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Buy this product in a discounted set
- Тype: Compressor, Sustainer
- True Bypass: No
- Controls: Attack, Level, Sustain, Tone
Boss CS-3 Guitar Effect
The Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer is a classic analog compressor pedal that has shaped guitar tone since 1986. It evens out dynamics and adds rich sustain without introducing distortion, making it equally useful for rhythm work and lead lines. Four intuitive knobs — Level, Tone, Attack, and Sustain — give players precise control over every aspect of the compression character.
- High-performance VCA circuit delivers stable, balanced compression with very low noise
- Attack knob adjusts how quickly the circuit reacts, from snappy percussive response to smooth dynamic control
- Tone knob shapes the high-frequency response of the compressed signal for cutting bite or warm mellow voice
- Buffered bypass with standard 6.3 mm TS input and output jacks fits any pedalboard setup
Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer — Classic Analog Dynamics
The Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer has been a pedalboard staple since 1986, trusted by countless guitarists for natural compression and rich sustain. It evens out dynamics by reducing loud signals while boosting soft ones, delivering smoother tone without distortion. The CS-3 is the right choice for guitarists and bassists who need a low-noise compressor that handles both subtle dynamic control and aggressive lead sustain.
What Sets the CS-3 Apart
A high-performance VCA circuit paired with a dedicated tone-shaping stage sets the CS-3 apart from most stompbox compressors. This VCA delivers stable, consistent compression with very low noise. The Tone knob lets players shape the high-frequency response of the compressed signal — push it up for cutting funk arpeggios or roll it back for warm, jazz-friendly mellowness.
Four-Knob Control Layout
Four dedicated knobs give direct access to every compression variable, with Level compensating for compression-induced volume loss.
- Sustain: compression ratio — sets amount of compression, from gentle leveling to squeezed sustain
- Attack: response time — clockwise preserves string attack for snap; counterclockwise smooths spikes
- Tone: high-frequency EQ — adds treble bite or softens highs for warm voice
Signal Path and Electrical Specs
Professional-grade electrical parameters ensure clean integration with guitars, basses, and downstream gear.
- Nominal Input/Output Level: -20 dBu — handles passive and active pickups with headroom
- Input/Output Impedance: 1 M ohm input, 1 k ohm output — preserves high-frequency detail and drives long cable runs
- Bypass: Buffered — keeps tone consistent when the pedal is switched off
Power, Connectors, and Build
The CS-3 uses the classic BOSS compact stompbox chassis, fitting any standard pedalboard.
- Inputs/Outputs: 6.3 mm TS jacks — standard instrument connections for guitar and bass
- Power: 9V battery or PSA-series AC adaptor, 20 mA draw — efficient for daisy-chained pedalboard power
- Dimensions and Weight: 73 x 129 x 59 mm, 380 g — classic BOSS compact footprint with solid, road-ready build
Тype
- Compressor
- Sustainer
Controls
- Sustain
- Attack
- Tone
- Level
Inputs: Jack 6,3 mm TS
A universal connector used to connect various audio devices.
Outputs: Jack 6,3 mm TS
A universal connector used to connect various audio devices.
Тype
Offer Configuration
Standard offer
UK/EU Power supply included
Made in
Taiwan
Buy Boss CS-3 Guitar Effect in discounted set.
SET with discounted accessories. Accessories and consumables will be necessary sooner or later. Buy them now and save yourself some money and time. You will not have to deal with it later. Additionally, you can be sure the accessories in the SET will fit your product.
Available sets:
All reviews come from verified customers who have purchased a product from us in the past.
AI summary of reviews
Based on the number of reviews: 62
Strengths
- Sound versatility: Customers appreciate its ability to function as a sustain enhancer, limiter, or booster, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities.
- Sustain quality: The pedal excels at extending the duration of notes, which is a key feature for many users.
- Sound enhancement: Many users report that the pedal significantly improves the overall sound, especially for clean and lightly distorted tones.
- Build quality: The pedal is noted for its durable and reliable construction, typical of Boss compact pedals.
Weaknesses
- Learning curve: Several reviews indicate that the pedal requires considerable time and experimentation to fully understand and achieve desired results.
- Noise generation: When used with high distortion, the pedal can generate a significant amount of noise.
What customers repeat
Verdict
Documents
Instructions for use
Safety instructions
Please refer to the user manual for the specific safety instructions for this product.
