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Average Price: $95

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$150

$601+

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Description

Introducing the Boss BE-5 Guitar Multiple Effects, a harmonious combination of diverse sound effects packed into a single unit. An early foray into the multi-effects domain by Boss, this piece of gear boasts a luscious Chorus, a crisp noise gate, a rhythmic Digital Delay, a fiery Overdrive, and a smooth Compressor. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, this pedal can help you create a symphony of tones, giving you the freedom to explore and express your musical creativity.

Key Features:

  • All-in-one multi-effects unit offering a wide range of sound possibilities
  • Features a lush Chorus for creating a rich, layered sound
  • Includes a noise gate for reducing unwanted noise and improving sound clarity
  • Boasts a rhythmic Digital Delay for creating depth and ambiance
  • Offers a fiery Overdrive for boosting gain and creating a warm, fuzzy sound
  • Comes with a smooth Compressor for controlling volume dynamics

Product specs

Brand Boss
Model BE-5 Multi-Effect Unit
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Categories Multi-Effects Pedals and Processors

FAQs

What effects are included in the Boss BE-5 Guitar Multiple Effects unit?

The Boss BE-5 includes a chorus, noise gate, digital delay, overdrive, and compressor, providing a versatile range of effects for guitarists in a single unit.

Is the Boss BE-5 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Boss BE-5 is designed to be used in live settings, offering multiple effects in a compact format, making it convenient for on-stage use.

Can the Boss BE-5 be powered using a standard 9V adapter?

Yes, the Boss BE-5 can be powered with a standard 9V DC power adapter, such as the Boss PSA-120S, ensuring reliable performance.

Does the Boss BE-5 have a built-in tuner?

No, the Boss BE-5 does not include a built-in tuner, so you'll need a separate tuner pedal or device for tuning your guitar.

How does the overdrive in the Boss BE-5 compare to standalone Boss overdrive pedals?

The overdrive in the BE-5 offers classic Boss tone, similar to standalone models, but it may have slight tonal differences due to its integration with other effects in the unit.

yococ14

yococ14

Demo du Boss BE-5 guitar multi effects

Video thumbnail for Demo du Boss BE-5 guitar multi effects by yococ14

Demo du Boss BE-5 guitar multi effects

yococ14

yococ14

Video thumbnail for Boss BE-5 -  Mojo Stompboxes by TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Boss BE-5 - Mojo Stompboxes

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Video thumbnail for The First Boss Multi FX Pedal? - Boss BE5 History & Demo by Dan Leggatt

The First Boss Multi FX Pedal? - Boss BE5 History & Demo

Dan Leggatt

Dan Leggatt

Video thumbnail for How to get 5 Made In Japan Boss Pedals for under £100 ? Get the BE-5 Amazing Multi Effects Unit by Matthew North Music

How to get 5 Made In Japan Boss Pedals for under £100 ? Get the BE-5 Amazing Multi Effects Unit

Matthew North Music

Matthew North Music

Video thumbnail for Boss BE-5 : bargain multi-effect for your 303 :) by gwEm’s gwEmbassy

Boss BE-5 : bargain multi-effect for your 303 :)

gwEm’s gwEmbassy

gwEm’s gwEmbassy

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional vintage sound quality, especially the chorus and delay

  • Practical for gigging; easy to use with no complicated programming

  • Durable plastic housing withstands regular use

  • Includes an effects loop for additional pedal integration

  • Stereo out feature enhances sound when using multiple amps

  • Combines five classic Boss pedals in one unit

  • Works well with both guitars and keyboards

CONS

  • Overdrive effect can be harsh and lacks the warmth of the original OD-1

  • No presets or banks for easy sound switching

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss BE-5 Guitar Multiple Effects.

Build quality

  • The BE-5 is noted for its plastic casing and weak switches, contrasting with the sturdier build of typical Boss stompboxes.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some users contemplate replacing the plastic enclosure with a more robust build or integrating it into a loop switcher for enhanced durability.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners recall that the chorus and distortion effects were particularly useful during their early playing years.

    Source
  • Many users appreciate the BE-5 for its nostalgic value, especially those who were active in the music scene during the early '90s.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Although not frequently used, the BE-5 is considered a worthwhile acquisition, often found at garage sales for around $20, with potential resale values between $80-100 on platforms like Reverb.

    Source
  • Owners find the BE-5 to be a good deal at around $100, considering the vintage circuits it offers.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Inserting a dummy jack into the stereo out transforms the chorus effect into a tremolo/vibe, offering unexpected versatility.

    Source
  • The BE-5 integrates circuits from the CS-3, CE-3, DD-2/3, and an unspecified overdrive/distortion pedal, along with a basic but useful noise gate.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A cracked solder joint in the stereo chorus jack was resolved by reflowing, restoring the unit's full functionality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The BE-5 is considered ideal for an '80s cover band, reflecting its period-specific sound palette and effect options.

    Source
  • Suitable for achieving classic '80s tones, the BE-5 offers period-specific sounds ideal for covering music from that era.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BE-5 is likened to having four '80s Boss pedals in one unit, making it a compact alternative to individual pedals.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jo_hannes_g

Great Boss tones in a small package

Vintage multi effect unit with no presets, no banks, no menu, dates back to ca. 1989/90. Even if the housing is plastic, no problem - the plastic is stable. All effects are exceptionally good. The chorus sounds very lush and warm also the delay. The os 2 can be set from mild to full on distortion.

Contains following Boss pedals: Compression Sustainer - CS-3 Overdrive/Distortion - OS-2 Digital Delay - early version of the DD-3 Chorus - CE-3

jimmarchi1

I had no idea Boss made their version of that giant, all analog Ibanez multi-effect from the 9 series... this is very cool. I sued to have an OS2 and its easily Boss' most underrated dirt box. I always enjoyed that thing. Wish I ahd looked inside her, come to think of it now.

jo_hannes_g

These are not easy to find. However they have a version where you can store settings (but mostly still analoge).

ecco_aqua

Amazing Vintage Multi FX Unit

The tones this box makes are amazing, it's like an instant throwback to the 80s especially in regards to the chorus. Works great on keyboards as well

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Boss BE-5 Guitar Multiple Effects, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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