BOSS XS-1 Poly Shifter - Rapid Retuning, Flawless Sound
Need drop tunings, capo-style key changes, or big octave jumps without swapping guitars mid-set? The BOSS XS-1 Poly Shifter gives you instant, natural-sounding pitch changes in a classic compact-pedal footprint, powered by advanced BOSS pitch-shifting algorithms designed for clear tracking and a true-to-your-instrument feel.
In other words: keep the momentum of the song, keep your tone, and change pitch on demand.
Features that matter (and why you will actually use them)
- Instant retuning with realistic feel - shift pitch while preserving attack and character, even on complex chords.
- Wide range control - change pitch across +/- 7 semitones or up to +/- 3 octaves.
- BALANCE knob - blend effect and direct sound for everything from clean retunes to layered 12-string-style textures.
- DETUNE mode (+/- 20 cents) - dial in rich doubling and widening without muddy artifacts.
- TOGGLE or MOMENTARY switching - choose standard on/off operation or momentary shifts for quick, expressive moves.
- CTL/EXP flexibility - add external footswitch control for multiple tuning setups, or plug in an expression pedal for smooth pitch sweeps.
- Buffered bypass - helps keep your signal strong across longer cable runs and pedalboards.
These are not just "nice to have" features - they are the difference between a pitch pedal you try at home and a pitch pedal you trust on stage.
And because its control layout is straightforward, you spend less time tweaking and more time playing.
BOSS also backs the XS-1 with a five-year warranty for extra peace of mind.
Perfect for
- Drop tuning songs without bringing a second guitar
- Capo-style key changes to match a vocalist comfortably
- Octave blends for bigger riffs, faux bass layers, and unique textures
- Doubling effects that add width and shimmer without a chorus "swirl"
- Creative pitch-bend moments with an expression pedal
Specifications
- Pitch range: +/- 7 semitones or +/- 3 octaves (up or down)
- Detune: +/- 20 cents
- Bypass: Buffered bypass
- Controls: BALANCE knob, SHIFT knob, PEDAL MODE switch (TOGGLE/MOMENT), SHIFT DIRECTION switch, pedal switch
- Indicator: CHECK indicator (battery check)
- Connectors: INPUT 1/4-inch, OUTPUT 1/4-inch, CTL/EXP 1/4-inch TRS, DC IN
- Nominal input level: -20 dBu
- Maximum input level: +7 dBu
- Input impedance: 1 Mohm
- Nominal output level: -20 dBu
- Maximum output level: +7 dBu
- Output impedance: 1 kohm
- Recommended load impedance: 10 kohms or greater
- AD conversion: 24-bit + AF method
- DA conversion: 32-bit
- Sampling frequency: 48 kHz
- Power: PSA-series AC adaptor (sold separately) or 9V alkaline battery (6LR61/6LF22)
- Current draw: 120 mA
- Expected battery life: approx. 3 hours (alkaline, continuous use)
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 2-7/8 x 5-1/8 x 2-3/8 inches
- Weight (incl. battery): 15 oz
- Optional control: PSA adaptor, FS-5U / FS-6 / FS-7 footswitches, EV-30 / FV-500L / FV-500H / EV-5 expression pedals
Thank you for taking the time to read about the product on our site. If you ever have any questions or want to talk music, please text us at 814-371-5666.
