Boss RC-500 LOOP STATION

Performance and creative possibilities

The RC-500 captures your ideas in stereo on two independent tracks so you can stack layers, harmonies, and complete arrangements in real time. Its 32-bit engine ensures precise and detailed loops, even after multiple overdubs. Loop FX (Repeat, Scatter, Shift, Vinyl Flick) and the Reverse function instantly energize your breaks, transitions, and builds.

Workflow and ergonomics

Three footswitches control the essentials (Rec/Play, Stop, Track Select). Two track faders, a dedicated mic level, and an LCD screen with multicolor indicator make editing quick and easy to read. Each track can operate alone or together to layer guitar/vocals, keyboard/drum machine, etc. Connectivity and integration Plug in your mono/stereo instruments, your pedals, and an XLR microphone (48V phantom power available). The RC-500 offers A/B inputs/outputs for routing guitar and vocals to separate destinations, as well as a CTL 1/2 / EXP port for switches/expression pedals. Via MIDI TRS, synchronize rhythm boxes, sequencers, and controllers; via USB, save/restore your WAV loops.

Built-in rhythms and accompaniment

With 57 patterns (A/B variations) and 16 drum kits, the RC-500 delivers inspiring groove. The rhythm section features dedicated reverb that blends naturally with your loops. Perfect for setting a solid tempo, working on your timing, or building entire songs without a computer.

Advanced control and customization

Freely assign functions (tap tempo, Reverse, Loop FX, Start/Stop, etc.) to internal/external switches. Input/output assignments and routing are saved with each phrase, allowing you to adapt the unit to a solo set, duo, or group with a single click. The time-delay bypass preserves the tempo and keeps the beat steady. adapt the unit to a solo set, duo, or group with a single click. The timed bypass preserves signal integrity during switching.

Technical Specifications

Detailed specifications of the BOSS RC-500 Loop Station to check compatibility with your stage and studio setup.

Audio & Recording

• Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz
• A/D-D/A conversion: 32 bits
• Internal processing: 32-bit floating point
• Number of tracks: 2 (stereo)
• Data format: WAV 44.1 kHz, 32-bit float, stereo
• Maximum recording time: approx. 1.5 hours (1 track), approx. 13 hours (total of all memories)

Rhythms & effects

• Built-in rhythms: 57 patterns & 2 variations (A/B)
• Drum kits: 16 types
• Loop FX (tracks): Repeat, Scatter, Shift, Vinyl Flick
• Rhythm effects: Reverb (rhythm section)
• Function: Reverse

Memories & management

• Phrase memories: 99
• USB: backup/restore loops in WAV format

Front panel controls

• Footswitches: REC/PLAY, STOP, TRACK SELECT
• Sliders: TRACK 1, TRACK 2
• Buttons: MEMORY/VALUE, MIC LEVEL, TRACK 1 EDIT, TRACK 2 EDIT, RHYTHM TEMPO, RHYTHM ON/OFF, MEMORY, MENU, EXIT, ENTER, INPUT

Display

• Screen: 96-point graphic LCD 32 dots, RGB backlight (multicolor status indicator)

Connectivity

• Instrument inputs: INST IN A/MONO, INST IN B (1/4" jack)
• Microphone input: Balanced MIC IN XLR with 48 V phantom power V (10mA max)
• Audio outputs: OUTPUT A/MONO, OUTPUT B (1/4" jack)
• External control: CTL 1,2 / EXP (1/4" TRS jack)
• USB: micro-B port (WAV backup/restore)
• MIDI: IN/OUT in mini stereo TRS jack format (BMIDI-5-35 cable optional)
• Power supply: DC IN jack

Levels & impedances

• Nominal input level: MIC IN −40 dBu (variable); INST IN A/MONO, B: −10 dBu
• Maximum input level: MIC IN +8 dBu; INST IN A/MONO, B: +8 dBu
• Input impedance: MIC IN 4 kΩ; INST IN A/MONO, B: 1 MΩ
• Nominal output level: OUTPUT A/MONO, B: -10 dBu
• Maximum output level: OUTPUT A/MONO, B: +8 dBu
• Output impedance: OUTPUT A/MONO, B: 1 kΩ
• Recommended load: 10 kΩ or higher
• Bypass: timed bypass
• Reference: 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms

Power supply, power consumption & battery life

• Power supply: 4 AA (LR6) batteries or PSA-S series AC adapter (optional)
• Power consumption: 330 mA (with phantom power) /& 240 mA (without phantom power)
• Estimated battery life (alkaline batteries): approx. 3.5 hours (without phantom power)/ approx. 2 hours (with phantom power)

Dimensions & Weight

• Dimensions (excluding feet): 170 (W) × 138 (D) × 60 (H) mm — 6-3/4“ × 5-7/16” × 2-3/8“
• Dimensions (with feet): 170 (W) × 138 (D) × 62 (H) mm — 6-3/4” × 5-7/16“ × 2-1/2”
• Weight: 850 g (without batteries) /& 950 g (with batteries)

Included accessories

• Manual
•  “Using the unit safely” leaflet
• 4 AA alkaline batteries (LR6)
• Rubber feet 4

Options (sold separately)

• AC adapter: PSA-S series
• Foot controllers: FS-5U; FS-6, FS-7 dual pedals
• Expression pedals: FV-500H, FV-500L, EV-30, Roland EV-5
• TRS/MIDI cable: BMIDI-5-35