Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer Pedal

Control noise and feedback, smooth out string and pickup response, boost too-low signals or even out too-hot ones -- all with the Boss CS-3 compressor pedal.

The CS3 compresses high-input signals while boosting low-input signals, giving you smooth sustain without degrading the quality of the original sound. A range of effects from gentle compression to squeezed sounds is at your command. Designed for outstanding low-noise performance, the CS3 also provides EQ for precise sonic control.

Check out our overview of the Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer Pedal:


About Boss Pedals
The history of Boss reads like the history of guitar effects. From their legendary CE-1 chorus pedal (the big gray box that started it all) to the world's favorite line of compact pedals, they've been responsible for more guitar innovations than just about anyone else.

Boss's compact pedal line-up began in 1977 with the classic OD-1 Overdrive. Its warm, smooth overdrive sounds and breakthrough Boss pedal features (heavy-duty construction, rubber pads on top and bottom, recessed control knobs, silent switching, a built-in LED, and easy battery replacement) immediately set it apart from other stomp boxes on the market. It established the masterful design for all other Boss effects pedals since.

Throughout the years, Boss has continued to define the cutting edge of guitar effects. Double-layer circuit boards allowed pedals like the DD-5 Digital Delay to deliver studio-quality effects comparable to rackmount units. They recently brought bassists and guitarists the first bass synthesizer in a compact pedal, the SYB-3. On their 20th anniversary they proudly introduced read more the OD-3 Overdrive, a pedal that takes the smooth, dynamic overdriven tones of the legendary OD-1 to a different level. Like all Boss products, it is a level of sound quality and durability that is unrivaled.
read less

- Uses 9-volt battery or PSA-120S adapter (not included).
- Shipping Dimensions (H x W x D): 3 x 4 x 1.06
- Shipping Weight: 6 lbs.
Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
Base Item
Shipping Weight: 1.25 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 6 x 4 x 3 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): CS-3

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 323-890-3700

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. (107 ratings)
Submitted August 8, 2013 by Vanessa P in Sedona, AZ

"The catalyst of my sound"

Overall: 5 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
Let's face facts - your sound is incomplete without compression somewhere in the mix. You could spend anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a several thousand dollars on rack gear and great effects, but if there's no compression in there it's like a new tire with a pin-hole leak in it. Your sound isn't airtight.This Boss pedal gives you that element in a simple, affordable package and brings it all together like the salt in your stew. And it does so amazingly well. I have two other rack compressors, but this pedal gives me a much greater mobility and versatility without compromising my sound.It really shines when you run it into your amp clean, with no other effects engaged. Just your naked guitar, neither too loud nor too soft.Beautiful!
Sound
It has no sound of its own, it just brings out your guitar's tone in a simple, effective manner.
Features
The Sustainer aspect of this pedal performs amazingly well for the price range. At higher settings, though, you may need a noise gate at the end of your effects chain.
Ease of Use
It's a Boss Pedal. Great quality ... easy as pie.
Quality
Absolutely made well. I've had mine for many years and it still holds out like a tank.
Value
It's very much worth its price. You could spend tons more on a boutique item, but you'll hear very little difference.
Manufacturer Support
Never had to use Manufacturer Support.
The Wow Factor
At the front of my effects chain, this thing tames the peaks while delivering smooth, amazing tone.

Musical Background:

I've been playing a long time - don't ask!

Musical Style:

My style ranges from Classical to Blues, with heavy doses of Jazz and Progressive Rock.
15 of 16 people (94%) people found this review helpful. Did you?
Thanks for your opinion!

New

$109.99
FREE -Day Shipping!
Get it  for
Get it by if you order within
Shipping to