Boss EQ-200 Graphic Equalizer
BOSS introduces a new line of pedals with the 200 series, which compactly stores superior sound and functionality into a compact form that takes up space on your board. Operation is simple and intuitive with grab-and-go controls and multi-function switches, while onboard memory allows you to store several configurations for instant retrieval. Every one of the 200 series pedals comes with high-quality audio and support for external control via footswitches, an expression pedal, or MIDI.
The EQ-200 is the world’s most adaptable guitar and bass compact EQ. It has an on-board graphical display that shows the current EQ curve at a glance, as well as two 10-band equalization channels. The channels may be configured for stereo, parallel, or series operation, and external pedals may even be patched in for deep pre/post tone shaping. Moreover, you may select three distinct EQ-200 performance settings for each of the 10 bands’ frequency centers. This allows you to maximize the EQ-200’s efficacy for various instruments.
Version 1.1 Update: User Memory Expansion
The BOSS 200 series gets considerable extra memory capacity for storing and retrieving sounds thanks to the free Version 1.1 software update. There are currently 128 user configurations available. MIDI program change may also be used to recall setups. Each 200 series pedal’s Version 1.1 update is accessible via the Downloads page.
Features Boss EQ-200
- With a 32-bit AD/DA, 32-bit floating point processing, and a 96 kHz sampling rate, class-leading sound quality is achieved.
- In stereo, parallel, or series, dual 10-band EQs are available.
- Pre and/or post tone shaping is applied to the inserted function for processing external effects.
- 30 Hz to 12.8 kHz, 32 Hz to 16 kHz, and 28 Hz to 14 kHz are the three different range settings.
- Each band has a 15-dB boost/cut, and each channel has an overall level adjustment.
- For operating both EQ channels at the same time, a stereo link function is available.
- Hands-on sliders and a graphic EQ display are included in the intuitive interface.
- With a footswitch or dedicated panel button, recall previous memories in sequence as well as real-time panel settings.
- To prevent unwanted modifications, the function Panel Lock is enabled.
- Two footswitches are installed on the console, each with its own set of customizable settings.
- External footswitches, an expression pedal, and MIDI can all be used to give more control.
- Mini TRS jacks (BMIDI-5-35 adaptor cable available separately) are used to provide full MIDI I/O.
- For firmware updates, there’s a Micro USB port.
- PSA-series AC adapter, or three AA batteries, are required.
Benefits EQ-200 Graphic Equalizer
Reading the manual is crucial for this unit, because the labeling and UI can be confusing to someone who just received this unit. It sounds just fine, boosts frequencies, and nothing incredibly special. The memory feature is nice and the footswitch allows to change memories, it has a manual mode and two channels, the menu can configure the foot-switches’ operation modes.
Personally, I don’t really get sold on the stereo feature and would just use this as a dual mono EQ with a memory switching ability. I think someone with good routing experience could find many uses for this as a chain effect.
- I love that it has Midi capabilities.
- It is very easy to program and with the new update it has so many presets available for anybody’s needs.
- The best feature is the ability to run an EQ both before and after distortion. Using both of those together, your tonal possibilities are endless.
- Fantastic pedal with lots of presets/flexibility.
- Sounds great and is built like tank!
- 2 ins, 2 outs, presets, and a great graphic interface make this equalizer arguably the strongest and most versatile in its price range.
I’m really enjoying the 200 Series form factor, sturdy but not bulky, sparkly, excellent DSP processing, 200 programmable preset slots, and STEREO. I need another one for my synths now… I noticed another reviewer pointed out that the little screen giving visual feedback is pointless if you’re looking at the same curve made by the faders. This is true only in that sense, because once you’ve saved more than one preset, you can look at the saved curve in the screen and throw the faders to those positions in order to edit the preset or simply try adjustments.
Conclusion
Boss EQ-200, based on reviews I wanted to give it a try. However, my first intention was to use it not for my guitar but as a Microphone input EQ. I’ve been looking for a dedicated microphone EQ and didn’t what to have to purchase an entire amp system or a unit of larger size that only adjusted Low – Mid – High range. Based on some Amazon buyer feedbacks, I figured I give it a try. I can report that it worked great and I was surprised on how much I was able to improve vocal output. It did such a great job with the microphone I decided to buy a second unit for my guitar. Using it with guitar I found it was much more difficult to fine tune and shape the sound of the guitar output to my satisfaction. I think if the slider had twice the travel it likely would be a big improvement. Still, it’s was obvious that with more practice it likely will be a very useful tool. Also, the fact you could save 4 setting as presets was Great. BUT WAIT! Roland/Boss just updated the firmware so that you can now save 200 presets. For me that much more than I will ever use, but you can program the unit to have much less so that you don’t have to scroll through more than you need. I do feel it’s a bit over priced for an EQ pedal but based on the reviews and it’s feature it’s a nice unit to have. It might be even be THE Unit to have.
