MONSTER MOD MACHINE
Powered by advanced BOSS technology, the ultra-versatile MD-500 delivers nearly any type of modulation effect a musician could want, and then some. Included are 28 different algorithms with intensive programming parameters, offering a nearly limitless sound palette to create with. And with class-defying 32-bit AD/DA, 32-bit floating point processing, and 96 kHz sampling rate throughout, you'll enjoy pristine sound quality that extends beyond the capabilities of the very best studio hardware.
Effects in the MD-500 include many new Prime types developed with cutting-edge BOSS tech, plus authentic sonic recreations of vintage classics like the CE-1 Chorus Ensemble, Roland Dimension D, '70s script phaser, '80s tri-chorus, and numerous others. With the ability to use two patches at once with A/B Simul mode, the MD-500 can likely cover all your mod needs with one convenient pedal. And by inserting drive pedals in the MD-500's flexible external loop, it's easy to place mod effects before, after, or around the loop as needed for the very best sound.
Twelve Modes and 28 Mod Effect Types
The MD-500 includes 12 modes with 28 different mod effect algorithms, and every one of them has been newly developed specifically for this pedal. All the go-to standards are here: chorus, vibrato, flanger, phaser, tremolo, rotary, classic vibe, and ring mod. Auto wah and touch wah effects are on hand too, plus BOSS originals like Slicer and Overtone. Slicer fans will welcome the ability to program custom patterns, an additional feature to the original SL-20 Slicer pedal. And with the MD-500's spot-on recreation of Roland's Dimension D from the 1980s, you can add amazing width and depth with one of the most revered studio rack effects of all time.
Prime Tone
For the MD-500, standard effects like chorus, flanger, phaser, and others have been refreshed with BOSS's advanced new Prime algorithms. Using ultra-fast, high-powered DSP and the latest technology, BOSS engineers have reimagined these essential effects for enhanced expression, extended range, and maximum transparency. With an array of adjustable parameters per type, you have a massive range of sound-shaping potential at your fingers. Some effects even have all-new parameters never seen in BOSS effects before, such as the "Bell" and "Sweetness" settings included in the Prime Chorus algorithm.
Extraordinary Sound
The MD-500 features 32-bit/96 kHz AD/DA, exceeding all industry standards for pedal-based effects. All internal processing is 32-bit floating point and runs at a 96 kHz sampling rate as well, delivering pristine sonic quality that goes beyond the highest-level digital processors used in top pro studios. And with selectable true-bypass or buffered-bypass operation, you can choose the best setting to suit the needs of any pedalboard setup.
Advanced Interface, Intuitive Operation
The MD-500 is equipped with a large LCD that clearly shows the patch name and other vital performance information. It also makes it easy to view and adjust the unit's deep editing parameters and advanced control features. With the grab-and-go panel knobs, you have top-level access to essential adjustments like depth and effect level, plus two parameter controls that change dynamically with the selected effect type. And via USB, you can connect with the free MD-500 Editor/Librarian on your computer for remote editing, patch backup, and more.
A/B Simul Mode and Insert Loop Function
A/B Simul mode further extends the MD-500's versatility by letting you run two patches at once. A selectable series or parallel connection enables all sorts of tone-shaping possibilities, and you can even send each effect to its own separate output if you like. The MD-500 also features an external loop that lets you insert gain and drive pedals and set the ideal effect order on a per-patch basis. For example, you can place a phaser or classic vibe before a drive pedal in one patch, and a chorus or flanger after the drive in the next. And when you're in A/B Simul mode, it's even possible to position the loop between two different mod effects.
Intensive Real-Time Control
With its freely assignable switches and extensive real-time control support, the MD-500 delivers unmatched expression and performance flexibility. By default, the A, B, and TAP/CTL switches offer control for patch/bank selection and bypass, plus tap tempo or real-time adjustment of one or more parameters. If you like, the switches can be customized to access three different mod patches, A/B Simul mode, and other functions. Via the rear-panel CTL 1,2/EXP jack, you can plug in up to two footswitches for further control, or an expression pedal to adjust wah, effect rate, and other parameters. MIDI I/O is also included, enabling further creative possibilities with advanced setups.
MD-500 Modes and Algorithms
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the BOSS MD-500?
The BOSS MD-500 is a multi-modulation effects pedal featuring 12 modes and 28 modulation types, designed for both guitar and bass.
2. Can I use batteries to power my BOSS MD-500?
Yes, the MD-500 can run on four AA-size batteries or a PSA-series AC adapter (sold separately).
3. Why isn’t my expression pedal working with my BOSS MD-500?
Your expression pedal may not be working due to incompatibility, incorrect cable type, improper setup, or a firmware issue. Follow the steps below to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Check Compatibility - Use only the specified expression pedal (BOSS EV-30 and Roland EV-5). Other pedals may cause malfunction or damage.
Use a TRS Cable - A stereo TRS cable is required for proper connectivity.
Press [EDIT] to open the menu.
Go to "CONTROL", then press [EDIT].
Select a parameter and adjust the value with the [RATE/VALUE] knob.
If issues persist, check for updates on the BOSS MD-500 Support Page.
For more details, refer to the MD-500 Manual.
4. How do I use two patches simultaneously on my BOSS MD-500?
Press [EDIT].
Use the [UP/DOWN] buttons to select SYSTEM, then press [EDIT] again.
Scroll to FSW MODE and set it to A/B SIMUL using the [RATE/VALUE] knob.
Adjust patch A with the [RATE/VALUE] knob.
Use the [UP/DOWN] buttons to switch to patch B.
Press [EDIT] on either patch to fine-tune settings.
5. Can I use the BOSS MD-500 with MIDI controllers?
Yes, the BOSS MD-500 has MIDI I/O for patch switching, tempo sync, and real-time parameter control with external MIDI devices.
6. Does my BOSS MD-500 have a true bypass?
Yes, the MD-500 supports both buffered bypass and true bypass.
7. How can I integrate my BOSS MD-500 with other pedals?
The BOSS MD-500 features an Insert Loop function that allows you to integrate external effects pedals into its signal chain. This function enables you to position external effects either before or after the MD-500's internal modulation effects on a per-patch basis.
8. Can I use my BOSS MD-500 with a bass guitar?
Yes, the MD-500 has modulation types optimized for both guitar and bass, such as Prime G and Prime B variations.
9. How many patches can I save on my BOSS MD-500?
The MD-500 stores 297 patches, organized into 99 banks with three patches per bank (A, B, and C).
10. Can I set the pre/post position for each individual effect algorithm on the BOSS MD-500?
No, the pre/post setting applies globally and cannot be assigned individually to each effect algorithm.
11. How do I configure the Insert Loop function on the BOSS MD-500?
Press the [EDIT] button.
Navigate to "SYSTEM" and press [EDIT].
Select "INSERT LOOP" and turn it "ON" using the [RATE/VALUE] knob.
Return to the main screen by pressing [EXIT].
To specify the loop's position for a patch:
Press [EDIT], select "PATCH," and press [EDIT].
Choose "INSERT SW" and set it to "PRE" (before the MD-500's effects) or "POST" (after the MD-500's effects) using the [RATE/VALUE] knob.
Save the patch to retain these settings.
*0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms