Gearank

The Boss GT-1 is a compact and affordable multi-effects pedal that features the same COSM DSP technology found on their more expensive guitar processors.

This means that you get the same software algorithms that reproduce the sound of popular amps and effects all in a floor pedal that's around the size of a regular school book.

It's also impressive how Boss was able to fit 3 footswitches and an expression pedal into the unit, along with a variety of buttons and knobs.

All of these work together with the backlit LCD display that makes the GT-1 very intuitive to setup and use.

Another nifty feature is the ability to run on four AA batteries, making this unit a truly portable multi-effect processor.

Specifications:

• Effects and Amp Modeling: 108
• Presets: 99
• Footswitches: 3 + Expression Pedal
• Input: 1 x 1/4", 1/8" Aux
• Output: 2 x 1/4", 1/4" Headphones
• Extra Features: Can be Battery Powered (4 x AA), With Built-in Looper
• USB: USB (For Update and Power)
• Dimensions: 12.06" x 2.9" x 6"
• Weight: 2.875 lbs.

Pros

Value for money still gets the most mention in reviews, but it's not just about having the most features per inch, because sound quality also gets a lot of nod. Many are impressed with its myriad of modulation, reverb and delay type effects, while others are pleased with the many different drives that they tried. It impressed the likes of Matthew Holliman from Premiere Guitar, who concluded "Even as an old-school pedalboard devotee, I’m impressed with the sounds and convenience of the GT-1". Portability also got a lot of thumbs up.

Cons

There are some who are irked because of the need to buy a power supply, so much so that some gave the lowest rating even though they are pleased with how it performs.

Overall

Still, having to buy a power supply separately is a minor issue compared to the quality and value for money that you're getting with the Boss GT-1.

While we have previously featured the Boss GT-1 on our recommended list, there are now more modern and more highly rated options available which you can see in our guide to The Best Multi Effects Pedals.