This pedals color scheme makes it much more readable than other boss pedals.
Live application: 2/5This is actually a fairly difficult pedal to use live.
No Hassle Return Policy Interface: 3/5This pedal is quite simple.
But it was the new +1 octave feature that most intrigued me.
This makes live use tenuous and frustrating. By
Please refresh the page and try again. And though it doesnt feature a Drive mode, the OC-5s suboctave volume controls do produce slightly thicker, gnarlier tones as you turn them to their maximum.
Its Vintage mode is a virtually spot-on re-creation of the original OC-2 monophonic pedal, while its Poly mode delivers the OC-3s chord-loving goodness, including its suboctave range control. Now is the perfect time to get the gear you want with simple promotional financing.
Whereas the OC-3 had separate guitar and bass inputs, the OC-5 sports a guitar/bass switch on its backside that optimizes its performance for each instrument.
Although it is not the worst octave box we have seen, its tonal realities as well as its questionable live application make this pedal one to stay away from. Product information from the BOSS website.
"reportSuiteIds": "", For modern pedalboards, a standard center-negative wall supply works just fine.
Questions about the Boss OC-5 Octave Pedal?
In practice, I found the higher octave added definition to my original guitar lines and kept them from getting swamped when the suboctaves were cranked up.
Sweetwater Sound
Boss introduced the the OC-2 Octave pedal in 1982, allowing guitarists and bassists to add tones one and two octaves below the original note played.
(800) 222-4700.
For any questions, email support@horn-fx.com, All information on site is HornFX, Aaron Janik, and Douglas Levin 2021. With volume controls for each of the three resulting signals, the OC-2 made it possible to mix the pitches as players desired, and with its clear tones and reliable pitch following, it became an enduring classic.
Nominal Input Level: -20 dBuInput Impedance: 1 M ohmsNominal Output Level: -20 dBuOutput Impedance: 1 k ohmsRecommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greaterResidual Noise: -96 dBu (IHF-A, Typ.) Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). Versatility: 1/5There is not much else you can do with this pedal besides adding one or two octaves below and some optional drive to the signal.
With Polyphonic Octave mode, drive mode with distortion, and the original OC-2 mode, this is the most versatile octave stompbox ever. GuitarPlayer is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. In that mode, the -2 octave knob becomes a control to limit the suboctave range, letting you place it, for example, on just the root note for bass guitarstyle accompaniment.
The versatile OC-3 also has separate inputs for both guitar and bass. published 16 February 21.
A new +1 Oct control on your BOSS OC-5 Octave pedal unlocks 12-string textures and classic fuzz solo tones. To be fair, it can be rather subtle when used on its own, both in Vintage and Poly mode.
The BOSS OC-5 Octave pedal's brand-new tracking engine promises low latency, high expression, and zero dropped notes.
"pageName": ""
Thank you for signing up to The Pick.
Everything you love about Sweetwater in the palm of your hand. Dialing up the -1 octave volume, I tried out my best Wes Montgomery licks and was thrilled by the OC-5s ability to slip that lower octave note under my original, with zero latency.
Dedicated controls for your dry tone and each of the two octaves down help achieve synth-like sub-bass and tight octave lead crawls without any fuss.
At the other end of the spectrum, the -2 octave was perfect in Vintage mode for adding meat to lines played high on the fretboard, shadowing the notes and adding dimension that helped them sound more substantial.
Apart from guitars, he maintains a collection of more than 30 vintage analog synthesizers.
With a modest 55-milliamp current draw, the BOSS OC-5 is able to give you around seven hours of run time off a single 9-volt battery. Here again, the OC-5s tracking was flawless, and the low notes never glitched or were pitched inaccurately.
"ATGID": "", To learn more about our cookie policy, please visit our Privacy Policy. Store Hours, If you have any questions, please call us at
Worlds first compact pedal with true Polyphonic Octave effects, New Drive mode adds distortion to octave notes for a fatter, more aggressive tone, Includes the original OC-2 mode, capable of producing notes one and two octaves down, Poly Octave effect adjustable to play within a specific note range, Bass input for adapting octave sound to bass guitars. Christopher Scapelliti Adding the -1 octave helped it stand out by accentuating the contrast between the lower and higher octave ranges.
The result is one of the smoothest, lowest-latency octave effects you'll ever experience.
While I imagine some OC-3 users may miss the Drive mode, most will be happy to use the dirt box they already own.
{ * All knobs at center positionControls: Pedal switch, DIRECT LEVEL knob, OCT1 LEVEL knob, CONTROL knob, MODE knobConnectors: GUITAR IN jack, BASS IN jack, OUTPUT (MONO) jack, DIRECT OUT jack, AC adaptor jack (DC 9 V)Power Supply: DC 9 V: Dry battery (9 V type), AC Adaptor (PSA-series: optional)Current Draw: 50 mA (DC 9 V)Accessories:Owner's Manual, Dry battery (9 V type) S-006P/9 V (6F22/9 V).
}, Find a similar product below or contact us for a recommendation of a great alternative, The Beat Goes On | The Enduring Legacy of the LinnDrum, AlesisNitro Mesh 8-Piece Electronic Drum Set, See All BOSS Harmony & Octave Effects Pedals, World's first compact pedal with true polyphonic octave effects, Drive mode adds distortion to octave notes for a fatter, more aggressive tone, Includes the original OC-2 mode, capable of producing notes one and 2 octaves down, Poly Octave effect adjustable to play within a specific note range.
The +1 octave-up tone can be subtle without a dirt box. When looking for an inexpensive, bare bones octave pedal, many look here. The BOSS OC-3 Super Octave gives guitarists high-quality octave effects with a single stomp.
In his extensive career, he has authored in-depth interviews with such guitarists as Pete Townshend, Slash, Billy Corgan, Jack White, Elvis Costello and Todd Rundgren, and audio professionals including Beatles engineers Geoff Emerick and Ken Scott.
Well, with the BOSS OC-5 Octave pedal, now you don't have to choose.
Tracking speed: 4/5The tracking speed is above average. Using the Polyphonic Octave mode, octaves can now be added when playing chords-a first in a compact pedal.
When the optional setting knob is changed, the rest of the pedal must be recalibrated for the pedal to sound even slightly good. NY 10036.
Find out more about how we test.
The great news is that the BOSS OC-5 delivers the classic OC-2 mono sound in a big way, and better than ever thanks to its improved tracking engine. Heres why you can trust us. This makes it a great option for players who love the sound of alkaline or carbon-zinc.
Fix it the first time with our award-winning, factory-certified Service Department.
Get back to making music with the industry's fastest turnaround time.
And whether you're running it in mono or poly modes, this means better performance across the board, even for vintage octave enthusiasts.
Buying music gear can be complicated, but your Sweetwater Sales Engineer is here to help.
You will receive a verification email shortly. The OC-5 gives you a Range knob to help restrict octaves to exactly where you want them.
In addition to the classic -1 and -2 octave controls, the OC-5 gives you a +1 octave dial for achieving faux 12-string textures and screaming classic lead lines.
As mentioned above, in Poly mode the -2 octave knob becomes a range control for the -1 octave, and this works as advertised, allowing you to place the sub on just the root of the chord or wind the control clockwise to apply the suboctave over all the notes being played.
The pedal also has a cleaner layout. BOSS knows how much guitarists depend on the original OC-2 sound.
Music background: Started in middle school stage band and been playing continuously until Covid hit. If you've been waiting for the next evolution of the BOSS Octave sound, the OC-5 is where it's at. No project is too big or small, so give us a call today and let's talk gear! Music background: Musician, Recordist, Mixer, Octave-up, Octave-down, Poly Chord Mode, Vintage Mode, 1 x 1/4" (main out), 1 x 1/4" (direct out), 9V DC power supply required (sold separately).
Sweetwater recommends giving the BOSS OC-5 Octave a spin. The controls are mostly self explanatory and its three options are simple to switch to.
Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street,
GuitarPlayer's expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.
It not only delivered glitch-free performance but was also lightning fast, producing a natural sound and feel even on bends and vibrato. The OC5s new tracking technology definitely deserves praise. From beginners to rock stars, millions of music makers rely on our Sales Engineers' expertise to help achieve their musical goals.
Thank you for your request. A dedicated switch on the side of your OC-5 lets you tailor this octaver's tracking response for guitar or bass.
Music background: Dabbler who loves to play & singwhen no one is listening. Tonal reproduction: 1/5The lower octave settings are far too muddy to replicate lower registered instruments and sound almost synthy. It still has a mono output, which combines your original guitar signal with the octave effects, and a direct output that splits the original signal off from the octave signals for individual processing.
He is the co-author ofGuitar Aficionado: The Collections: The Most Famous, Rare, and Valuable Guitars in the World (opens in new tab), a founding editor ofGuitar Aficionadomagazine, and a former editor withGuitar World,Guitar for the Practicing MusicianandMaximum Guitar.
Whether you're running a wet/dry amp rig or you want to send a clean bass signal to front of house, the BOSS OC-5 has you covered.
Open Box BOSS OC-3 SUPER Octave Pedal Level 2 Regular 194744175541, Looping Back Around | A Deep Dive on Line 6's DL4 MkII, The Best BOSS Pedals to Upgrade Your Guitar Rig, Modeling Old-School Magic | Universal Audio Intros Amp Emulator Pedals. A FREE "Getting Started" Guide will be automatically sent to your email address along with a TON of other amazing deals!
Searching for the ultimate does-it-all guitar/bass octave pedal? Happy customers, one piece of gear at a time! Boss continued to build upon the original with the OC-3 Super Octave, adding a Poly mode that allowed octave effects on full chords. I also think its suboctave tones sound more guitar-like and less synthetic than those of its predecessors.
This gives you the ability to blend up to three individual sounds: the original note, a note one octave below and one that's two octaves below.
That's why the OC-3 includes that classic dual octave effect, but with even better stability.
Our expertly trained Sales Engineers are ready to help!
Ever since its 1982 debut, BOSS's OC-2 octave effect has left an indelible mark on the guitar and bass market.
So for the price of one pedal, you're effectively getting two powerful octave effects that you can transplant onto any live pedal rig.
Christopher Scapelliti is editor-in-chief ofGuitar Player (opens in new tab)magazine, the worlds longest-running guitar magazine, founded in 1967. Get Directions |
5501 U.S. Hwy 30 W, Fort Wayne, IN 46818
A Sweetwater Sales Engineer will get back to you shortly. The BOSS OC-5 picks up where the OC-3 left off, with a smart polyphonic sub tracker that's able to flesh out power chords, open chords, and barre chords with bass-like root notes.
Reserve yours now risk-free, or contact us for more information.
Get the latest news, reviews and product advice straight to your inbox.
Whether it's thunderous mono sub-bass or strum-enriching root enhancement you're after, the OC-5 has you covered.
Live application: 2/5This is actually a fairly difficult pedal to use live.
No Hassle Return Policy Interface: 3/5This pedal is quite simple.
But it was the new +1 octave feature that most intrigued me.
This makes live use tenuous and frustrating. By
Please refresh the page and try again. And though it doesnt feature a Drive mode, the OC-5s suboctave volume controls do produce slightly thicker, gnarlier tones as you turn them to their maximum.
Its Vintage mode is a virtually spot-on re-creation of the original OC-2 monophonic pedal, while its Poly mode delivers the OC-3s chord-loving goodness, including its suboctave range control. Now is the perfect time to get the gear you want with simple promotional financing.
Whereas the OC-3 had separate guitar and bass inputs, the OC-5 sports a guitar/bass switch on its backside that optimizes its performance for each instrument.
Although it is not the worst octave box we have seen, its tonal realities as well as its questionable live application make this pedal one to stay away from. Product information from the BOSS website.
"reportSuiteIds": "", For modern pedalboards, a standard center-negative wall supply works just fine.
Questions about the Boss OC-5 Octave Pedal?
In practice, I found the higher octave added definition to my original guitar lines and kept them from getting swamped when the suboctaves were cranked up.
Sweetwater Sound
Boss introduced the the OC-2 Octave pedal in 1982, allowing guitarists and bassists to add tones one and two octaves below the original note played.
(800) 222-4700.
For any questions, email support@horn-fx.com, All information on site is HornFX, Aaron Janik, and Douglas Levin 2021. With volume controls for each of the three resulting signals, the OC-2 made it possible to mix the pitches as players desired, and with its clear tones and reliable pitch following, it became an enduring classic.
Nominal Input Level: -20 dBuInput Impedance: 1 M ohmsNominal Output Level: -20 dBuOutput Impedance: 1 k ohmsRecommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greaterResidual Noise: -96 dBu (IHF-A, Typ.) Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). Versatility: 1/5There is not much else you can do with this pedal besides adding one or two octaves below and some optional drive to the signal.
With Polyphonic Octave mode, drive mode with distortion, and the original OC-2 mode, this is the most versatile octave stompbox ever. GuitarPlayer is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. In that mode, the -2 octave knob becomes a control to limit the suboctave range, letting you place it, for example, on just the root note for bass guitarstyle accompaniment.
The versatile OC-3 also has separate inputs for both guitar and bass. published 16 February 21.
A new +1 Oct control on your BOSS OC-5 Octave pedal unlocks 12-string textures and classic fuzz solo tones. To be fair, it can be rather subtle when used on its own, both in Vintage and Poly mode.
The BOSS OC-5 Octave pedal's brand-new tracking engine promises low latency, high expression, and zero dropped notes.
"pageName": ""
Thank you for signing up to The Pick.
Everything you love about Sweetwater in the palm of your hand. Dialing up the -1 octave volume, I tried out my best Wes Montgomery licks and was thrilled by the OC-5s ability to slip that lower octave note under my original, with zero latency.
Dedicated controls for your dry tone and each of the two octaves down help achieve synth-like sub-bass and tight octave lead crawls without any fuss.
At the other end of the spectrum, the -2 octave was perfect in Vintage mode for adding meat to lines played high on the fretboard, shadowing the notes and adding dimension that helped them sound more substantial.
Apart from guitars, he maintains a collection of more than 30 vintage analog synthesizers.
With a modest 55-milliamp current draw, the BOSS OC-5 is able to give you around seven hours of run time off a single 9-volt battery. Here again, the OC-5s tracking was flawless, and the low notes never glitched or were pitched inaccurately.
"ATGID": "", To learn more about our cookie policy, please visit our Privacy Policy. Store Hours, If you have any questions, please call us at
Worlds first compact pedal with true Polyphonic Octave effects, New Drive mode adds distortion to octave notes for a fatter, more aggressive tone, Includes the original OC-2 mode, capable of producing notes one and two octaves down, Poly Octave effect adjustable to play within a specific note range, Bass input for adapting octave sound to bass guitars. Christopher Scapelliti Adding the -1 octave helped it stand out by accentuating the contrast between the lower and higher octave ranges.
The result is one of the smoothest, lowest-latency octave effects you'll ever experience.
While I imagine some OC-3 users may miss the Drive mode, most will be happy to use the dirt box they already own.
{ * All knobs at center positionControls: Pedal switch, DIRECT LEVEL knob, OCT1 LEVEL knob, CONTROL knob, MODE knobConnectors: GUITAR IN jack, BASS IN jack, OUTPUT (MONO) jack, DIRECT OUT jack, AC adaptor jack (DC 9 V)Power Supply: DC 9 V: Dry battery (9 V type), AC Adaptor (PSA-series: optional)Current Draw: 50 mA (DC 9 V)Accessories:Owner's Manual, Dry battery (9 V type) S-006P/9 V (6F22/9 V).
}, Find a similar product below or contact us for a recommendation of a great alternative, The Beat Goes On | The Enduring Legacy of the LinnDrum, AlesisNitro Mesh 8-Piece Electronic Drum Set, See All BOSS Harmony & Octave Effects Pedals, World's first compact pedal with true polyphonic octave effects, Drive mode adds distortion to octave notes for a fatter, more aggressive tone, Includes the original OC-2 mode, capable of producing notes one and 2 octaves down, Poly Octave effect adjustable to play within a specific note range.
The +1 octave-up tone can be subtle without a dirt box. When looking for an inexpensive, bare bones octave pedal, many look here. The BOSS OC-3 Super Octave gives guitarists high-quality octave effects with a single stomp.
In his extensive career, he has authored in-depth interviews with such guitarists as Pete Townshend, Slash, Billy Corgan, Jack White, Elvis Costello and Todd Rundgren, and audio professionals including Beatles engineers Geoff Emerick and Ken Scott.
Well, with the BOSS OC-5 Octave pedal, now you don't have to choose.
Tracking speed: 4/5The tracking speed is above average. Using the Polyphonic Octave mode, octaves can now be added when playing chords-a first in a compact pedal.
When the optional setting knob is changed, the rest of the pedal must be recalibrated for the pedal to sound even slightly good. NY 10036.
Find out more about how we test.
The great news is that the BOSS OC-5 delivers the classic OC-2 mono sound in a big way, and better than ever thanks to its improved tracking engine. Heres why you can trust us. This makes it a great option for players who love the sound of alkaline or carbon-zinc.
Fix it the first time with our award-winning, factory-certified Service Department.
Get back to making music with the industry's fastest turnaround time.
And whether you're running it in mono or poly modes, this means better performance across the board, even for vintage octave enthusiasts.
Buying music gear can be complicated, but your Sweetwater Sales Engineer is here to help.
You will receive a verification email shortly. The OC-5 gives you a Range knob to help restrict octaves to exactly where you want them.
In addition to the classic -1 and -2 octave controls, the OC-5 gives you a +1 octave dial for achieving faux 12-string textures and screaming classic lead lines.
As mentioned above, in Poly mode the -2 octave knob becomes a range control for the -1 octave, and this works as advertised, allowing you to place the sub on just the root of the chord or wind the control clockwise to apply the suboctave over all the notes being played.
The pedal also has a cleaner layout. BOSS knows how much guitarists depend on the original OC-2 sound.
Music background: Started in middle school stage band and been playing continuously until Covid hit. If you've been waiting for the next evolution of the BOSS Octave sound, the OC-5 is where it's at. No project is too big or small, so give us a call today and let's talk gear! Music background: Musician, Recordist, Mixer, Octave-up, Octave-down, Poly Chord Mode, Vintage Mode, 1 x 1/4" (main out), 1 x 1/4" (direct out), 9V DC power supply required (sold separately).
Sweetwater recommends giving the BOSS OC-5 Octave a spin. The controls are mostly self explanatory and its three options are simple to switch to.
Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street,
GuitarPlayer's expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.
It not only delivered glitch-free performance but was also lightning fast, producing a natural sound and feel even on bends and vibrato. The OC5s new tracking technology definitely deserves praise. From beginners to rock stars, millions of music makers rely on our Sales Engineers' expertise to help achieve their musical goals.
Thank you for your request. A dedicated switch on the side of your OC-5 lets you tailor this octaver's tracking response for guitar or bass.
Music background: Dabbler who loves to play & singwhen no one is listening. Tonal reproduction: 1/5The lower octave settings are far too muddy to replicate lower registered instruments and sound almost synthy. It still has a mono output, which combines your original guitar signal with the octave effects, and a direct output that splits the original signal off from the octave signals for individual processing.
He is the co-author ofGuitar Aficionado: The Collections: The Most Famous, Rare, and Valuable Guitars in the World (opens in new tab), a founding editor ofGuitar Aficionadomagazine, and a former editor withGuitar World,Guitar for the Practicing MusicianandMaximum Guitar.
Whether you're running a wet/dry amp rig or you want to send a clean bass signal to front of house, the BOSS OC-5 has you covered.
Open Box BOSS OC-3 SUPER Octave Pedal Level 2 Regular 194744175541, Looping Back Around | A Deep Dive on Line 6's DL4 MkII, The Best BOSS Pedals to Upgrade Your Guitar Rig, Modeling Old-School Magic | Universal Audio Intros Amp Emulator Pedals. A FREE "Getting Started" Guide will be automatically sent to your email address along with a TON of other amazing deals!
Searching for the ultimate does-it-all guitar/bass octave pedal? Happy customers, one piece of gear at a time! Boss continued to build upon the original with the OC-3 Super Octave, adding a Poly mode that allowed octave effects on full chords. I also think its suboctave tones sound more guitar-like and less synthetic than those of its predecessors.
This gives you the ability to blend up to three individual sounds: the original note, a note one octave below and one that's two octaves below.
That's why the OC-3 includes that classic dual octave effect, but with even better stability.
Our expertly trained Sales Engineers are ready to help!
Ever since its 1982 debut, BOSS's OC-2 octave effect has left an indelible mark on the guitar and bass market.
So for the price of one pedal, you're effectively getting two powerful octave effects that you can transplant onto any live pedal rig.
Christopher Scapelliti is editor-in-chief ofGuitar Player (opens in new tab)magazine, the worlds longest-running guitar magazine, founded in 1967. Get Directions |
5501 U.S. Hwy 30 W, Fort Wayne, IN 46818
A Sweetwater Sales Engineer will get back to you shortly. The BOSS OC-5 picks up where the OC-3 left off, with a smart polyphonic sub tracker that's able to flesh out power chords, open chords, and barre chords with bass-like root notes.
Reserve yours now risk-free, or contact us for more information.
Get the latest news, reviews and product advice straight to your inbox.
Whether it's thunderous mono sub-bass or strum-enriching root enhancement you're after, the OC-5 has you covered.