Boss launches "next-generation" CP-1X multiband compressor and "advanced" AD-2 acoustic preamp pedals

Boss has added a pair of tone-polishing pedals to its ever-expanding compact line-up: the CP-1X Compressor and AD-2 Acoustic Preamp.

Boss CP-1X Compressor

Utilising Boss's Multi-Dimensional Processing, the CP-1X offers multiband guitar compression with intelligent processing that promises advanced dynamic control.

A nifty gain reduction indicator shows the current compression amount, adjusted via level, attack, ratio and comp controls, which also tweak multiple parameters under the hood for constant fine-tuning.

The pedal's digital tech makes for low-noise compression, and its 18V input provides headroom for the hottest pickups - handy given it can handle any genre from country to extended-range prog, apparently.

Boss AD-2 Acoustic Preamp

Promising "studio-quality sound while performing on any stage", the AD-2 offers acoustic-optimised reverb, resonance control for enhancing piezo pickups, plus a feedback-taming notch filter, balanced DI out and mute function for tuning or swapping guitars.

Three knobs adjust these parameters - ambience, notch and acoustic resonance - while holding the pedal's footswitch for two seconds activates the mute function.

Typically well-appointed additions to the market, these. The CP-1X lands at the end of December for £139, while the AD-2 is available from the tail-end of November for £109.

Michael Astley-Brown

Mike is Editor-in-Chief of GuitarWorld.com, in addition to being an offset fiend and recovering pedal addict. He has a master's degree in journalism, and has spent the past decade writing and editing for guitar publications including MusicRadar, Total Guitar and Guitarist, as well as a decade-and-a-half performing in bands of variable genre (and quality). In his free time, you'll find him making progressive instrumental rock under the nom de plume Maebe.