Boss SY1 Polyphonic Synthesizer Pedal

The BOSS SY-1 brings legendary guitar synth technology into a compact pedal format that’s as straightforward to use as any standard stompbox. This remarkably expressive instrument houses 121 ultra-responsive sounds across 11 categories, from sweeping pads and fat bass tones to rhythmic sequencer patterns and explosive sound effects. Built on advanced technology originally developed for the SY-300, the SY-1 works with any guitar or bass via standard 1/4-inch cable connection, offering completely latency-free performance that feels like a natural extension of your playing technique.

The pedal’s polyphonic capability means you can play both single notes and full chords through its comprehensive sound palette. Categories include expressive leads, layered organs, classic analog-style strings, percussive bell sounds, and pulsating sequencer voices with rhythmic pitch and filter changes. The intuitive Tone/Rate and Depth controls let you shape each synth voice to your preference, with some sounds offering pitch adjustment capabilities for even greater versatility.

Beyond basic serial connection, the SY-1 features a send/return loop with dedicated mix controls, allowing you to blend additional pedals in parallel with the synth voices. The send output can also function as a direct out for routing synth and guitar sounds to separate destinations. Additional performance features include a sustain function activated by holding the pedal switch, external footswitch compatibility for tap tempo and octave-shift effects, and expression pedal input for continuous real-time control over the Tone/Rate parameter.