BOSS AD-10 Acoustic Preamp/DI Pedal

The BOSS AD-10 is a dual-channel acoustic preamp and DI pedal for acoustic-electric guitar players who need a controlled, natural sound on stage or in recording setups. It addresses the tonal limitations of many pickup systems by providing detailed shaping tools before the signal reaches a PA, acoustic amplifier, or recording interface. Its two inputs can accommodate two guitars or two pickup sources from one instrument.

At the center of the AD-10 is BOSS Acoustic Resonance processing, which is designed to restore body and string resonance that can be reduced by pickup-based amplification. This helps players refine a direct acoustic-guitar signal without relying solely on external microphones. Three Acoustic Resonance types are available to suit different instruments and pickup configurations.

Each channel includes independent four-band EQ, a variable low-cut filter, adjustable input sensitivity, and phase control. A two-type compressor using BOSS MDP technology manages dynamics with a transparent approach. Anti-feedback processing includes feedback reduction plus two notch filters for controlling troublesome stage frequencies.

The AD-10 also combines practical performance effects in one pedal. It includes three ambience types, three chorus types, and three delay types, along with an adjustable boost function and 10 memory locations for recalling sound setups. An 80-second phrase looper and built-in tuner add useful tools for practice, performance, and sound checks.

For system integration, the pedal provides XLR outputs for a PA or mixer, 1/4-inch line/phone outputs for an amplifier or monitoring, and a send/return effects loop for external processors. Its USB Type-B computer connection supports two-input/two-output USB audio operation for recording and playback. The AD-10 can run from the included AC adapter or six AA alkaline batteries for portable use.

Key Features

• Dual-Channel Preamp/DI: Connect two instruments or blend two pickup sources.
• Acoustic Resonance: Restores body and string resonance from pickup signals.
• Four-Band EQ: Shapes each channel for different guitars and venues.
• Anti-Feedback Tools: Feedback reduction and dual notch filters aid stage control.
• Integrated Effects: Includes ambience, chorus, delay, boost, tuner, and looper.
• Flexible Outputs: Connects directly to PA systems, amps, headphones, and computers.

Design & Installation

The AD-10 uses a compact pedal format with a hands-on control layout and soft-touch footswitches intended for quiet acoustic-performance environments. BOSS specifies a portable 217 mm wide by 161 mm deep chassis weighing 1.3 kg with batteries installed. The manufacturer does not specify the enclosure material, but the unit is designed as a floor-based acoustic performance processor.

Connect an acoustic-electric guitar or pickup source to GUITAR IN 1 and/or 2, then route the output to a PA through the XLR outputs or to an acoustic amp or monitoring setup through the 1/4-inch outputs. Use the send and return jacks to place compatible external effects in the signal path, or connect an optional expression pedal or supported footswitch for additional control. For computer recording and playback, connect the USB COMPUTER port to a compatible computer and use the AD-10 as a two-input/two-output USB audio interface.