pedals are considered by some as decent low-cost options.
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For a Strat-like single coil sound, users recommend using an HSH guitar configuration in position 2 (middle single + bridge humbucker).
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Use cases and applications

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Works best with humbuckers using the bridge pickup and tone knob rolled back for a closer acoustic simulation.
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The AC-3 is effective for live performances where carrying an acoustic guitar for a few songs isn't practical.
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Enhance mode on the AC-3 closely replicates Alex Lifeson's late 80s Rush clean tones, especially when used with EMG active single coil pickups.
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Software and compatibility

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Running the AC-3 through a clean amp channel or directly into an audio interface is recommended for optimal sound and minimal noise.
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User experience

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The pedal produces a piezo-like sound that some users describe as "quacky," which might suit particular tastes or styles.
Source

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 74 Ratings

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1 star

simon_j_dodd

295

3 months ago

Why is this still the best option?

When Apple released the "trashcan" Mac Pro, it was an impressive machine. By the time of its long overdue retirement, it was an embarrassment. The Boss AC-3 is of a piece. It was, on its release, an amazing accomplishment—but how can it be that after literally twenty years, this is still the best we can do? Look, it gets the job done; no doubt. It's adequate. But I refuse to believe that Boss can't do better in 2026, and I resent that Boss hasn't done better with an AC-4. When they do, I'll hate-buy it. Until then, I'll make do with this pedal, that was once impressive and is now just okay.

Roles:

Guitarist

Genres:

Rock Pop Blues

From Gear Setup

eoin_jennings

721

over 8 years ago

useful pedal to have but has some imperfections

look - its never going to sound like a Martin, but can get some decent acoustic emulation out of an electric. Get some glitches on some modes and high volumes can be a problem - but if you work within the limitations it does a job