What are the four main modes on the Boss PS-6?

The four modes are Harmony, Pitch Shifter, Detune, and S-Bend (Super Bend). Each mode serves a specific purpose ranging from intelligent harmonies to extreme pitch manipulation.

Can the Boss PS-6 create three-voice harmonies?

Yes, the pedal is capable of generating a three-voice harmony. This allows a single guitarist to sound like a trio of instruments playing in unison or intervals.

What is the maximum pitch bend range in S-Bend mode?

The S-Bend mode allows for extreme pitch bends of up to four octaves. This feature is useful for creating dramatic diving or rising sounds during a performance.

Does the PS-6 have stereo outputs?

Yes, the pedal features both mono and stereo outputs. This provides versatility for different amplifier setups and recording configurations.

Can I use an expression pedal with the PS-6?

Yes, the pedal includes an EXP input specifically for an expression pedal. This allows users to externally control parameters such as pitch shift amount in real-time.

Is an expression pedal like the Yamaha FC7 compatible?

The PS-6 is designed to work with standard expression pedals. While Boss recommends their own brand, many users utilise compatible alternatives like the Yamaha FC7.

How does the Detune mode differ from a standard chorus?

Detune adds a rich texture by slightly shifting the pitch of the signal without the cyclical modulation of a chorus. This results in a thick, lush sound that is often more subtle than a Behringer UC200.

Is the harmony tracking intelligent?

Yes, the Harmony mode is intelligent, meaning it shifts the signal based on the key and scale selected by the user. This ensures the generated voices stay musically in tune with the performance.

What is the typical price of the Boss PS-6?

The typical price for the Boss PS-6 Harmony Effects Pedal is approximately GBP 157. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current market conditions.

Would this pedal work well with a noise suppressor?

Yes, pitch pedals can sometimes introduce noise depending on the gain levels in the signal chain. Pairing the PS-6 with a Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor is a common way to keep the signal clean.

Can the PS-6 be used for simple octave effects?

Yes, the Pitch Shifter mode can be set to classic octave intervals. This makes it a versatile tool for creating thick bass-like tones or high-pitched lead lines.

How does it compare to the Digitech Whammy Ricochet?

While both offer pitch-bending capabilities, the PS-6 includes dedicated intelligent harmony and detune modes that the Ricochet lacks. The PS-6 is generally considered more of a multi-functional pitch workstation.

Gear article

Boss PS-6 Harmonist

The Boss PS-6 Harmonist is a compact guitar effects pedal designed to provide intelligent pitch shifting, harmony generation, and detuning. Part of the long-running Boss compact series, it allows musicians to create up to three-voice harmonies and extreme pitch bends of up to four octaves.

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Overview

The Boss PS-6 Harmonist is a versatile pitch-processing tool that combines high-quality audio processing with user-friendly controls. It is housed in the iconic Boss metal chassis, known for its durability on pedalboards. The device is designed to provide four primary effects modes: Harmony, Pitch Shifter, Detune, and Super Bend (S-Bend). By offering both mono and stereo outputs, the pedal can be integrated into a variety of signal chains, from simple mono setups to expansive stereo rigs.

Core Features and Functionality

The pedal's functionality is defined by its four distinct modes:

Harmony: Generates up to three-voice harmonies based on the input signal. Users can select the key and scale to ensure the harmonies remain musically relevant.
Pitch Shifter: Allows for classic octave shifts and interval adjustments.
Detune: Provides a chorus-like thickening effect by subtly shifting the pitch of the signal to create a rich texture.
Super Bend (S-Bend): Enables extreme pitch manipulation, allowing for bends spanning up to four octaves for dramatic performance effects.

The PS-6 also features an EXP input, which is compatible with external controllers such as the Yamaha FC7 Expression Pedal, allowing for real-time manipulation of pitch parameters.

Sound Character and Application

The PS-6 is characterised by its ability to add depth and texture to a guitar's signal. In 'Harmony' mode, it provides an intelligent tracking system that follows the player's notes to create melodic layers. The 'Detune' mode is particularly noted for its ability to add richness without the modulation wobble typical of traditional chorus pedals. For experimental players, the four-octave pitch bend capability offers a range of synth-like and dive-bomb sounds that go beyond traditional guitar utility.

Target Audience

This pedal is suited for lead guitarists who require the sound of multi-part harmony without additional players, as well as experimental musicians looking for unique pitch-shifting textures. Its ease of use makes it accessible for those new to pitch effects, while its deep adjustment parameters satisfy professional requirements. It is a robust addition to pedalboards that may already include staples like the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor or the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to other pitch-shifting options, the PS-6 stands out for its 'Super Bend' mode and multi-voice capabilities. While the Digitech Whammy Ricochet provides a similar foot-switchable pitch-bending experience, the PS-6 offers more traditional intelligent harmony options. For those seeking simpler modulation, the Fender Hammertone Flanger or the Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus provide different textures, but lack the specific pitch-interval precision found in the Harmonist. The PS-6 remains a comprehensive choice for users needing both intelligent harmony and extreme shifting in a single compact unit.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the four main modes on the Boss PS-6?: The four modes are Harmony, Pitch Shifter, Detune, and S-Bend (Super Bend). Each mode serves a specific purpose ranging from intelligent harmonies to extreme pitch manipulation.
Can the Boss PS-6 create three-voice harmonies?: Yes, the pedal is capable of generating a three-voice harmony. This allows a single guitarist to sound like a trio of instruments playing in unison or intervals.
What is the maximum pitch bend range in S-Bend mode?: The S-Bend mode allows for extreme pitch bends of up to four octaves. This feature is useful for creating dramatic diving or rising sounds during a performance.
Does the PS-6 have stereo outputs?: Yes, the pedal features both mono and stereo outputs. This provides versatility for different amplifier setups and recording configurations.
Can I use an expression pedal with the PS-6?: Yes, the pedal includes an EXP input specifically for an expression pedal. This allows users to externally control parameters such as pitch shift amount in real-time.
Is an expression pedal like the Yamaha FC7 compatible?: The PS-6 is designed to work with standard expression pedals. While Boss recommends their own brand, many users utilise compatible alternatives like the Yamaha FC7.
How does the Detune mode differ from a standard chorus?: Detune adds a rich texture by slightly shifting the pitch of the signal without the cyclical modulation of a chorus. This results in a thick, lush sound that is often more subtle than a Behringer UC200.
Is the harmony tracking intelligent?: Yes, the Harmony mode is intelligent, meaning it shifts the signal based on the key and scale selected by the user. This ensures the generated voices stay musically in tune with the performance.
What is the typical price of the Boss PS-6?: The typical price for the Boss PS-6 Harmony Effects Pedal is approximately GBP 157. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current market conditions.
Would this pedal work well with a noise suppressor?: Yes, pitch pedals can sometimes introduce noise depending on the gain levels in the signal chain. Pairing the PS-6 with a Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor is a common way to keep the signal clean.
Can the PS-6 be used for simple octave effects?: Yes, the Pitch Shifter mode can be set to classic octave intervals. This makes it a versatile tool for creating thick bass-like tones or high-pitched lead lines.
How does it compare to the Digitech Whammy Ricochet?: While both offer pitch-bending capabilities, the PS-6 includes dedicated intelligent harmony and detune modes that the Ricochet lacks. The PS-6 is generally considered more of a multi-functional pitch workstation.