BOSS XS-1 Poly Shifter | Re-tune your guitar or bass

The Boss X-1 Poly Shifter

Instantly re-tune your guitar or bass with class-leading sound and feel.

Description

The XS-1 Poly Shifter delivers instant retuning in a convenient, compact footprint. Driven by advanced BOSS algorithms years in the making, this magical pedal transforms the overall pitch while maintaining your instrument’s true character. You get speedy tracking, crystal-clear response, and zero compromise in tone—whether shifting down, simulating a capo, or using extreme octave jumps for effect. The versatile XS-1 unlocks a new level of performance freedom, making tuning changes fast, fluid, and seamless.

Standard Features

• Class-leading pitch shifting quality realized with new BOSS algorithms
• Instantly change the pitch of a guitar, bass, or other instrument
• Clear response and natural feel that retains the fundamental sound character
• Change pitch across +/- seven semitones or +/- three octaves
• Balance knob adjusts the mix between the effect and direct sound
• Detune function (+/- 20 cents) to create rich doubling effects
• Selectable pedal switch modes for toggle or momentary operation
• Connect external footswitches for quick access to up to three tuning setups, or use an expression pedal for linear pitch control
• BOSS five-year warranty

Natural Sound with Advanced BOSS Technology

In developing the XS series, BOSS engineers pioneered new methods to advance real-time pitch shifting and eliminate the tonal artefacts common in conventional designs. Powered by finely tuned algorithms and a specially selected DSP platform, the XS-1 provides balanced polyphonic performance that feels natural and musical across all playing styles, pickup positions, and pedal setups. Your instrument’s attack and tonal character are fully preserved, and even complex chords and sustained lead tones—typically a challenge for pitch shifters—are reproduced with stunning clarity.

Redefining Pitch Shifting for Live Performance

Retuning during a performance means long pauses, instrument swaps, or pedal solutions that can colour the sound in undesirable ways. With the XS-1, you can shift tunings on demand and retain great sound, feel, and response—without ever breaking the momentum of a show. Authentically play songs in drop tunings, change keys to suit a vocalist’s range, create unique extended-range sounds, and more.

Wide Range, Simple Controls

Offering a range of +/- seven semitones and three octaves up or down, the XS-1 adapts to virtually any musical need. Thanks to the signature BOSS compact interface, dialling in sounds is fast and intuitive. With semitone tunings, you’ll usually want to set the Balance knob for effect only to avoid pitch conflicts. For octave shifts, use it to blend in the direct sound for 12-string effects, parallel guitar/bass sounds, and unexplored colours. There’s also a Detune mode to create evocative doubling effects with high-definition tone.

Supreme Creative Command

The XS-1 provides a variety of control options to meet your creative intent. With the flip of a panel control, you can assign the pedal switch for standard on/off toggle use or momentary operation. Connect up to two external footswitches for fast access to alternate tuning modes with your preferred Balance settings. Or add an expression pedal to transform the XS-1 into a dynamic pitch-bending tool for dramatic, ear-turning shifts.