Boss RC-5 Loop Station

I have used many BOSS loopers over the years - the RC-1, RC-3, RC-30 and I am now using the RC-10R and the RC-5. I love how easy they are to use and the sound quality of these is so much better than the previous RC-3 which I upgraded from. These ones with storage are also great for saving song ideas on the fly and also for loading up backing tracks. Then there is the BOSS build quality - they last forever. The absolute best part of all the BOSS loopers though is the external switch jack. This means you can use an external button as a dedicated stop switch. This makes things much easier as you no longer have to double press to stop. I have even gotten small stop buttons built into my loopers to save space. It be great if BOSS offered this mod from the factory.

The Boss RC-5 Loop Station has swiftly become a key component in my musical setup. What started as curiosity about its capabilities has turned into a deep appreciation for its performance. The RC-5 impresses with its blend of powerful features and intuitive design, making it an indispensable tool for both live performances and studio sessions. Its ability to enhance creativity and streamline workflow is truly remarkable.

The RC-5 is packed with features that cater to both novice and advanced users. Its compact and robust design houses a range of powerful capabilities. The high-resolution LCD screen provides clear visual feedback, making it easy to navigate through various functions and settings. With up to 13 hours of recording time and 99 phrase memories, it offers plenty of space for complex loops and layering.

One of the standout features is its versatility in sound manipulation. The RC-5 allows for seamless integration with other effects, providing endless possibilities for creating unique soundscapes. The built-in rhythm guide is an excellent addition for timing and groove, while the USB connectivity facilitates easy data management and firmware updates.

The loop station also excels in its ease of use. The intuitive interface and footswitch controls ensure that you can focus on your performance without getting bogged down by complicated setups. The ability to sync with external gear and create elaborate loops on the fly makes it a powerful addition to any musician's arsenal.

In conclusion, the Boss RC-5 Loop Station is a versatile and powerful tool that enhances any musical setup. Its comprehensive features, combined with its user-friendly interface, make it an excellent choice for both live performance and studio work. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting, the RC-5 will elevate your creativity and provide endless opportunities for musical exploration. Highly recommended for anyone looking to push the boundaries of their music.

I had a Boss looper before and while I never had an issue with recording or sound quality the interface was not intuitive.

The RC-5 is so much easier to use. I also added an FS-7 (set to navigate loops). I mainly use this to catch licks and riffs and leave them on the looper until I record it in a song. This iswhere the RC-5 Shines with it's 99 slots there plenty of spots to park ideas until they can be worked out. There have been plenty of times where I get another idea before I've worked out the one on the looper and it is lost forever.

The sound quality is great and the interface is quite easy to navigate. I did watch a video on how to set it up with a footswitch and that saved me loads of time during the initial set up.

Is it expensive? Yes. Is it worth it? I think so, I would buy it again if lost or stolen.

I wanted to have a looper for my live setting, but REALLY didn't want to sacrifice pedalboard space or hundreds of euros to buy a looper I'd use for 2 or 3 songs on my band's sets.

I needed a looper that can quantise and that would be in sync with my drummer's MIDI Clock. Our guitarist has a RC-600 looper which is outstanding but obviously too much for my bass guitar setup, so I needed a mini version of his looper station and this pedal is exactly what I needed.

It's actually much more than that, I can control so many actions from an external controller and there is also a drum machine which works pretty good for home practicing or recording ideas. I can imagine that some people can use the drum machine for a live gig too, but it is not something I am planning to do.

All in all, this is a well-priced compact looper which is reliable and has great sound quality.

I bought this product because of its MIDI capabilities but unfortunately it appears to have issues that BOSS really should have fixed by now.

1) The device is limited to eight CC numbers between 80 and 87, which can be assigned to various functions. There are considerably more than eight functions available, so you must choose wisely.

2) The RC-5 reference manual does a incredibly poor job of explaining how the device is controlled by MIDI. Some functions like Track Clear require you send two CC's, others split their options over the 0-127 value range. None of this is explained in the reference manual. Amateurish documentation, one star docked.

3) It is not possible to enter overdub mode via a MIDI command. This is basic functionality that absolutely must be available. In my rig, I have my MIDI controller separate from my pedalboard and they communicate wirelessly. The only way I have found to get the RC-5 to enter overdub mode remotely is to use the control port, meaning I either have to run a cable from my MIDI controller to the RC-5 or invest in a relay switcher which would sit beneath my pedalboard. Shame on you BOSS, one star docked.

For those considering purchasing this device, be aware that the MIDI limitations may make this product more trouble than it is worth.

Good product. Crap sales practice.
RC5 is great so far. I would like to have a separate on/off switch so I could leave it connected to amp. There is no user manual with the box and it contains a QR code card for user manual that takes you to BOSS website but they try to make you sign up (which means agreeing to terms of service) to get the manual which is quite anti-consumer but you can find good tutorials from google. It also DOES NOT contain power adapter and in the spirit of saving the planet they also don't tell the specs of the adapter that could be used and instead push you to buy the overpriced power adapter.