Boss RC-500 Parameter Guide

Boss RC-500 manual cover
Pages 14
Year 2020
Language(s)
English en

Boss RC-500 Specification

The Boss RC-500 is a compact and versatile loop station designed for musicians seeking a powerful tool for live performances, songwriting, and practice sessions. It features two stereo tracks with dedicated controls, allowing for complex layering and intricate musical arrangements. Each track can be operated independently, providing flexibility in managing loops. The RC-500 is equipped with high-quality 32-bit AD/DA and 32-bit floating-point processing, ensuring pristine audio quality. It offers onboard memory capable of storing up to 99 phrase memories, enabling users to save and recall their loops easily.

The loop station includes a range of built-in effects to enhance creativity, including reverb, rhythm patterns, and various loop-optimized effects. The rhythm library includes over 57 preset rhythms with A/B variations, covering a wide array of musical genres, which can be synchronized with loop playback using the versatile tap tempo function. The RC-500 features a clear and intuitive interface with a backlit LCD screen, providing easy navigation and real-time visual feedback of the loop status.

Connectivity options are extensive, with stereo inputs and outputs, XLR input with phantom power for microphones, and MIDI I/O for integration with other devices. It also includes a USB port for importing and exporting WAV files and for using the Boss Tone Studio software, which facilitates loop management and track editing on a computer. The RC-500 is powered by four AA batteries or an optional AC adapter, offering flexibility for different performance environments. With its robust construction and user-friendly design, the Boss RC-500 is an ideal choice for musicians looking to expand their creative horizons through looping.

Boss RC-500 F.A.Q.

How do I perform a factory reset on the Boss RC-500?

To perform a factory reset on the Boss RC-500, hold down the MEMORY button and turn on the power. Keep holding the MEMORY button until "FACTORY RESET" appears on the display, then follow the prompts to complete the reset.

What is the best way to connect the Boss RC-500 to a computer for firmware updates?

Connect the Boss RC-500 to your computer using a USB cable. Ensure that the RC-500 is powered on, then access the device through your computer's file explorer to copy firmware update files into the root directory.

How can I store a loop in a memory slot on the RC-500?

To store a loop, press the WRITE button after recording your loop. Use the MEMORY/VALUE dial to select the desired memory slot, then press WRITE again to save the loop to that slot.

Can I use external footswitches with the Boss RC-500?

Yes, the RC-500 supports external footswitches. Connect them to the CTL 1,2/EXP jack. You can assign functions to the footswitches via the system settings menu.

What should I do if my loops have uneven volume levels?

Ensure that the input level is properly adjusted before recording. Use the level knobs for each track to balance volumes, and consider using a compressor effect to maintain consistent levels.

How do I delete a specific track from a loop on the RC-500?

To delete a specific track, press the TRACK SELECT button for the track you wish to delete, then hold the STOP button until "CLEAR TRACK" appears. Confirm by pressing the WRITE button.

What is the maximum recording time available on the Boss RC-500?

The Boss RC-500 offers a maximum of 13 hours of stereo recording time, which is shared across all memory slots. Ensure sufficient memory is available before recording long sessions.

How do I synchronize the RC-500 with other MIDI devices?

Use MIDI IN/OUT ports to connect the RC-500 with other MIDI devices. Set the RC-500 to MIDI clock sync mode via the system settings to match the tempo with connected devices.

Can I change the tempo of a recorded loop without altering its pitch?

Yes, you can change the tempo of a recorded loop by adjusting the TEMPO knob. The RC-500 features time-stretching technology that allows tempo changes without affecting pitch.

What should I do if the RC-500 is not powering on?

Check the power supply connection and ensure the adapter is working. If using batteries, ensure they are inserted correctly and have sufficient charge. If problems persist, consult the user manual or contact support.