The KSR Eros Boost + EQ is a boost pedal from KSR Amps with a 3-band active EQ for what the maker calls precision sculpting1. KSR describes it as more than a typical boost: it will boost clean without overdrive, add a little grit, or add distortion, depending on how you set it1. Alongside the five knobs it carries two three-position switches, Mode and Feel, which change its character further.
What the Eros does
KSR Amps positions the Eros against the familiar Tube Screamer style of boost. The maker's own words on the product page1:
"This is not 'just another TS style boost,' therefore it should not be setup in that way. e.g. don't crank the Level and..."1
The point, as the maker explains it, is that the Eros has a full Gain control and a 3-band active EQ, so it can push a clean amp, sit as a light grit stage, or run as a distortion on its own1. That range puts it somewhere between a boost, an overdrive and a distortion pedal, with the Mode switch deciding which.
Controls and switches
| Control or switch | Positions | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Gain | Knob | Sets how much drive the pedal adds, from clean boost to distortion1 |
| Bass, Mid, Treble | Knobs | 3-band active EQ for shaping the boosted signal1 |
| Level | Knob | Sets the output volume1 |
| Mode | clean / dirt / clip | Chooses the character of the boost1 |
| Feel | tight / fat / thick | Shapes the low end and body of the sound1 |
The two switches interact with the Gain control. KSR Amps notes that the Feel and Mode switches lose effectiveness the lower the Gain is set, so the switches matter most when the pedal is working harder2.
For starting settings, the maker's guidance is simple: start with Gain and Level both at noon and go from there2. Because it is not a TS style boost, the usual trick of maxing Level and cutting Gain is not how KSR intends it to be used1.
Powering the Eros
The Eros runs on DC 9V with an internal booster and draws at least 100 mA1. KSR Amps recommends a 9V, center negative, 500 mA compatible power supply, the same supply it recommends for the Ceres12.
A power supply is not included with the Eros. KSR Amps flags this on the product page, so plan on a separate 9V center negative supply rated for at least 100 mA, with 500 mA recommended12.
Using it with the KSR Ceres
KSR Amps designed the Eros to work alongside its Ceres pedal. The maker says you can use it before or after the Ceres for even more control over its tones, and in order to get the most out of it1. Both placements are valid; the active EQ will shape the Ceres differently depending on which side of it the Eros sits.
Finishes, versions and price
The Eros has shipped in several finishes, each listed at an original price of $280.00 with finish-specific sale prices1:
| Finish | Original price | Sale price |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Sparkle | $280.00 | $220.001 |
| Metallic Silver | $280.00 | $230.001 |
| Pink Sparkle | $280.00 | $210.001 |
| Blood Moon | 2 |
The current product pages describe the pedal as the Eros, Modern Boost+EQ, and the maker's listing shows it rated 5.00 out of 513. A KSR Eros, Slime Splatter finish is also part of the family.
Videos
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KSR Amps
Ola Englund
Questions
Is the KSR Eros a Tube Screamer style boost?
No. KSR Amps says it is not just another TS style boost and should not be set up that way, for example by cranking the Level and cutting the Gain. The company suggests starting with both Gain and Level at noon and adjusting from there.
Where should the Eros go in relation to the KSR Ceres?
Either side works. KSR Amps says you can use the Eros before or after the Ceres for more control over its tones, and to get the most out of it. Try both placements, since the EQ interacts differently with the Ceres depending on order.
What are good starting settings on the KSR Eros?
Start with Gain and Level both at noon and go from there. KSR Amps notes that the Feel (tight/fat/thick) and Mode (clean/dirt/clip) switches lose effectiveness the lower the Gain is set, so judge the switches with the Gain turned up.
Does the KSR Eros include a power supply?
No. KSR Amps states plainly on the product page that the power supply is not included. You need a 9V DC center negative supply, and the maker recommends one rated for 500 mA.
What do the Feel switch positions do?
The Feel switch has three positions: tight, fat and thick. These shape the low end and body of the boosted signal. KSR Amps notes the switch loses effectiveness at lower Gain settings, so set it with the Gain up.
What power polarity does the Eros need?
Center negative. The Eros runs on DC 9V with an internal booster and draws at least 100 mA, so KSR Amps recommends a 9V center negative supply rated for 500 mA. A small battery-style supply will not cover it.
Sources (3)
- Eros- Orange Sparkle, KSR Amps, 2024-10-17
- Eros - Boost+EQ (Blood Moon) - KSR Amps, KSR Amps (ksramps.com), 2022-06-24
- In-Stock Eros, KSR Amps, 2022-09-26
