Boss RV-500 Reverb Pedal Review (November 2024)

Description

In this review post we’re going to be discussing the Boss RV-500 Reverb Pedal, including an overview of its unique features.

Product Description

Journey to new dimensions of time and space with the RV-500, the most powerful and versatile reverb processor BOSS has ever produced. This multifaceted creation machine features class-defying 32-bit AD/DA along with 32-bit/96 kHz floating point processing and immense programmability, putting pro-level studio reverb and more at your feet.

Twelve modes and 21 newly developed reverb algorithms deliver a huge range of textures, from complementary ambiance to deep, immersive sonic atmospheres. And thanks to the RV-500’s high-octane DSP, you can access a full-featured digital delay along with every reverb patch, and even run two reverb patches at once! Adding in MIDI I/O, support for external footswitch/expression control, and USB for connection to the free RV-500 Editor/Librarian software, the RV-500 is simply the most advanced reverb pedal available, bar none.

The RV-500 features 32-bit/96 kHz AD/DA, exceeding all industry standards for pedal-based effects. All internal processing is a 32-bit floating point and runs at a 96 kHz sampling rate as well, delivering pristine sonic quality that goes beyond the highest-level digital processors used in top pro studios. If you wish, you can run your analog dry tone straight through so it’s completely untouched with digital processing. You’re also able to select true-bypass or buffered-bypass operations to suit the needs of your setup.

The RV-500 is equipped with a large LCD that clearly shows the patch name, delay time, and other vital performance information. It also makes it easy to view and adjust the unit’s deep editing parameters and advanced control features. With the grab-and-go panel knobs, you have top-level access to essential parameter adjustments like pre-delay, high and low EQ, and effect level. And via USB, you can connect with the free RV-500 Editor/Librarian on your computer for remote editing, patch backup, and more.

RV-500 Modes and Algorithms

Room—Four types: small, medium, large, and ambiance.
Hall—Three different hall sizes.
Plate—Classic studio-style reverberation.
Spring—Choose from one to three springs.
Shimmer—Two voices of pitch-shifted reverb.
Fast Decay—Unique reverb with quick decay for increased clarity.
Early Reflection—Four types with envelope parameters to shape unique sounds.
Non-Linear—Includes gate, reverse, and granular types.
SFX—Three characterful reverb types for special effects: Lo-Fi, Slowverb, and Storm.
Dual—Two independent reverbs that can accept a full-range or frequency-divided input.
SRV—Recreates the Roland SRV-2000, a classic rack reverb from the 1980s.
Space Echo—Recreates the Roland RE-201 Space Echo, one of the most coveted tape echo units ever made.

Product Features

• Graphic LCD and intensive real-time control options
• 297 onboard patch memories and hands-on controls
• Selectable buffered-bypass or true-bypass operation
• MIDI I/O for interfacing with MIDI control devices
• 12 modes with 21 reverb types, all with deep editing parameters
• A/B Simul mode allows you to use two reverb patches at once
• Runs on four AA-size batteries or a PSA-series AC adapter
• USB-MIDI for connecting to the RV-500 Editor/Librarian or a DAW
• Selectable carryover function allows reverb tails to continue with patch change or effect bypass
• Powerful DSP provides independent digital delay with modulation along with each reverb patch
• Studio-level sound with first-in-class 32-bit AD/DA, 32-bit floating-point processing, and 96 kHz sampling rate
• Includes a wide range of reverb types from standard to advanced, plus Roland classics such as the SRV-2000 Reverb and RE-201 Space Echo

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High-quality build
• Extremely reliable
• Positive consumer reviews
• Worth the investment
• Wonderful audio output
• Practical stompbox format
• Battery or PSU operation
• Flexible routing options
• Roland Space Echo included
• Good range of specialty reverbs
• SRV reverb emulations included
• Smooth reverbs with dual reverb mode
• Delay and ducker are always available

Cons

• Quite Expensive
• The PSU is not provided

Boss RV-500 Reverb Pedal Demo

Our Verdict

The RV500 produces smooth, studio-quality reverb and has a wide range of uses in the studio and on stage. Because of its MIDI implementation, it can also work with bigger MIDIcontrolled systems. Whether or not you need one depends on the type of music you play — if you need different reverb types for different songs, as well as the occasional tape delay effect, it will do the job admirably; if you only need a hint of spring or plate now and then, it will do the job but maybe considered overkill.

However, if you work in the EDM, ambient, chill, lounge, or cinematic musical genres, it has a lot to offer. Simply plug in an electric or electroacoustic guitar and you’ll receive a slew of great sounds straight away, all with stereo effects. It also works nicely with synths and electric pianos; I’ve even used a bass guitar to generate some fun effects. So, if you’re looking for a high end reverb pedal with a lot of options, don’t make a decision until you’ve tried the RV500.

Where to Buy

The best place to buy this product has to be Amazon, due to their competitive pricing and fantastic customer service.

BOSS Reverb Processor Guitar Pedal (RV-500)

$399.77

BUY NOW

Amazon.com

as of November 21, 2024 7:39 am

Pricing History

BOSS Reverb Processor Guitar Pedal (RV-500)

BOSS Reverb Processor Guitar Pedal (RV-500)

$399.77

as of November 21, 2024 7:39 am

BUY NOW

Amazon.com

Last updated on November 21, 2024 7:39 am

Buyers Guides This Product Is Featured In

Best Reverb Pedals