Boss SE-50 Multi-effects processor

First released in the 1990s, the Boss SE-50 is a half-rack stereo multi effects processor that has garnered a bit of a reputation as a cult classic in recent years. The Boss SE-50's architecture uses a high-performance LSI with 24-bit internal processing and 16-bit A-D and D-A conversion, delivering wide dynamic range with sampling at either 48 kHz or 32 kHz depending on the algorithm.

Out of the box with the Boss SE-50 you get 28 preset algorithms and space for 100 user patches, so combinations can be stored and recalled quickly from the backlit two-line LCD. There are 19 core effects covering high-quality ambience and reverbs, delays including tap and multi-tap, chorus, flanger, phaser, rotary speaker simulation, enhancer, compressor and overdrive, plus vocoder, tremolo and panning.

Unique composite algorithms in the Boss SE-50 show off the processor's routing flexibility, such as Multi Pitch Shifter which can stack up to four pitch voices within a four-octave span for up to five-part harmony including the original, and a Rhodes algorithm that uses EQ, panning and modulation to recreate a dynamic stereo electric-piano effect. Editing is straightforward with dedicated number, value and parameter buttons, input level control for left and right, and front-panel overload and effect indicators.

Performance control is extensive with the Boss SE-50 via MIDI Program Change and Control Change, with support for external pedals and foot controllers to step through Number Shift sequences or manipulate parameters like Rotary speed or filter sweep. Stereo inputs and outputs make the Boss SE-50 equally at home on an instrument pedalboard, keyboard rig or an auxiliary effects loop in the studio.

This unit comes with rack ears that enable it to fill a whole 1U space.

Features

• Processing: High-performance LSI with 24-bit internal signal processing
• Conversion: 16-bit A/D and D/A
• Sampling rates: 48 kHz or 32 kHz depending on algorithm
• Built-in effects: 19 types including high-quality reverb, delay, chorus, flanger, phaser, rotary, enhancer, compressor, overdrive, tremolo, panning and vocoder
• Preset algorithms: 28 combinations in serial or parallel
• User patches: Store up to 100 editable patches
• Display: 16-character by 2-line backlit LCD
• Performance control: Number Shift sequencing with optional FS-5U footswitch
• MIDI control: Program Change and Control Change for patch recall and real-time parameter control
• Pedal options: Supports EV-5 or EV-10 expression pedals and FC-100MKII foot controller
• Multi Pitch Shifter: Up to four additional voices across a four-octave range for five-part harmony
• Rhodes algorithm: EQ, modulation and panning to create a dynamic stereo electric-piano effect
• I/O: Stereo inputs and outputs with input level controls and overload indicators
• Form factor: Compact half-rack unit suitable for rigs or studio aux loops