Boss – CS-3 Compression Sustainer

$139.99

-

Countless guitarists trust the CS-3 Compression Sustainer for its smooth sound and outstanding versatility. From subtle dynamics control to rich, clean sustain, this blue BOSS classic provides exceptional balance and articulation, whether playing rhythm or lead. Level, Tone, Attack, and Sustain knobs offer precise, intuitive operation and the ability to shape your sound for any musical style. In continuous production since 1986, the CS-3 is a go-to staple for players seeking natural-sounding compression.

Availability
Brand

In stock

SKU: BOS-CS3 Category: Tag:
Description

Classic Compression, Smooth Sustain

Countless guitarists trust the CS-3 Compression Sustainer for its smooth sound and outstanding versatility. From subtle dynamics control to rich, clean sustain, this blue BOSS classic provides exceptional balance and articulation, whether playing rhythm or lead. Level, Tone, Attack, and Sustain knobs offer precise, intuitive operation and the ability to shape your sound for any musical style. In continuous production since 1986, the CS-3 is a go-to staple for players seeking natural-sounding compression.

  • Classic analog compressor pedal favored by guitarists for decades
  • Provides natural compression and rich sustain without adding distortion
  • Attack and Sustain knobs shape dynamics with clarity and smoothness
  • Tone knob for adjusting the high-frequency response
  • High-performance VCA circuit delivers stable, balanced sound
  • Low-noise design for transparent operation
  • BOSS five-year warranty

Fluid Operation

Compression evens out volume by reducing loud signals while boosting soft ones, and the CS-3’s Attack knob determines how quickly the circuit reacts. Turning it clockwise preserves string attack for a snappier, more percussive sound, while counterclockwise settings provide progressive control over signal spikes. Twisting the Sustain knob increases the amount of compression, allowing you to tighten the sound and produce natural sustain without distortion.

Precision Dynamics Control

The CS-3 features a high-performance VCA circuit that delivers stable, consistent compression with very low noise. Renowned for its distinctive character and well-balanced response, the pedal maintains clarity across all playing styles. It excels at everything from hot country licks and punchy power chords to singing solos, making it an essential tone-enhancing tool.

Tonal Versatility

The Tone knob adds another layer of versatility by shaping the EQ of the compressed signal. Higher settings enhance the treble for a sharper, more cutting tone—perfect for chimey arpeggios, funk rhythms, and parts that need to stand out. Rolling it back softens the highs, creating a warm, mellow voice that suits genres like jazz and neo soul. Whether you need some extra bite or a smoother feel, the CS-3 helps you sculpt your sound to match the music you’re playing.

About Boss
Logo Boss

About Boss

Boss is a manufacturer of effects pedals for electric guitar and bass guitar.  It is a division of the Roland Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer that specializes in musical equipment and accessories.

For many years Boss has manufactured a wide range of products related to effects processing for guitars.  It includes "compact" and "twin" effects pedals, multi-effect pedals, electronic tuners and pedal boards.  In more recent times, Boss expanded their product range by including digital studios, rhythm machines, samplers and other electronic music equipment.

They also are now manufacturing solid-state amplifiers and speaker heads such as the Waza and the Katana.  Both feature multi-effects units meant to emulate Boss' classic effects pedals.

Shipping

FREE SHIPPING ON MOST PRODUCTS OVER $100

We offer free shipping on most products of $ 100.00 and over with a dimensional weight under 35 pounds.

For orders over $100 with no weight overload or fuel overload, after checking the best delivery options, we could refund you part of shipping fees.

Free shipping is not valid for remote regions such as Nunavut, Yukon, Northwest Territories and the non-metropolitan regions and all other areas driven by our courier. (Purolator / FedEx / UPS). All items will be shipped uninsured via Purolator or Canada Post. Insurance can be added, please just call us to know the details.  It is also possible to deliver order by bus for Quebec resident. Please contact us to get more information about this option.

In store pick up

  • To pick up your order in store, please write it down in the additional information. Specify the store of your choice. (Laval or Montreal)
  • When your order is ready, we will notify you.
  • You can then come to the selected store to pick up your order by presenting the credit card used for the transaction and a valid Photo ID card showing the billing address that appears on your order.
Specifications

Specifications

Nominal Input Level-20 dBu
Input Impedance1 M ohm
Nominal Output Level-20 dBu
Output Impedance1 k ohm
Recommended Load Impedance10 k ohms or greater
BypassBuffered bypass
ControlsSUSTAIN knob
ATTACK knob
TONE knob
LEVEL knob
Pedal switch
IndicatorCHECK indicator (Serves also as battery check indicator)
ConnectorsINPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
DC IN jack
Power SupplyCarbon-zinc battery (9V, 6F22) or Alkaline battery (9V, 6LR61)
AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately)
Current Draw20 mA
Expected battery life under continuous useCarbon: Approx. 10.5 hours
Alkaline: Approx. 26 hours
*These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.
AccessoriesLeaflet ("USING THE UNIT SAFELY," "IMPORTANT NOTES," and "Information")
Dry battery/9 V type (6F22)
Options (sold separately)AC adaptor: PSA series

Size and Weight

Width73 mm
2-7/8 inches
Depth129 mm
5-1/8 inches
Height59 mm
2-3/8 inches
Weight380 g
14 oz
* 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms
* The specifications are subject to change without notice.