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Average Price: $127

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$100

$301+

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Description

Unleash the power of dual functionality with the Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay pedal, an exquisite blend of vintage charm and modern capabilities. A rare gem from the late '80s and early '90s, this pedal combines individual pitch-shifting and delay features in a unique harmony. Whether you're chasing the nostalgia of classic tones or crafting your distinct sound, the PS-2 is your reliable partner. With six different modes and adjustable controls, you manage the balance between each effect and your original signal, shaping your musical journey with precision and creativity.

Key Features:

  • Dual functionality pedal offering individual pitch shifting and delay capabilities
  • Comes with six distinct modes: 125ms delay, 500ms delay, 2 second delay, manual pitch shift, up an octave, and down an octave
  • Adjustable knobs for controlling the balance and feedback in your effects
  • Vintage model manufactured in the late '80s and early '90s
  • Allows a high level of customization for crafting unique sounds
  • Ideal for both classic tones and modern soundscapes

Product specs

Brand Boss
Model PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay (Blue Label)
Finish Blue
Year 1987 - 1992
Made In Japan
Categories Delay Pedals, Octave and Pitch-Shifting Pedals
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What are the main functions of the Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay?

The Boss PS-2 combines pitch shifting and digital delay effects in one pedal, allowing you to shift pitches and create echo effects. It offers multiple delay modes and the ability to shift pitches up or down, making it versatile for various musical applications.

How does the pitch shifting feature of the Boss PS-2 work?

The pitch shifting feature of the Boss PS-2 allows you to adjust the pitch of your input signal, creating harmonies or detuned effects. You can shift pitches in semitone increments to achieve the desired sound.

Can the Boss PS-2 be used for both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Boss PS-2 is suitable for use with both guitar and bass. Its pitch shifting and delay effects can enhance the sound of either instrument, offering creative possibilities for musicians.

What power supply does the Boss PS-2 require?

The Boss PS-2 requires a 9V DC power supply, commonly used with many standard guitar pedals. It can also run on a 9V battery for portable use.

Is the Boss PS-2 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Boss PS-2 is designed for live use, offering reliable performance and easy control over pitch shifting and delay effects. Its sturdy construction and intuitive interface make it a popular choice for gigging musicians.

Pepe Music

Pepe Music

BOSS PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay Demo

Video thumbnail for BOSS PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay Demo by Pepe Music

BOSS PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay Demo

Pepe Music

Pepe Music

Video thumbnail for Slowdive & The Boss PS-2 Pitch Shifter/Delay by pedal partners

Slowdive & The Boss PS-2 Pitch Shifter/Delay

pedal partners

pedal partners

Video thumbnail for BOSS PS 2 Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay (1980's) by intheblues

BOSS PS 2 Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay (1980's)

intheblues

intheblues

Video thumbnail for Boss PS-2 (as used by Slowdive, Stars of The Lid & Mono) ~ in depth demo by pedal partners

Boss PS-2 (as used by Slowdive, Stars of The Lid & Mono) ~ in depth demo

pedal partners

pedal partners

Video thumbnail for Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay by Pedal of the Day

Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay

Pedal of the Day

Pedal of the Day

Video thumbnail for BOSS PS-2 DIGITAL PITCH SHIFTER/DELAY by KRAZEEIZATION

BOSS PS-2 DIGITAL PITCH SHIFTER/DELAY

KRAZEEIZATION

KRAZEEIZATION

Video thumbnail for BOSS PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter Delay 1990 Vintage Made in Japan F/S Tested by Honpo Nori-chan

BOSS PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter Delay 1990 Vintage Made in Japan F/S Tested

Honpo Nori-chan

Honpo Nori-chan

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique effect on repeats, offering cold and tinny textures

  • Offers a lot of texture and sound sculpting options

  • Versatile with manual mode for experimental sounds

  • Quiet operation, does not raise noise-floor in signal chain

  • Suitable for use with keyboards, particularly effective with piano and Rhodes

  • Capable of producing chorus-like tones and beautiful low-fi sounds

  • Delay settings allow for controlled oscillation and delay loops

  • Features an interesting octaver for shimmer type sounds

CONS

  • May require servicing or repairs due to age

  • Bypassed tone might introduce low level distortion

  • Not all musicians may appreciate the colder, tinnier repeats

  • Delay degradation quicker compared to newer models

  • Some users find it challenging to use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay.

Features and functionality

  • The PS-2's delay has a unique metallic drone effect at shorter delay times, resembling a sitar, particularly with guitar use.

    Source
  • The pedal has a noticeable lag when adjusting delay time, leading to a cascading drone effect with time-stretched and detuned repeats.

    Source
  • Octave up shifts are bright and metallic, offering a shimmer reverb-like sensation, unlike modern pitch shifters.

    Source
  • The PS-2 is described as having a quirky yet usable character, offering a unique lo-fi digital delay with a degradation of repeats, reminiscent of analog delays but without interference in playing.

    Source
  • Serial number 845800 is a key identifier for PS-2 units without high-frequency noise, offering a cleaner sound compared to earlier models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Early PS-2 units suffer from high-frequency noise, which can be modified by changing three capacitors.

    Source
  • To verify if a pre-845800 PS-2 has been modded, it's advisable to inspect for resoldering or compare capacitors against modified units.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The PS-2's delays are lo-fi and high-pass, differing significantly from the DD-3, which is described as more straightforward and less interesting.

    Source
  • The PS-3 is recommended over the PS-2 for those seeking a chirpy shimmer effect, as used by the band Cave In, indicating distinct tonal differences between these models.

    Source
  • A user highlighted that PS-2 models from December '89 still exhibit the noisy oscillation, contrary to claims that November '87 models onward were fixed.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The PS-2 excels in creating lo-fi sounds with octave down settings, especially when used with heavy gain.

    Source
  • Users have successfully paired the PS-2 with a Tube Screamer to achieve Slowdive-like tones, highlighting its compatibility with other effects for shoegaze-style music.

    Source
  • Owners report achieving a "Cocaine Slapback" sound, a term associated with the JHS Maxon Fireblade pedals, showcasing the PS-2's versatility in replicating iconic effects.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners suggest being cautious with spending; it's worth buying if the specific sound it offers is desired, especially if found at a deal.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A user modified a spare wah pedal to serve as an expression pedal for the PS-2, demonstrating potential for customization to expand control options.

    Source

User experience

  • Long-term ownership has led some to desire multiple units, with one user regretting not purchasing an additional PS-2 over their 25-year experience, underscoring its lasting appeal.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 22 Ratings

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stoney_point

One of the Most Important Pedals Created

This pedal is iconic for a number of reasons whether it be iconic lineage and usage by Slowdive or use in a number of modern tracks. I wonder truly how many people this pedal has inspired due to its unique and quirky sounds.

robert_jamora

blast off!

I've had a dramatic bout with this monster and because of her age. I tried to study, and lean on towards learning the bits and pieces and the basics of fixing the first pitch shifter available in the market. The main mistake of using this pedal is that it has a trim pot inside that you need to adjust. All in all, this was a challenging pedal to use, but it is a rewarding experience.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Protip: max out both the settings of the trim pots inside the circuit and put this thing in front of your signal chain.

From Gear Setup
darrell_qualls

Weird "Glitchy as hell" octave pedal with Delay capabilities

This beautiful, nasty "octave" pedal can do octave down, up and straight glitched out detune kind of signals to pair with your original tone. Jump on Youtube and check out some videos, there is no good way to explain this wacked out pedal with words.

yanionguitars

A Gift

I got the Boss PS-2 from my friend that has his uncle gave it to him. One thing is interesting for sure that it has a some kind of octaver that can be used for some shimmer type sounds with use of other pedals.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Sebastian Kinsler uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

Sebastian Kinsler

Guitarist

Feeble Little Horse

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Feeble Little Horse — Alive in the Basement: WNYU Sessions," Sebastian Kinsler can be seen using the boss ps2 at the 1:21 mark. The pedal is located on the pedalboard in the bottom right corner.

See how Kimihide Kusafuka uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

Kimihide Kusafuka

Keyboardist, Music Producer

K2

...
Verified via Threads

In a post on Threads, it is evident that Kimihide Kusafuka uses the Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay, as it is clearly visible in the first post by 草深 公秀 (@k2kinky).

J

Jessica Bailiff

Guitarist, Drummer

Clear Horizon

...
Verified via Photo

According to this Guitar Geek rig diagram, Jessica Bailiff used a Boss PS2 pitch shifter pedal.

See how Bruna Guimarães uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

Bruna Guimarães

Singer, Guitarist

BRVNKS

...
Verified via Photo

The pedal is seen in this Instagram post.

See how Nik Colk Void uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

Nik Colk Void

Guitarist

Factory Floor

...
Verified via The Quietus

Boss Digital shifter / Delay PS-2, Boss Digital pitch shifter / delay PS-3, Boss Super Feedbacker & Distortion, Boss Digital Delay DD-3m, Boss Equaliser GE-7 As used by: Nik Colk Void

See how Christian Bonnesen uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

Christian Bonnesen

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "LLNN - Guitar Talk," Christian Bonnesen showcases his gear, including the Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay.

See how Guy Grengs uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

Guy Grengs

Audio Engineer

Stoney Point

...
Verified via Photo

In a photograph taken during a show at Cadenza Studio, Guy Grengs is seen adjusting settings on his Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay pedal. This is the same pedal used for treatments on Stoney Point's studio self-titled record. The image serves as proof of his use of this specific gear.

See how WATCHMAN uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

WATCHMAN

Drummer, Music Producer

...
Verified

On the official Equipment page of WATCHMAN's website, the BOSS PS-2 is listed as one of the effects units he has used.

See how Jake McMurchie uses Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay

Jake McMurchie

Composer

Michelson Morley

...
Verified via Photo

In this post, he is taking a close shot of his pedal chain. The last pedal chain is a Digital Pitch Shifter / Delay PS-2, because it's written on it.

Album Usage

The Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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Gear IQ 144

parker_p

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Gear IQ 152

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Gear IQ 300

matthewjwilesmith

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Gear IQ 398

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