BOSS ES-5 Effects Switching System with 5 Loops and MIDI

BOSS ES-5 Effects Switching System

The BOSS ES-5 Effects Switching System is a programmable five-loop pedal switcher with 200 patch memories, flexible effect-order routing, parallel signal paths, MIDI control, and external control connections. Its analog audio circuitry and configurable input/output buffers help guitarists and bassists manage complex pedalboards while keeping frequently used switching functions accessible from six footswitches.

Each patch can store loop states, routing order, buffer settings, and external control parameters, allowing complete effect combinations to change with a single footswitch press. Players can rearrange connected stompboxes without physically rewiring them, create parallel effect chains, control compatible amplifier functions, and integrate MIDI-equipped pedals. This makes the ES-5 useful for compact professional pedalboards and automated live-performance rigs.

The backlit 16-character, two-line LCD provides clear patch and editing information, while Memory and Manual modes support programmed or direct operation. Dedicated tuner routing enables silent tuning, and two TRS external-control outputs expand amplifier and effects control. The included AC adapter powers the system, eliminating battery management for permanent pedalboard installations.

Key Features

• Five Programmable Effects Loops: Connects five mono pedal chains with independent loop activation stored within each patch.
• Flexible Signal Routing: Changes effect order electronically and supports parallel effect-chain configurations without physically repatching pedals.
• 200 Patch Memories: Stores complete switching configurations for quick recall during rehearsals, recording sessions, and performances.
• Analog Audio Circuitry: Keeps the instrument signal in an analog path while digital control manages switching and stored configurations.
• Configurable Buffers: Input and output buffers can be individually enabled or disabled and saved as part of each patch.
• MIDI Integration: MIDI IN and OUT/THRU connections coordinate program changes and control with compatible effects equipment.
• External Equipment Control: Two TRS control-output jacks and a control/expression input support amplifiers, footswitches, and expression pedals.
• Silent Tuning: The MUTE function directs the instrument signal to the dedicated tuner output while muting the main output.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: BOSS
• Model: ES-5
• Product Type: Effects switching system
• Operating Modes: Memory mode, Manual mode
• Effects Loops: 5
• Loop Configuration: Mono send/return
• Patch Memory: 200 patches
• Nominal Input Level: -10 dBu for INPUT and RETURN 1-5
• Maximum Input Level: +13 dBu for INPUT and RETURN 1-5
• Input Impedance: 1 M ohm with input buffer enabled
• Nominal Output Level: -10 dBu for SEND 1-5, OUTPUT, and TUNER
• Maximum Output Level: +13 dBu for SEND 1-5, OUTPUT, and TUNER
• Output Impedance: 1 k ohm for OUTPUT and TUNER with mixer enabled
• Recommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greater
• Footswitches: NUMBER 1-5, BANK, MUTE
• Editing Controls: EDIT, WRITE, -, +, DISPLAY/EXIT, ENTER, left cursor, right cursor
• Display: 16-character, 2-line backlit LCD
• Indicators: NUMBER 1-5, BANK MEMORY/MANUAL, MUTE
• Instrument Input: 1 x 1/4-inch phone-type INPUT jack
• Loop Sends: 5 x 1/4-inch phone-type SEND jacks
• Loop Returns: 5 x 1/4-inch phone-type RETURN jacks
• Main Output: 1 x 1/4-inch phone-type OUTPUT jack
• Tuner Output: 1 x 1/4-inch phone-type TUNER jack
• External Control Outputs: CTL 1/2 and CTL 3/4, 1/4-inch TRS phone type
• Control/Expression Input: CTL IN/EXP, 1/4-inch TRS phone type
• MIDI: MIDI IN and MIDI OUT/THRU
• Power Connector: DC IN
• Power Supply: AC adapter
• Current Draw: 125 mA
• Optional Footswitches: BOSS FS-5U, FS-5L, FS-6, FS-7
• Optional Expression Pedals: BOSS FV-500L, FV-500H, Roland EV-5
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 13.3 x 3.9 x 2.7"
• Weight: 2.9 lb
• Package Dimensions (L x W x H): 17 x 8 x 5.6"
• Package Weight: 4.6 lb

What's In the Box

• BOSS ES-5 Effects Switching System
• AC adapter
• 4 rubber feet
• Owner's manual
• Safety information leaflet