BOSS RV-500 Reverb Processor Guitar Pedal

The BOSS RV-500 is a programmable stereo reverb processor designed for guitarists and other instrument players who need detailed ambience control in a pedalboard format. It provides everything from subtle room and hall effects to expansive ambient textures, modeled classics, and specialized sound-design treatments. The pedal is suited to players building repeatable live rigs, recording setups, or stereo effects chains.

Its 12 reverb modes and 21 reverb types provide a broad palette that includes Room, Hall, Plate, Spring, Shimmer, Fast Decay, Early Reflection, Non-Linear, SFX, Dual, SRV, and Space Echo processing. Deep editing parameters let users tailor each patch for the instrument, amplifier, venue, or mix. An independent digital delay is also available within every reverb patch.

The RV-500 uses 32-bit AD/DA conversion, 32-bit floating-point internal processing, and a 96 kHz sampling frequency. This architecture is intended to preserve detailed reverb tails and support complex processing without reducing the pedal to a simple one-knob ambience effect. Dedicated front-panel controls and a backlit graphic LCD provide direct access to core parameters and patch navigation.

For more advanced routing, Dual mode can run two independent reverbs at the same time, while A/B Simul mode can combine two reverb patches in series or parallel. Outputs can be configured for mixed or split A/B operation, making the pedal useful in mono or stereo signal paths. Selectable buffered or true-bypass operation helps users integrate it with different pedalboard and switching preferences.

The RV-500 fits naturally at the end of a guitar effects chain, in an amplifier effects loop, or within a MIDI-controlled performance system. MIDI I/O, USB-MIDI, and a CTL 1,2/EXP connection allow expanded control through external switches, expression pedals, computers, or compatible MIDI devices. It can operate from four AA alkaline batteries or an optional BOSS PSA-S series AC adaptor.

Key Features

• 32-Bit/96 kHz Audio: High-resolution conversion and processing support detailed reverb sound.
• 12 Reverb Modes: Covers conventional, modeled, ambient, and experimental reverb approaches.
• Independent Digital Delay: Adds delay and modulation within every reverb patch.
• Dual And A/B Simul: Runs two reverbs for layered or routed effects.
• 297 Patch Memories: Stores performance-ready sounds across 99 banks.
• MIDI And USB-MIDI: Supports external control, editing, and DAW connectivity.

Design & Installation

The RV-500 uses a compact floor-pedal layout with three footswitches, dedicated parameter knobs, and a 128 x 64-dot backlit graphic LCD. Its design centers on hands-on operation, with direct controls for mode, time/value, pre-delay, effect level, low, and high settings. The manufacturer lists a 170 mm wide by 138 mm deep footprint and a 62 mm height.

Connect the instrument or preceding effects to INPUT A/MONO for mono use, or use INPUT A/MONO and B for stereo operation; OUTPUT A/MONO and B support matching mono or stereo output setups. Place it where reverb is desired in the signal chain, such as after drive effects or in a compatible amplifier effects loop. Use the DC IN jack with a separately sold BOSS PSA-S series adaptor, or install four AA alkaline batteries; optional external footswitches and expression pedals connect through the CTL 1,2/EXP jack.