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Average Price: $550

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$60

$201+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

Bring the iconic touch of the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble to your music. Launched in 1976, the CE-1 is a classic piece of gear that helped shape the sound of countless hits. With its sturdy chassis and independent chorus/vibrato effects, this pedal offers a rich, warm, analog effect that has been cherished by musicians for decades. Whether you're a guitarist, bassist, or keyboard player, the CE-1 can infuse your sound with a touch of vintage magic.

Key Features:

  • Boss CE-1 is one of the first chorus/vibrato effect pedals
  • Sturdy die-hard chassis for long-lasting durability
  • Features Bucket Brigade Driver chip for a warm, analog effect
  • Provides independent chorus and vibrato effects
  • Ideal for guitar, bass, and keys
  • Timeless original, launched in 1976 by Roland's Boss division

Product specs

Brand Boss
Model CE-1 Chorus Ensemble
Finish Grey
Year 1976 - 1977
Made In Japan
Categories Chorus and Vibrato

FAQs

What type of circuit does the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble use?

The Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble uses an analog BBD (Bucket Brigade Device) circuit, which was groundbreaking at its release in 1976, offering rich and warm chorus and vibrato effects.

Can the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble be used in stereo?

Yes, the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble can be used in both stereo and mono configurations, allowing for versatile setup options to enhance your sound.

What additional effect does the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble offer besides chorus?

In addition to chorus, the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble also features a vibrato effect, providing users with more modulation options.

Is the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble suitable for modern pedalboards?

While the Boss CE-1 is a larger pedal due to its vintage design, it remains a sought-after piece for its unique sound, although it may require more space on modern pedalboards.

What is the power requirement for the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble?

The Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble requires a specific AC power supply, as it was designed before the standardization of 9V DC power supplies common in modern pedals.

Reverb

Reverb

Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble: Andy's Vintage Picks | Reverb Tone Report

Video thumbnail for Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble: Andy's Vintage Picks | Reverb Tone Report by Reverb

Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble: Andy's Vintage Picks | Reverb Tone Report

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble demo by Pacafeliz

Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble demo

Pacafeliz

Pacafeliz

Video thumbnail for Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble Demo by Joe Perkins

Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble Demo

Joe Perkins

Joe Perkins

Video thumbnail for Now I get it!! - Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble by TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Now I get it!! - Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Video thumbnail for Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble - The Buffer Trick by Joe Perkins

Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble - The Buffer Trick

Joe Perkins

Joe Perkins

Video thumbnail for Viewer Request #1: Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble In Stereo by Joe Perkins

Viewer Request #1: Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble In Stereo

Joe Perkins

Joe Perkins

Video thumbnail for BOSS - CE-1 Chorus Ensemble by Bass Stuff

BOSS - CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Bass Stuff

Bass Stuff

Video thumbnail for Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble by Christophe Pons

Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Christophe Pons

Christophe Pons

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique, lush chorus sound unmatched by other units

  • Built-in preamp allows for overdriven fuzz sound

  • Durable build quality, has lasted decades for some users

  • Stereo outputs enhance the chorus effect

  • Adds a desirable 'crunch' to the signal

  • Vibrato effect praised alongside the chorus

  • Depth of effect surpasses later models and competitors

CONS

  • Large size takes up significant pedalboard space

  • Cannot be powered by standard 9V or 12V without an adapter

  • Some find the circuitry and footswitch design misleading

  • May introduce noise issues, requiring careful setup to avoid ground loops

  • Bright, jangly sound may clash with desired dirty tones

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble.

Comparisons

  • Mr. Black's Stereo Vintage Ensemble is another alternative, though it's often compared less favorably to PastFX options.

    Source
  • The Horrothia Type One, another CE-1 clone without a preamp, is noted for higher LFO sweep making it sound brighter, yet not quieter than the CE-2w.

    Source
  • The UAFX Astra's Brigade Chorus model offers the best digital CE-1 recreation with warm, lush sound but lacks dimensionality compared to Retro-Sonic.

    Source
  • The Retro-Sonic Chorus Stereo Edition, a true CE-1 recreation, is praised for reduced distortion compared to PastFX, possibly due to omitting the preamp.

    Source
  • The PastFX Chorus Ensemble Deluxe is frequently mentioned as the closest replica to the original Boss CE-1, offering additional features like a preamp.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The CE-2w's depth knob setting at 2:00 mimics the authentic CE-1 depth, with users finding this setting provides the best tonal match.

    Source
  • The CE-2w in CE-1 mode offers unity gain output without a preamp, providing a clean, lush sound without high-end rolloff.

    Source
  • The Retro-Sonic Chorus Stereo Edition darkens the tone slightly by rolling off high frequencies, even with buffered input.

    Source
  • The Boss CE-1 maintains a unique analog charm and crunch that many boutique reproductions aim to emulate, favored for its classic sound on records and live shows.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A D’addario Loknob Tour Cap is used to lock the CE-2w's depth knob at desired settings, preventing accidental changes during use.

    Source
  • Changing the input pot from 50k to 500k can enhance guitar tone, but preserving original parts for resale value is recommended.

    Source

User experience

  • VRM Effects in Brazil offers a version with a preamp, praised for its quality, adding another international option for CE-1 enthusiasts.

    Source
  • Mixed experiences with Triungulo Lab CE-1 replicas, ranging from satisfaction with the sound quality to frustration with customer service and build issues.

    Source
  • Some owners of PastFX pedals reported receiving complimentary items like Tim Tams with their orders, adding a personal touch to the buying experience.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate its historical significance and distinctive sound, often comparing it favorably even against newer iterations like the CE-2W.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Works well when used with a buffer before it, preserving its tonal characteristics and enhancing its performance in a signal chain.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A non-modded Boss CE-1 from the 1970s can be found on Reverb around $500, highlighting its status as a valuable vintage piece.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Classic Gear: Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble | GuitarPlayer

guitarplayer.com

The Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble, introduced in 1976, is hailed as a groundbreaking pedal in the world of guitar effects. Lauded for its lush, rich sound, it remains a benchmark for chorus pedals, delivering a thick, spatial effect that shines in both mono and stereo setups. The CE-1 set the standard for the use of bucket-brigade devices, contributing to its legendary status. However, its bulky design and reliance on hardwired AC power might deter some modern users accustomed to compact, battery-powered pedals. Despite this, its iconic sound continues to inspire, making it a much-coveted piece of gear.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 5 Reviews and 40 Ratings

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daonlybg

Love the 80s? This will take you back further than VH-1 can.

This pedal's chorus is as legit as it gets. The chorus not only sounds great and has the appropriate tone to complement the effect- but the depth that the pedal provides puts other respectable chorus pedals to shame, even the subsequent 80s chorus stomp boxes that Boss produced. The CE-2 is nice, ladies and gentlemen, but put it next to a CE-1 and you'll never be satisfied with the CE-2 again, knowing that there's a superior chorus out there. The difference justifies the price tag. The only negative thing about this pedal is the circuitry. The foot switches themselves are misleading and you can't exactly turn on the vibrato without turning on the chorus. At the end of the day, though, this is comfortably the best chorus sound on the market.

alex_cavani

The legend.

What I can say about this pedal? It's incredible: it does only two things and it's the best at doing them. A legendary pedal that I feel lucky to own!

tinusbolus

There is Chorus... and there is CE-1 Chorus. Unbelievable...

The Chorus is really fantastic. What I also like about the pedal is that it adds some 'crunch' to your signal (With the Level knob at 2 and the button on high impedance). The Vibrato side is also very good. Build quality and looks of a tank. I love it!

bendeguz_rendes

Fckn amazing

Crunch, punch, sexy chorus and pretty dope vibrato. Good to have that stereo out too.

joe_wright4920

this is a good pedal

makes a bright jangly sound that contradicts the dirty tone i get

jimmarchi1

You have an original CE-1? damn those are hard to come by

joe_wright4920

my dad got off a mate for christmas

Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Frusciante uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

John Frusciante

Guitarist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via Jfeffects

He has used the CE1 for all he's career for main chorus sound. I think he used also the CE2 but can't find nothing. This photo is from the Californication's recording sessions, but this pedal can be seen in every live video and pedalboard pic.

See how Kevin Parker uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Kevin Parker

Singer, Guitarist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via Imgur

Tame Impala played Jimmy Fallon on 8-12-2011 performing the song "Why Won't You Make Up Your Mind". At 3:14 you can see a vintage Boss CE-1 in the upper left corner https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BRVdCQ2wu4Y You can also see the Boss CE-1 in the upper left corner of this photo http://images.equipboard.com/uploads/source/image/7381/big_tame.jpg?v=1417628443

See how Alex Turner uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Alex Turner

Guitarist

Arctic Monkeys

...
Verified via Photo

Alex Turner is seen using the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble Pedal in his pedalboard during the Humbug tour. This Boss pedal has been used since their 2009 - 2010 Humbug tour, no evidence of it being used after this era.

See how Eric Clapton uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Bonhams

According to the lot notes from Bonhams auction house website, Eric Clapton used the Ibanez HD1000 Harmonics/Delay, a DBX 160 compressor, a model SDE-3000 Roland delay, a Dyno-My-Piano Tri Stereo Chorus, a Boss CE-1 chorus, and a Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal for his Bob Bradshaw rack system in the mid to late 1980s.

See how Dimebag Darrell uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Dimebag Darrell

Guitarist

Pantera

...
Verified via guitarworld

Used on The Great Southern Treadkill, as stated in this June 1996 Guitar World interview.

You've got a huge pile of effects boxes in the studio. Aside from the ones you've already mentioned, what other units did you use?

I hooked up my MXR Flanger/Doubler every once in a while and I used an E-Bow for a real smooth, continual sustain on "10's." I also used one of those little Korg Pandora boxes for a weird, fluttering sound on a short passage in "10's" and a Lexicon Vortex for the shimmering, breathy tone on my theme-like lead in "The Underground in America."

I also used a Roland AP-2 Phase II pedal, a KorgAX30G, a Digitech Whammy pedal, of course!, a Boss CE1 Chorus and a bunch of old Electro-Harmonix shit -- a Small Stone Phaser, an Electric Mistress Flanger/Filter Matrix, a Little Big Muff and a Soul Preacher Compressor/Sustainer. I also used a Korg G1 on the demos and some of that made it on the record. If l can't beat a part of the demo we'II just extract that small section and use it. The G1 is a bad-sounding little unit, man.

There's some wah on the record, too.

Shit, I almost forgot about that! I used my Vox Wah on the earlier part of the recording and then Jimmy Dunlop sent me one of his rack-mount units [Crybaby DCR-1SR]. Man, that thing is incredible, you can literally get whatever you want out of it. I also really like the idea that you can run a bunch of Wah pedals all over the place on stage with it so you're not always tied to that one spot. The only uncool thing about it is that Rex [Brown, bassist] will be dicking me off every night 'cause he'll be jumping on my pedals all the time!

See how Aphex Twin uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Aphex Twin

Music Producer

The Tuss

...
Verified via Photo

Appears on the equipment list used to make Syro.

See how Brian May uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Brian May

Keyboardist, Guitarist

Queen

...
Verified via Petecornish

BRIAN MAY's 1982 SYSTEM

The second stage system that I designed and built for Brian May during the Queen years was, from the Guitar:

Pete Cornish Line Driver (on Guitar strap): 100ft special cable with power for Line Driver Pete Cornish Treble Boost Pete Cornish Treble Boost #2 with bypass switch Foxx Phaser with bypass switch Pete Cornish Line Driver and Hum Loop Buster to Clean Amps (3 X AC30 - Normal Channel) Foxx output also to MXR DDL II (#1) then 3 X Delay #1 Amps via Line Driver and Hum Loop Buster Foxx also to MXR DDL II (#2) then 3 X Delay #2 Amps via Line Driver and Hum Loop Buster Foxx also to Roland CE-1 (seriously modified by Pete Cornish) then 3X Chorus Amps.

The above all built in two units - a pedalboard on stage and a large rack unit off stage (behind the AC30s) as was pictured in the August 1986 copy of Guitarist (USA) - check it out.

N.B. Brian May always used the volume control on his guitar to reduce the drive into the Treble Boost for quiet numbers and the second Treble Boost was used for solo boosts. Oh - and the “Cry Baby” in his pedal board is the “Foxx Phaser” speed control. The other pedal is for controlling the Eventide Harmoniser (part of the P.A.) for certain solos.

See how Joe Satriani uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Joe Satriani

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified

Listed among Satriani's gear in the April 1989 Musician interview "The Devil And Joe Satriani" by Ted Drozdowski.

SATCH'S BOOTY

WITH HIS band, Joe Satriani plays custom Ibanez guitars with DiMarzio pickups and D'Addario strings. His amplifiers are Marshalls, usually a pair of 100-watt heads driving two 4x12 cabinets. "The amps are run clean. I've got a compressor in-line but I don't really use it. I use an Ibanez digital reverb, some Ibanez digital delay, a Cry Baby, different distortion pedals and a Boss CE-1 chorus, the rack I have is really filled with a lot of back-up stuff: an extra chorus, a Randall amp/pre-amp that I can use if my pedals don't work, a t.c. electronic delay. It's really low-tech, inexpensive, cheap, simple."

With Jagger, Satriani plays a Strat: actually a hybrid of Fender, Tokai, DiMarzio and Ibanez parts with a 1954 Fender neck courtesy of Joe's guitar tech, Pierre de Beauport of New York City. His main amp's a Marshall, but there's a Roland JC-120 with a Boss delay tucked away for 'Midnight'. He also uses a t.c. 2290. "It's got all sorts of loops that allow you to program whole sections. So Pierre, who has a script, can just punch me in and out of these little patches so I can get louder or softer, or there'd be some delay. I wanted to keep the stage as clean as possible."

When he's writing, Satriani uses a four-track Tascam Porta-studio. "I've got some Rockman gear and an array of cheap pedals at home. That's about it. Plus a lot of basses, synthesizers, guitars and cassettes lying around."

See how Geddy Lee uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

...
Verified via 2112

In this guitar player magazine from 1980, Geddy mentions a Boss chorus. Judging by the fact that Alex used a Ce-1, it's probably one of those.

"No. I don't use any effects on my bass, except for a Boss Chorus on perhaps one song in the course of a concert. "

See how Josh Klinghoffer uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Josh Klinghoffer

Singer, Guitarist

Pearl Jam

...
Verified via Eye Opener

According to this website he currently uses the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble Pedal on the Getaway tour.

See how Troy Van Leeuwen uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Troy Van Leeuwen

Guitarist

Queens of the Stone Age

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this May 5, 2019 interview on the website for Stompbox: 100 Pedals of the World’s Greatest Guitarists.

Also on hand is a bevy of modulation options. “I used chorus all over the place with Failure and A Perfect Circle,” Van Leeuwen admits. “I went away from it in Queens, but it’s come back there, and on some Sweethead stuff." (...) “This is the classic Boss Chorus Ensemble – yes, I’ve been told it’s one that has the ‘good chip,’” Van Leeuwen says. “It’s basically the ‘80s in a box. It’s really lush, what it does – especially running it in stereo.”

See how Yngwie Malmsteen uses Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble

Yngwie Malmsteen

Guitarist, Bassist

The G3 Jam

...
Verified via YouTube

At 1:49, you can see the Boss CE-1 on the top of his pedal board

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer
Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer Compressor Effects Pedals
4
Boss CE-2 Chorus
Boss CE-2 Chorus Chorus Effects Pedals
4
Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer
Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer Overdrive Effects Pedals
3
Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus
Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus Combo Guitar Amplifiers
3
MXR M101 Phase 90
MXR M101 Phase 90 Phaser Effects Pedals
3
Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal
Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal Distortion Effects Pedals
3
Boss DS-1 Distortion
Boss DS-1 Distortion Distortion Effects Pedals
3
Boss SD-1 Super OverDrive
Boss SD-1 Super OverDrive Overdrive Effects Pedals
3

Community setups

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benjamindehli

benjamindehli

Gear IQ 136

synthee

synthee

Gear IQ 449

guitarmarco

guitarmarco

Gear IQ 200

artbarsnstripes

artbarsnstripes

Gear IQ 655

18 alternative and related items for Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble, curated by the Equipboard community.

Boss CE-2W Chorus Waza Craft

$210.50 - $241.99

newer

To commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the CE-1, BOSS released the CE-2W, able to perfectly replicate the sound of the original CE-1 or the CE-2

Warm Audio WA-C1 Stereo Chorus/Vibrato Pedal

$187.86 - $212.00

similar sound cheaper alternative mod

A more affordable, modernized clone of the original CE-1.

Boss CE-2 Chorus

$161.66

Vintage or Discontinued newer

In 1979, the CE-2 brought the original effect present in the CE-1 to the iconic compact stomp box design.

Lemon & Ginger CE Preamp

 

similar sound cheaper alternative

A boutique clone of the CE-1's preamp, in pedal form.

PastFx Chorus Ensemble MN3007

 

similar sound cheaper alternative

A modern recreation of the CE-1, featuring more readily available MN3007 BBD chips.

PastFx CE-1 preamp

 

similar sound cheaper alternative

A clone of the CE-1's legendary preamp, that can be used as a standalone gain pedal.

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