BOSS SY-1 Polyphonic Guitar Synthesizer Pedal
Brand
BOSS
The BOSS SY-1 Synthesizer Pedal delivers legendary polyphonic guitar synthesizer technology in a compact, pedalboard-friendly stompbox format. Powered by custom digital processing, this plug-and-play pedal transforms your electric guitar or bass into an expansive array of synthesizers with zero tracking latency. Best of all, it works perfectly with any standard instrument cable—no special split pickups or modifications required. Boasting 121 highly responsive, analog-style synth voices across 11 diverse categories, the SY-1 makes it incredibly simple for live performers, session guitarists, and creators to introduce rich cinematic textures, deep bass grooves, and soaring leads into their music without needing any background in synth programming.
BOSS SY-1 Synthesizer – Polyphonic Guitar & Bass Synth Pedal
The BOSS SY-1 Synthesizer is a compact and highly expressive polyphonic synth pedal designed to transform any electric guitar or bass into a full-fledged synthesizer without requiring special pickups or complex programming. Powered by advanced BOSS synth technology derived from the SY-300 platform, it delivers a massive library of instantly playable synth sounds in a simple stompbox format.
Instant Access to 121 Synth Sounds
The SY-1 provides an extensive palette of 121 expressive sounds organized into 11 categories with 11 variations each. These include leads, pads, basses, organs, bells, strings, and experimental textures, allowing musicians to explore synth tones instantly without menu diving or programming knowledge.
- 121 onboard synth sounds (11 types × 11 variations)
- Polyphonic tracking for chords and single-note playing
- No special pickup required – works with any standard guitar or bass
- Latency-free performance for natural playing feel
Simple, Performance-Focused Controls
Designed for immediate usability, the SY-1 uses an intuitive control layout that allows quick sound shaping on stage or in the studio. Players can adjust tone, depth, and modulation behavior in real time without interrupting performance flow.
- Type and Variation selection for fast sound switching
- Tone control for overall brightness and character
- Depth control for modulation intensity
- Effect and direct level blending for mix control
Expressive Synth Engine with No Latency
The SY-1 is designed to respond instantly to playing dynamics, ensuring a natural and musical feel. Its optimized DSP engine delivers zero-latency tracking so the synth sound behaves as an extension of the instrument rather than an external effect.
- Advanced BOSS DSP synth engine
- Real-time polyphonic tracking
- Responsive to picking dynamics and articulation
- Ideal for live performance and studio layering
Flexible Signal Routing and Integration
The SY-1 integrates seamlessly into complex pedalboards with its send/return loop and parallel routing options. This allows musicians to process synth and dry signals independently or combine them creatively with external effects.
- Send/return loop for parallel effect processing
- Blend synth and dry guitar signals independently
- Compatible with distortion, modulation, delay, and reverb pedals
- Flexible routing for advanced pedalboard setups
Real-Time Performance Control
The SY-1 includes multiple performance features designed for live expression. It supports external footswitches and expression pedals, allowing expanded control over sound shaping and sustain functions during performance.
- Hold function for sustaining synth sounds
- Support for external footswitch control
- Expression pedal input for real-time parameter control
- Optimized for live looping and ambient performance
Guitar and Bass Optimization
A dedicated mode switch allows the SY-1 to adapt its tracking response for either guitar or bass, ensuring accurate performance across different frequency ranges and playing styles.
- Guitar/Bass mode switch for optimized tracking
- Stable response across low and high frequency ranges
- Compatible with all standard electric instruments
Key Specifications
- Sounds: 121 total (11 types × 11 variations)
- Technology: BOSS polyphonic synth engine
- Bypass: Buffered bypass
- Controls: Type, Variation, Tone, Depth, Effect, Direct
- Inputs/Outputs: Input, Output, Send, Return, EXP/CTL
- Power: 9V battery or PSA-series adapter
- Current draw: 115 mA
- Weight: 450 g (including battery)
- Dimensions: 73 × 129 × 59 mm
Ideal For
The BOSS SY-1 Synthesizer is ideal for guitarists and bass players who want instant access to synth textures without programming complexity. It is especially suited for ambient music, experimental sound design, electronic fusion, and live performance setups where fast sound switching and expressive layering are essential.
| Brands | BOSS |
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