Boss RC-500 Loop Station

The BOSS RC-500 Loop Station is a powerful two-track stereo looper created for guitarists, singer-songwriters, vocalists and multi-instrumental performers. It combines premium 32-bit sound quality with independent track control, a dedicated microphone input, built-in rhythms and flexible performance features in a compact, pedalboard-friendly design.

Two separate stereo tracks give you far more control than a traditional single-track loop pedal. Build rhythm and lead parts independently, create verse and chorus sections, layer vocals over an instrument or stop one part while allowing the other to continue.

The RC-500 also includes hands-on track faders, assignable footswitch functions, creative Loop FX, 99 phrase memories and extensive external control options. Whether you are developing song ideas at home, practising with rhythms or building complete arrangements on stage, it provides an effective balance of depth, portability and straightforward operation.

Why Choose the BOSS RC-500?

Two Independent Stereo Loop Tracks

The RC-500 features two separate stereo phrase tracks that can be used together or independently.

You can place rhythm guitar on one track and lead parts on the other, separate vocals from an instrument or use the two tracks as different song sections. Dedicated track-selection controls and individual volume faders make it easy to manage each part during a performance.

Premium 32-Bit Audio Quality

BOSS has equipped the RC-500 with 32-bit AD/DA conversion and 32-bit floating-point processing.

This high-resolution signal path helps preserve the character and dynamics of your original sound, even after multiple overdubs. Layered guitar parts, vocals, keyboards and percussion remain clear and defined rather than becoming congested as the arrangement grows.

Dedicated Microphone Input

A balanced XLR microphone input allows vocals, acoustic instruments, beatboxing and percussion to be connected directly to the RC-500.

Switchable 48V phantom power supports compatible condenser microphones, while the dedicated microphone level control provides quick access to the input volume.

Combined with the stereo instrument inputs, this makes the RC-500 particularly suitable for singer-songwriters and performers who want to loop vocals and instruments from one compact unit.

Direct Track Mixing

Separate volume faders for Tracks 1 and 2 provide immediate control over the balance of your loops.

You can bring a supporting part into the arrangement gradually, reduce a busy layer or quickly adjust the balance between instrumental and vocal loops without opening a menu.

Flexible Footswitch Control

Three onboard footswitches provide direct control over recording, playback, stopping and track selection.

Their functions can be reassigned to suit your preferred workflow. External footswitches or an expression pedal can also be connected when you need additional control over rhythms, effects, track functions or other parameters.

Built-In Rhythms

The RC-500 includes 57 rhythm patterns, each with two variations, plus 16 different drum kits.

The rhythm section can provide a steady backing for practice, songwriting and live performance. Different patterns and kits allow you to match the accompaniment more closely to your musical style, while the two variations help add movement between song sections.

Creative Loop Effects

Four performance-focused Loop FX allow captured phrases to be transformed in real time:

• Beat Repeat
• Beat Shift
• Beat Scatter
• Vinyl Flick

These effects can add rhythmic movement, stuttering textures and more experimental transitions to a loop performance. A reverse function is also available for creating atmospheric and unconventional sounds.

99 Phrase Memories

The RC-500 includes 99 memory locations for storing loop audio and associated settings.

Each memory can retain your recorded phrases, rhythm selection, audio settings and control assignments. This allows complete performance setups to be prepared in advance and recalled when required.

Extensive Recording Capacity

Up to approximately 13 hours of stereo audio can be stored across the RC-500’s memories, with a maximum recording time of approximately 1.5 hours for an individual track.

This provides ample capacity for extended performances, songwriting sessions, backing material and detailed layered arrangements.

USB and MIDI Connectivity

USB connectivity allows recorded loops to be backed up to a computer and compatible WAV files to be loaded into the pedal using BOSS Tone Studio.

MIDI In and Out connections allow the RC-500 to communicate with compatible drum machines, sequencers, foot controllers and computer-based production systems. The MIDI connections use space-saving stereo miniature sockets and require suitable TRS MIDI cables or adaptors.

Battery or Mains Operation

The RC-500 can operate from four AA alkaline batteries, making it practical for portable setups and performances where mains power is unavailable.

It can also be powered using a compatible BOSS PSA-series AC adaptor for pedalboards, studios and longer performances.

Key Features

• Advanced two-track stereo Loop Station
• Independent operation for each loop track
• 32-bit AD/DA conversion
• 32-bit floating-point internal processing
• Approximately 13 hours of total stereo recording
• Approximately 1.5 hours of recording per individual track
• 99 phrase memories
• Three assignable onboard footswitches
• Individual volume faders for Tracks 1 and 2
• Dedicated XLR microphone input
• Switchable 48V phantom power
• Mono or stereo instrument inputs
• Stereo outputs
• Four creative Loop FX
• Reverse playback function
• 57 rhythm patterns with two variations each
• 16 onboard drum kits
• Multicolour backlit LCD screen
• External footswitch and expression-pedal support
• MIDI In and Out
• USB audio-file transfer and backup
• Battery or optional mains operation
• Durable metal construction

Why Choose a Two-Track Loop Station?

A two-track looper provides greater arrangement control than a traditional single-loop pedal without introducing the size and complexity of a large multi-track system.

Keeping parts on separate tracks allows you to control them independently. For example, you could record a chord progression on Track 1 and use Track 2 for percussion, lead parts or vocal harmonies. One track can then be stopped, restarted or adjusted without affecting the other.

Two tracks can also be configured around different sections of a song. This gives solo performers the ability to move between contrasting parts rather than relying on one continuously repeating phrase.

The RC-500 is therefore a strong choice for musicians who have outgrown a basic looper but do not require the six-track architecture and extensive routing of the flagship RC-600.

Who Is the BOSS RC-500 For?

Guitarists

The stereo instrument connections make it easy to integrate the RC-500 into mono or stereo guitar rigs. Its two-track operation is ideal for separating rhythm and lead parts or building structured instrumental arrangements.

Singer-Songwriters

A dedicated XLR microphone input allows vocals and instruments to be recorded at the same time, while the onboard rhythms provide an immediate foundation for performance and songwriting.

Vocalists and Beatboxers

The balanced microphone input, phantom power and independent tracks make the RC-500 suitable for layered vocals, harmonies, beatboxing and vocal percussion.

Acoustic Performers

An electro-acoustic guitar and vocal microphone can be connected simultaneously, creating a compact live-looping system for solo performers.

Bassists

Bass players can use the RC-500 to develop grooves, harmonies and melodic ideas or build complete layered bass arrangements.

Keyboard Players

Stereo inputs preserve the width of stereo keyboards, synthesisers and stage pianos, while MIDI support allows the looper to become part of a wider electronic setup.

Multi-Instrumentalists

The RC-500 can capture guitars, basses, keyboards, microphones, percussion and other sources, making it a practical creative hub for performers who regularly switch between instruments.

Songwriters and Home Musicians

The two-track design provides a quick way to develop chord progressions, melodies, vocal ideas and arrangements without opening recording software.

What’s Included?

• BOSS RC-500 Loop Station
• Four AA alkaline batteries
• Four rubber feet
• Owner’s manual
• Safety and information leaflets

The BOSS PSA-series AC adaptor is available separately.

Technical Specifications

Power Requirements

The BOSS RC-500 can be powered using four AA alkaline batteries or a compatible BOSS PSA-series AC adaptor.

Battery operation provides approximately 3.5 hours of continuous use without phantom power or approximately two hours when phantom power is active. Actual battery life will depend on operating conditions and battery quality.

For regular pedalboard use, rehearsals and live performances, a suitable regulated BOSS PSA-series adaptor provides the most dependable power solution.

The AC adaptor is available separately.

BOSS RC-500 Compared with the BOSS RC-5

The BOSS RC-5 is a compact single-track looper designed for players who want advanced audio quality, built-in rhythms and memory storage in a standard pedal-sized format.

The RC-500 offers two independent stereo tracks, three onboard footswitches, individual track faders and a dedicated XLR microphone input with phantom power. This makes it better suited to structured performances, vocal looping and arrangements containing several independently controlled parts.

Choose the RC-5 when pedalboard space and straightforward single-track looping are the priority. Choose the RC-500 when you need separate tracks, direct mixing controls or microphone connectivity.

BOSS RC-500 Compared with the BOSS RC-600

The BOSS RC-600 is the flagship floor-based Loop Station, offering six stereo tracks, nine footswitches, two microphone inputs, more advanced effects and significantly deeper routing.

The RC-500 is more compact and places its focus on accessible two-track looping. It is easier to accommodate on a pedalboard and provides enough flexibility for many guitarists, singer-songwriters and solo performers without requiring the more involved workflow of the RC-600.

Choose the RC-500 for a portable, powerful two-track system. Choose the RC-600 when your performance requires several independent tracks, multiple microphones, extensive effects or advanced output routing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the BOSS RC-500 record two loops independently?

Yes. The RC-500 contains two separate stereo tracks that can be recorded, played, stopped and adjusted independently.

This makes it possible to separate different instruments, vocals or song sections rather than combining every part into one loop.

Can I connect a guitar and microphone at the same time?

Yes. The RC-500 has stereo instrument inputs and a separate balanced XLR microphone input, allowing an instrument and microphone to remain connected simultaneously.

Does the RC-500 provide phantom power?

Yes. Switchable 48V phantom power is available for compatible condenser microphones.

Phantom power should only be activated when it is required by the connected microphone.

Can I use a dynamic microphone?

Yes. Standard dynamic microphones can be connected to the XLR microphone input without activating phantom power.

Can both tracks play at the same time?

Yes. Tracks 1 and 2 can play simultaneously to create layered arrangements. They can also be controlled independently for song sections, transitions and changing textures.

Can I adjust the volume of each track separately?

Yes. Dedicated volume faders provide direct control over Tracks 1 and 2.

Does the RC-500 have built-in drums?

Yes. It includes 57 rhythm patterns, each with two variations, and 16 drum kits.

These rhythms can be used for practice, songwriting or as part of a live performance.

Can I turn the rhythms off?

Yes. The rhythm section is optional and can be switched off when you want to create free-time loops or perform with another musician.

Can I connect the RC-500 to a PA system?

Yes. The outputs can be connected to a mixer, powered speaker, audio interface or PA system.

A full-range system is particularly useful when your loops include vocals, drums, keyboards or several different instruments.

Can I use the RC-500 with a guitar amplifier?

Yes. The RC-500 can be connected to a guitar amplifier like a conventional effects pedal.

Placing it towards the end of your signal chain usually allows it to capture the sounds produced by your other pedals.

Can I connect an external footswitch?

Yes. Compatible BOSS external footswitches can be connected to expand the available hands-free control.

Up to two switch functions can be accessed through the TRS control connection when using a compatible dual footswitch.

Can an expression pedal be used?

Yes. A compatible expression pedal can be connected and assigned to controllable parameters.

Can the onboard footswitch functions be changed?

Yes. The footswitches are assignable, allowing the operating layout to be adapted to your preferred looping workflow.

Can the RC-500 synchronise with a drum machine?

Yes. MIDI connectivity allows synchronisation with compatible drum machines, sequencers and other MIDI equipment.

Suitable TRS MIDI cables or adaptors are required.

Can I save my loops?

Yes. The RC-500 includes 99 phrase memories for storing recorded audio and related performance settings.

Can loops be transferred to a computer?

Yes. Loop audio can be backed up over USB, and compatible WAV files can be loaded into the RC-500 using BOSS Tone Studio.

Does the RC-500 run on batteries?

Yes. It operates from four AA alkaline batteries.

A compatible BOSS PSA-series AC adaptor can also be used and is available separately.

Is the RC-500 suitable for beginners?

The RC-500 is accessible enough for musicians learning to loop, although its two tracks and customisable controls provide more depth than a basic single-switch pedal.

New users can begin with straightforward recording and overdubbing before exploring independent tracks, rhythms, effects and MIDI control.

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When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians
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Contact Fair Deal Music or visit our Birmingham showroom to discuss your equipment and explore your next upgrade.