BOSS NS-1X Noise Suppressor and Gate Pedal

The BOSS NS-1X is a compact noise suppressor and gate pedal for guitar, bass, and other electronic instruments. It is designed to reduce unwanted hiss and background noise that can become noticeable in high-gain pedalboards, amplifiers, and recording setups. Its three operating modes allow players to tailor silence, suppression, or fast gating to the rig and performance style.

Reduction mode is intended for general-purpose noise control while preserving a natural-feeling note decay. Gate mode is geared toward faster response in high-gain applications, including tightly articulated rhythm work and technical playing. Mute mode turns the footswitch into a convenient signal mute for instrument changes, tuning, or breaks.

The pedal uses BOSS Multi-Dimensional Processing technology, with real-time signal analysis intended to separate playing dynamics from unwanted noise. Its Threshold, Decay, and Damp controls provide direct adjustment of when suppression begins, how it engages, and the maximum suppression amount. A multi-LED Reduction indicator shows the current noise suppression status during use.

The NS-1X is built for players who use clean, overdriven, distorted, or high-output signal chains and want quieter operation without adding complicated controls. It supports standard guitars and basses, including extended-range instruments, and can also be used with keyboards and other electronic instruments. Buffered bypass supports integration into pedalboards where consistent signal routing is preferred.

A send/return loop lets the NS-1X monitor the clean instrument signal while processing noise from pedals placed within the loop. This routing is especially useful with overdrives, distortions, and other pedals that introduce noise. The pedal can operate from the included 9V alkaline battery or an optional BOSS PSA-series AC adaptor, and its DC OUT connection can distribute power to other pedals with the appropriate optional cable.

Key Features

• MDP Noise Processing: Real-time processing targets unwanted noise while retaining playing response.
• Three Operating Modes: Choose Reduction, Gate, or Mute operation for different performance needs.
• Fast Gate Response: Gate mode supports precise high-gain and percussive playing styles.
• Adjustable Suppression: Threshold, Decay, and Damp knobs tailor the noise-control behavior.
• Send/Return Loop: Isolates noisy gain pedals for more effective suppression.
• Reduction Status Display: Multi-LED indicator shows active noise reduction in real time.

Design & Installation

The NS-1X uses BOSS’s compact pedal format with a footswitch, a MODE knob, dedicated Threshold, Decay, and Damp controls, and separate CHECK and REDUCTION indicators. Four 1/4-inch phone jacks handle the instrument input, output, send, and return connections. DC IN and DC OUT connections support external power and pedalboard power distribution.

For standard use, connect the instrument to INPUT and connect OUTPUT to the next pedal or amplifier input. For best results with overdrives, distortions, and similar noise-producing effects, connect those pedals between SEND and RETURN while placing the instrument directly into the NS-1X INPUT. A 9V alkaline battery is included; for external power, use an optional BOSS PSA-series adaptor, and use an optional PCS-20A parallel cable when using DC OUT to power another pedal.