Where a conventional gate simply opens and closes at a set threshold, the NS-1X uses high-speed digital technology to analyze the input signal on multiple levels in real time1. BOSS says the proprietary MDP approach delivers fast, transparent operation in every application, eliminating the unnatural attack and decay artifacts that standard noise suppression systems can introduce, and that it intelligently silences noise without affecting the natural tone and playing feel of your guitar or bass1.
Three modes: Reduction, Gate and Mute
The NS-1X offers three operation modes, selected to fine-tune the noise suppression for your needs1.
| Mode | What it does | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Reduction | Gentle noise suppression; natural, noise-free note decay with all pickup types, including low-output single coils | Most instruments and playing styles1 |
| Gate | Immediately silences the sound when no signal is present; punchy note attack and a natural playing feel | High-gain players, djent, metal and progressive metal, tapping and sweep picking14 |
| Mute | Silences the instrument signal when the pedal switch is on | Use as a mute switch4 |
BOSS's own buying guide describes the split in practical terms: Reduction mode is for general noise suppression applications, more subtle than Gate mode, eliminating errant noise while retaining maximum natural note decay and tone. Gate mode provides ultra-fast noise elimination for tapping, sweep picking and heavy rhythm styles that rely on high gain4.
In Mute mode, the pedal silences the instrument signal when the pedal switch is on. When the switch is off, the pedal operates in either Reduction or Gate mode, and you assign which one using a simple power-up procedure42.
The controls
The front panel keeps things to a handful of knobs and a switch5:
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| Threshold | Determines the level where noise suppression begins1 |
| Decay | Determines when the selected mode reaches maximum noise suppression; start at the lowest setting and turn clockwise for a more natural decay1 |
| Damp | Controls the maximum amount of noise reduction; higher settings are stronger and clearer, lower settings may sound more natural with some playing styles1 |
| Mode | Switch between Gate, Reduction and Mute5 |
| Reduction Indicator | Displays the current noise suppression status1 |
BOSS gives specific setup directions for the Threshold knob. In Reduction mode, start with the knob at the lowest setting and turn it clockwise until the noise disappears. In Gate mode, start at the highest setting and gradually turn the knob down until the attack response feels right to you1.
Guitar Pedal X's review notes the Damp control is labeled "MDP Refine" on the panel, alongside Threshold, Decay and the Mode switch5.
Connections and the send/return loop
Along with standard input and output connectors, the NS-1X features a send/return loop for enhanced performance with distortions, overdrives and other noise-producing pedals2. Placing your dirt pedals inside the loop lets the NS-1X analyze the signal before the gain stages do their work and apply suppression after them, which is the same four-cable approach players have long used with the NS-2 and gates like the MXR Noise Clamp and Electro-Harmonix The Silencer.
The send/return loop is the key to getting the most from the pedal with a high-gain rig: BOSS positions it specifically for use with distortions, overdrives and other noise-producing pedals2.
Where it came from
It is the latest addition to BOSS's X series lineup of compact pedals powered by MDP technology2.
What reviewers said
Gearnews's verdict at launch was positive:
"This latest NS-1X could be the perfect gate for a lot of musicians and therefore well worth checking out"6
Jef, Gearnews, 14 September 20236
Videos
Pete Thorn
BOSSchannel
Leon Todd
Questions
Is the Boss NS-1X analog or digital?
It is digital. The NS-1X uses high-speed digital technology to analyze the input signal on multiple levels in real time, which is the core of BOSS's Multi-Dimensional Processing (MDP) approach. That real-time, multi-level analysis is what lets it suppress noise without the unnatural attack and decay artifacts of standard noise suppression systems.
What is the difference between the NS-1X and the NS-2?
The NS-1X is BOSS's first new noise suppressor pedal since the NS-2 arrived in 1987. It updates the concept with Multi-Dimensional Processing (MDP), a digital approach that analyzes the input signal on multiple levels in real time, and it is part of the X series of compact MDP-powered pedals rather than the older analog-era line.
How do I use the NS-1X as a mute switch?
Choose Mute mode. In Mute mode the pedal silences the instrument signal whenever the pedal switch is on. When the switch is off, the pedal runs in either Reduction or Gate mode, and you choose which one via a simple power-up procedure.
Sources (6)
- BOSS - NS-1X | Noise Suppressor, BOSS (boss.info)
- Boss Introduces the NS-1X Noise Suppressor Pedal, Premier Guitar, 2023-09-14
- The 7 Best Noise Gate Pedals of 2026: Not Hiss Problem (or Hers), gearnews.com, 2026-07-27
- The Complete Guide to Noise Gate and Suppressor Pedals, BOSS (articles.boss.info), 2023-11-30
- Guitar Pedal X, Guitar Pedal X, 2025-05-26
- BOSS NS-1X Noise Suppressor Pedal with MDP, gearnews.com, 2023-09-14
