Boss LS-2 Line Selector Pedal review for versatile electric guitar effects setup

Description

Advantages of the Boss LS-2 Line Selector Pedal

Having tested the Boss LS-2 Line Selector Pedal, I can confidently say it brings a level of versatility that is hard to beat. This compact line selection pedal is a dream for anyone managing multiple effects pedals or amps. I’ve personally used it during jam sessions, and it feels like a tool that simplifies everything without compromising sound quality.

• The two line loops with adjustable level control are a game-changer, allowing me to seamlessly switch between different effect chains.
• Its six looping modes provide immense flexibility, whether you want A/B switching, parallel effects blending, or other configurations.
• What stood out most was the ability to power multiple BOSS compact pedals using an AC adapter, which reduced cable clutter on my pedalboard.
• The analog signal format ensures no degradation in sound quality, which is crucial for live performances.
• I also liked how light it feels at just 1.01 pounds, making it easy to carry around for gigs or practice sessions.

I found the line selection features particularly useful for creating unique tone combinations, making this pedal a valuable addition to any rig.

Bad Points of the Design

While the Boss LS-2 is undeniably useful, there are some areas where it could use improvement. During my time with it, a few things stood out that others considering this pedal might want to be aware of:

• The small knobs for level control can be tricky to adjust in dim lighting.
• Although the 1/4-inch audio hardware interface is standard, it might not cater to more advanced setups requiring additional connectivity options.
• The 9V battery option is helpful, but it drains quickly if you forget to unplug the cables, which can interrupt your session.
• For a beginner, the six looping modes might feel overwhelming without some trial and error.

These are minor inconveniences in the grand scheme of things, but they’re worth mentioning for anyone considering this pedal.

Ease of Use and Versatility

The beauty of the Boss LS-2 Line Selector Pedal lies in its simplicity and adaptability. I was amazed by how quickly I could integrate it into my setup. The compact design makes it easy to tuck into any pedalboard, and the six looping modes cater to various needs, whether for live performances or studio work. Switching between my clean and distorted tones was seamless, and the level control feature allowed me to balance volumes perfectly.

One of my favorite uses was blending effects in parallel loops. For example, I could run a reverb pedal on one line and a delay on another, creating lush soundscapes that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. While it might require a bit of experimentation to unlock its full potential, the user-friendly layout ensures even intermediate players can get the hang of it quickly.

Build Quality and Durability

The build quality of this pedal deserves a mention. True to the reputation of BOSS products, the LS-2 Line Selector Pedal feels incredibly sturdy. Made in Japan, the attention to detail is evident, and it has a metal chassis that can take a beating. I’ve accidentally dropped it a couple of times, and it hasn’t shown any signs of wear. The silver finish gives it a sleek look, and the compact size ensures it doesn’t hog space on the pedalboard.

However, the small size of the knobs could pose an issue for those with larger hands or during live performances where quick adjustments are necessary. That said, the durability outweighs this minor flaw, making it a reliable tool for frequent use.

Competing Brands

It’s impossible to talk about a line selector pedal without comparing it to other options available in the market. While the LS-2 is undoubtedly versatile, products like the Electro-Harmonix Switchblade+ and the Radial BigShot ABY offer stiff competition.

The Switchblade+ is highly affordable and provides basic A/B switching functionality, but it lacks the level control and looping modes that make the LS-2 stand out. On the other hand, the BigShot ABY is known for its superior signal isolation, which reduces noise, but it’s much bulkier and doesn’t offer the same power-sharing feature.

Where the Boss LS-2 shines is its multi-functional design, combining a line selector, level controller, and power supply into one compact unit. However, if you’re looking for absolute simplicity or advanced noise isolation, you might prefer the competitors.

Quality for Price

When evaluating the value proposition of the Boss LS-2, it’s clear that it offers excellent features for the price. While some might argue that standalone A/B switches are cheaper, they don’t come close to the functionality and versatility of this pedal. The fact that it can power other pedals adds to its utility, ultimately saving you money on additional power supplies.

Its six looping modes and level control justify the investment, especially for those with complex setups. Compared to similar products, the LS-2 strikes a perfect balance between affordability and quality, making it a smart choice for both beginners and seasoned players.

This pedal may not be the cheapest option on the market, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most feature-packed. For anyone looking to improve their pedalboard’s efficiency, it’s worth every penny.

Additional information