BOSS CS-3

Countless guitarists rely on the CS-3 Compression Sustainer for its smooth tone and remarkable versatility. From gentle dynamics control to lush, clean sustain, this blue BOSS classic delivers exceptional balance and clarity, whether playing rhythm or lead. The Level, Tone, Attack, and Sustain knobs provide precise, intuitive control, allowing you to shape your sound for any musical style. In continuous production since 1986, the CS-3 remains a staple for players seeking natural-sounding compression.

• Classic analog compressor pedal favoured by guitarists for decades.
• Provides natural compression and rich sustain without adding distortion.
• Attack and Sustain knobs shape dynamics with clarity and smoothness.
• Tone knob for adjusting the high-frequency response.
• High-performance VCA circuit delivers stable, balanced sound.
• Low-noise design for transparent operation.
• BOSS five-year warranty.

Compression evens out volume by reducing loud signals while boosting soft ones, and the CS-3’s Attack knob determines how quickly the circuit reacts. Turning it clockwise preserves string attack for a snappier, more percussive sound, while counter clockwise settings provide progressive control over signal spikes. Twisting the Sustain knob increases the amount of compression, allowing you to tighten the sound and produce natural sustain without distortion.

The CS-3 features a high-performance VCA circuit that delivers stable, consistent compression with very low noise. Renowned for its distinctive character and well-balanced response, the pedal maintains clarity across all playing styles. It excels at everything from hot country licks and punchy power chords to singing solos, making it an essential tone-enhancing tool.

The Tone knob adds another layer of versatility by shaping the EQ of the compressed signal. Higher settings enhance the treble for a sharper, more cutting tone - perfect for chimey arpeggios, funk rhythms, and parts that need to stand out. Rolling it back softens the highs, creating a warm, mellow voice that suits genres like jazz and neo soul. Whether you need some extra bite or a smoother feel, the CS-3 helps you sculpt your sound to match the music you’re playing.

• Nominal Input Level: -20 dBu
• Input Impedance: 1 M ohm
• Nominal Output Level: -20 dBu
• Output Impedance: 1 k ohm
• Recommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greater
• Bypass: Buffered bypass

Controls:

• SUSTAIN knob
• ATTACK knob
• TONE knob
• LEVEL knob
• Pedal switch

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:

• Carbon-zinc battery (9V, 6F22) or Alkaline battery (9V, 6LR61)
• AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately)

Current Draw: 20 mA

Expected battery life under continuous use:

• Carbon: Approx. 10.5 hours
• Alkaline: Approx. 26 hours
• *These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.

Accessories:

• Leaflet ("USING THE UNIT SAFELY," "IMPORTANT NOTES," and "Information")
• Dry battery/9 V type (6F22)

Size and Weight:

• Width: 73 mm
• Depth: 129 mm
• Height: 59 mm
• Weight: 380 g