Boss Drops the Phone-Sized Pocket GT Multi-FX Unit

September 17, 2020 · 5 sources

Boss announced the Pocket GT, a pocket-size guitar amp and effects processor aimed at practice and playing along with streamed music. The unit runs on the same sound engine as the Boss GT-1 floor processor and carries over 100 amp models and effects, with 99 user memories whose amp and effects settings are compatible with the GT-1¹².

The maker positioned it as a learning tool as much as a multi-effects unit. In its announcement, Boss described it as an "ultra-compact guitar amp/effects processor with powerful integrated learning features"². A companion BOSS Tone Studio app for iOS, Android, Mac and Windows includes a built-in YouTube browser and deep tone editing tools, and dedicated hardware buttons control song and video playback².

Key features announced with the unit:

• Over 100 amp models and effects from the GT-1 sound engine¹²
• 99 user memories, compatible with GT-1 amp and effects settings²
• Bluetooth audio streaming from a smartphone or tablet for playing along³
• Aux In jack for non-Bluetooth music players, drum machines or other devices²
• Built-in rechargeable battery with up to four hours of runtime²
• Optional EV-1-WL wireless MIDI expression pedal and FS-1-WL wireless footswitch for controlling effects²

MusicRadar's Jonathan Horsley reported that the Pocket GT "utilises the same sound engine as the GT-1" and that "there are over 100 amp models and effects to choose from," noting it was expected in stores in late September or October⁴. Guitar World likewise covered the launch, describing a unit that packs an amp modeler, multi-effects processor and practice toolkit into a compact frame⁵.

The BOSS Pocket GT was set to be available for $249.99 in September or October 2020¹. Guitar.com's launch coverage reported the same $249.99 US price⁵⁴.