The two tracks have dedicated volume sliders, too, so it’s easy to get the right mix in terms of volume. We particularly like the new Boss display with colour-coded backlighting, which makes it much easier to use than previous models.

We especially like the option of connecting a microphone to record vocals / beatbox / percussion or acoustic guitar. While the newer switches are undoubtedly more robust and reliable, they’re also not great for those of us who prefer to play in our socks. While the RC-30 had two footswitches and a busy upper section, the RC-500 adds another switch and streamlines the top.It will CERTAINLY adapt to your own workflow (you just have to spend some time with it and set it up right). Nevertheless, the drum tracks on the Boss RC-500 are more than enough to get your creative juices flowing. Some value them as a practice tool, laying down a basic chord progression over which they can work at expanding their lick vocabulary. The unit cannot adjust to slight clock variations and therefore constantly time-stretches the recorded loop, making it sound like it's skipping frames, all jumbled up. What I do to get around this is preload a few track with drum loops via the PC and then I know the exact tempo of that bank when I start the loop.

While Boss may have missed an opportunity to add more useful effects (rather than ones I honestly can’t imagine using other than as a novelty), the RC-500 stands out as a happy medium for those who want to take their looping to the next level. What are the differences between this Loop Station and the RC-5 and how is its performance compared to the slightly cheaper RC-10R? Each rhythm pattern has an A and a B variant and the parts of the drum kit can be switched on and off individually.Additionally, the LCD display is color-coded so you can easily see whether you’re in recording, overdubbing or playback mode. Unlike the smaller RC-5, however, the RC-500 offers a lot more "hidden" setting options that may require you to dig out the manual from time to time. We're supplied with a bright LCD with a multi-colour backlight for viewing loop status and editing parameters.

With 57 preset rhythms and seven inbuilt drumkits, you can jam along to a tight rhythm - perfect for practising and writing music. By rejecting non-essential cookies, Reddit may still use certain cookies to ensure the proper functionality of our platform.Up to 99 different loops can be recorded, managed, and controlled via MIDI, adding up to a total possible recording time of 13 hours. If your product develops a fault within the guarantee period beyond economical repair your product will be replaced "like for like" as determined by Rimmers Music, or monetary compensation will be given to the equivalent current market value of the product at the time (subject to condition at the sole discretion of Rimmers Music). To get the absolute most out of the RC-500, you can connect up to two external footswitches for direct control of many assignable functions, or an expression pedal for continuous adjustments. And for those who still crave for more, you can control the RC-500 via MIDI connection as well as integrate the device into more extensive setups.