BOSS SP-1 Spectrum Effect Pedal, Renewed Version

Please note: this is not the original release of SP-1. It's the 40th anniversary reissued version. Original box missing.

In the long history of BOSS compacts, the SP-1 stands out as one of the most unique pedals. Derived from an effect built into some early Roland guitar and bass amps, the SP-1 is basically a single-band parametric equalizer with a fixed level boost. The Spectrum knob allows you to sweep the center frequency from 500 Hz to 5 kHz, while the Balance knob adjusts the mix of the direct and effect sounds while keeping the overall level consistent. When used with guitar, the SP-1 produces a sound similar to a wah pedal set at a fixed position, but with a more focused boost at the center frequency. However, the SP-1 was most often used by bassists, who found it to be a great tool for cutting through the mix on stage. In either application, the Balance knob is very useful for filling out the sound with a bit of direct tone as needed. The SP-1 was produced in limited numbers until 1981. It’s probably the hardest vintage BOSS pedal to find on the used market, and commands the highest prices as a result. For the reissue, each individual preset resistor has been meticulously tuned by hand, ensuring fully accurate reproduction of the original SP-1 sound.

Nominal Input Level
-20 dBu
Input Impedance
470 k ohms
Nominal Output Level
-20 dBu
Output Impedance
470 ohms
Recommended Load Impedance
600 ohms or greater
Bypass
Buffered bypass
Controls
Pedal switch
BALANCE knob
SPECTRUM knob
Indicator
CHECK indicator (serves also as battery check indicator)
Connectors
INPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
DC IN jack
Power Supply
Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61) or Carbon-zinc battery (9 V, 6F22)
AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately)
Current Draw
10 mA
Expected Battery Life Under Continuous Use
Alkaline: Approx. 139 hours
Carbon: Approx. 85 hours
* These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.