Boss SDE-3

Compact Legend

In 1983, our parent company Roland introduced the SDE-3000—a digital delay that became legendary for its beautiful, full sound and distinctive modulation. The coveted SDE sound was based on the combination of a precise digital engine and the nonlinear behavior of the supporting analog circuitry, including magnetic saturation in the anti-alias filter, time-dynamic modulation curves, and a modified triangle LFO waveform. With the SDE-3, you can now experience the authentic vibe of this classic delay in Boss’s compact format for pedalboards and more, enhanced with innovative creative features that suit any music style.

Vintage Sound and Character

The SDE-3 impresses with its warmth and musicality, enriching your sound with stunning delay tones. On the clear control panel, you’ll find the essential knobs from the original, including Delay Time, Feedback, and separate controls for modulation Rate and Depth. Additionally, new controls expand your sonic possibilities even further. Discover retro single delays and classic 80s mod/delay combos. Or experiment with the modulation and high-cut controls to create atmospherically dense sounds perfect for ambient, chill, and lo-fi styles.

Offset Magic

Beyond reproducing the legendary SDE-3000 sound, the SDE-3 features a powerful offset function for extraordinary tones from two simultaneously running delays. With just one knob, you can add a second delay to create a variety of mono and stereo tonal colors.

Doubled Delays—In the center position, the offset knob creates a second delay that is between 1 and 100 ms longer than the first delay. For example, if the first delay is set to 400 ms and the offset to 10 ms, the second delay time will be 410 ms. Combined with the Time, Feedback, and Modulation controls, you can craft complex delay sounds that typical delay pedals can’t achieve.

Timed Dual Delays—In the second knob range, offset creates a shorter second delay based on the first delay’s time value. Using the pedal’s tap tempo function, you set the quarter-note value for the first delay. Then turn the knob to switch between eighth notes and dotted eighth notes for the second delay. This allows you to create diverse rhythmic effects perfectly synced to your music.

Multiple Output Modes

With its versatile output configurations, the SDE-3 covers every stage and studio scenario. Use mono delays for simple stage setups. Play in true stereo with discrete left/right delays or in panning mode for extremely wide sounds that extend across the stereo field. Send a dry and an effect signal as a wet/dry mix to two amps. Or mute the effect signal completely to mix sounds in the studio and use parallel effect rigs.

Modern Workflow

The SDE-3 offers numerous control functions for your performances. Pressing and holding the pedal activates the tap tempo function. Via the TRS MIDI input, you can receive clock signals from DAWs, other pedals, or drum machines. Connect external footswitches for instant access to tap tempo and a hold function for spontaneous looping. Additionally, you can use an expression pedal to control the Level, Feedback, and Time knobs, adjusting the delay mix, creating wild pitch effects, or driving the SDE-3 into self-oscillation.