Today, Boss is announcing two new products that will hit the streets later in September. One is the latest iteration of a popular stompbox line, while another is a kind of Swiss-Army tool for video lessons, low-volume playing, and recording.
First up: The OC-5. The latest in the OC octave pedal line promises ever-finer tracking capabilities and a larger range of notes, including a dedicated octave-up option, a first for this line. It maintains the polyphonic mode of previous iterations, allowing players to easily layer lower (and now higher) notes while playing single notes or chords.
In addition, the OC-5 includes a Vintage mode that, according to Boss, "delivers the OC-2’s iconic mono sound, coupled with improved response thanks to the new tracking engine."
The Pocket GT—a miniature device that includes over 100 effects and amp simulation settings from Boss' GT line—is gearing up to be a perfect present this holiday season.
Beginner and intermediate players will gain a lot from the Pocket GT's integration with YouTube and other video services. Using the device, you can pair it with your phone or tablet to easily watch tutorial videos, set markers, and loop specific passages, all while playing along with amp and effect settings you can match with the song.
"This integrated approach simplifies set up and eliminates switching between apps, giving players a hassle-free way to enjoy premium guitar tones while watching online lessons and jamming with videos," Boss says.
Of course, you don't need to be practicing in order to take advantage of the Pocket GT's effects and amp-sims. And because the device doubles (or maybe triples?) as a USB interface, you can record directly into your computer through it.
Both pedals are available for preorder now. The OC-5 will retail for $129.99 USD, while the Pocket GT will cost $249.99.