GT-8
Guitar Effects Processor
GT-8: Guitar Effects Processor
Features

Double your power with BOSS’s new GT-8 floor-based mega processor. Loaded with twin COSM® modeling engines, it brings unprecedented performance and tonal control to the stage and studio. The Dual COSM amp section provides two discrete amp channels; you can layer and manipulate each engine independently to create wildly expressive sounds. Thanks to the Solo Switch function, lead sounds can be immediately activated — perfect for ripping through the mix. BOSS’s mega-popular GT-6 was a smash hit with guitarists, now the GT-8 is destined to become the go-to box for gigging and recording guitarists alike.
- BOSS’s most powerful floor multi-effects processor
- Dual COSM® Preamp with Solo Mode for instant tone boost
- Control amp channels and effects by picking dynamics
- Independent effect loop
- Effects can be in any order
The GT-8 boasts the latest top-quality COSM amp models with complete dual channel configuration. Explore new sonic dimensions by combining two amp models, or by switching between them during performance. Select a high-gain amp such as Metal Stack and set it for deadly distortion. Then add clarity to the raw power by using the Smooth Drive model on the other channel. Prepare to be impressed as you tap into the expressive Dynamic mode, where two channels can be controlled based on picking strength. Transition smoothly from clean to mean by simply picking harder or softer.
Solo Switch
Step into the spotlight with the new Solo Switch feature. Each of the 46 COSM amp models contains a specially programmed variation that’s optimized for soloing. Simply click the Solo switch to activate the lead tone, and off you go — it’s like having a separate solo channel on every COSM amp!
Extreme Effects
Forty-four effects categories are built into the GT-8. Up to 13 effect blocks can be used simultaneously to create complex textures and routings. All of your FX bases are covered — compressors, reverbs, choruses, EQs, COSM-modeled wahs, and much more. There are 200 preset patches built into the GT-8, plus 140 user patches for storing your custom amp/effects creations. As a special bonus, there’s a selection of synth waves onboard, plus sitar and an acoustic processor. From subtle to sizzling, where will you take your tone?
Effects Chain
Another area where the GT-8 stomps the competition is in its powerful effects routing. Internally, the 13 FX blocks can be configured in any order you desire (for example, you can freely assign an equalizer after a distortion effect or before it). And if you’d care to take your tone “outside the box” and incorporate some external effects into the GT-8’s signal path, you can do so with the Ext Loop send and return. Flexibility in routing is the name of the game.
Connectivity
The GT-8 is stocked with enough I/O options to satisfy even the most demanding pro. In addition to its stereo analog outs, it offers a 24-bit coaxial output for ultra-clean digital transfer, an Amp Control jack for switching between two amp channels on an external amp, an external expression/control pedal input, effects send and returns, MIDI in and out, and a headphone output.
Audio & Video
Audio
Dyna Lead/Clean
In this patch, amp models are being switched with picking dynamics.
Double Amp
This patch uses two different amp models at the same time.
Fat Stereo Lead
This is a Dual Left/Right patch that demonstrates the rich, massive tone of the GT-8.
Wave Synth
Here's the GT-8's monophonic synth, which tracks perfectly while conjuring up H. Geiger-type Aliens.
Gut Bust
GT-8 Demo Song featuring Paul Hanson.
Specs
- AD Conversion
- 24 bit + AF method*
- DA Conversion
- 24 bit
- Sampling Frequency
- 44.1 kHz
- Program Memories
- 340: 140 (User) + 200 (Preset)
- Nominal Input Level
- INPUT: -10 dBu
RETURN: -10 dBu - Input Impedance
- INPUT: 1 M ohms
RETURN: 220 k ohms - Nominal Output Level
- OUTPUT: 0 dBu
SEND: -10 dBu - Output Impedance
- OUTPUT: 2 k ohms
SEND: 2 k ohms - Digital Output
- EIAJ CP1201, S/P DIF
- Dynamic Range
- 100 dB or greater (IHF-A)
- Display
- 16 characters, 2 lines (backlit LCD)
2 characters, 7 segment LED - Connectors
- INPUT jack
OUTPUT jacks L (MONO)/R
PHONES jack
SEND jack
RETURN jack
DIGITAL OUT connector (coaxial)
AMP CONTROL jack
SUB EXP PEDAL/SUB CTL PEDAL 1,2 jack
MIDI connectors (IN/OUT)
AC Adaptor jack - Power Supply
- AC 14 V; Supply AC adaptor (BOSS BRC series)
- Current Draw
- 650 mA
- Accessories
- AC Adaptor (BRC series)
Owner’s Manual - Options
- Foot Switch: FS-5U, FS-5L, Dual Foot Switch: FS-6
Expression Pedal: EV-5 (Roland), FV-300L + PCS-33 (Roland)
Foot Switch Cable: PCS-31 (Roland), (1/4 inches Phone Plug (stereo) - 1/4 inches Phone Plug (mono) x 2) - Size and Weight
- Width
- 515 mm
- 20-5/16 inches
- Depth
- 261 mm
- 10-5/16 inches
- Height
- 75 mm
- 3 inches
- Weight
- 4.8 kg
- 10 lbs. 10 oz.
- * 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms * AF method (Adaptive Focus method) This is a proprietary method from Roland that vastly improves the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of the A/D and D/A converters.
- *The specifications are subject to change without notice.
Accessories
-
EV-5/-7
Expression Pedals
Durable pedals for controlling a wide range of effects parameters.
-
FV-500H/-500L
Volume Pedal
Tank-tough diecast pedals designed to meet the needs of the most demanding players.
-
FS-5U/-5L
Foot Switch
Durable metal footswitch available in latching and unlatching types.
-
FS-6
Dual Footswitch
Two switches in one, BOSS’s new FS-6 combines latch- and momentary-type switching into one unit.
Downloads
Brochures & Catalogs
Updates & Drivers
- GT-8 Paul Hanson's Custom Patches
- Clinician Paul Hanson's Custom GT-8 Patches. Please refer to the "readme.pdf" file for the loading procedure.
Support
If you have questions about operating your Roland, BOSS or Cakewalk product, please check our Knowledge Base for answers to the most common questions.
You can also contact our Product Support department by phone or email.
In addition, we have a library of Owner’s Manuals and Support Documents that you can download and reference. If Support Documents are available for this product, they will be listed below.
Product Manuals
Support Documents
- BOSS Product Catalog 2008
- Forging the Future - Innovation for Creative Inspiration
BOSS forges into 2008 with an awe-inspiring lineup of effects, digital studios, and accessories. - Guitar Effects Guidebook Vol. 20
- GT-8 TurboStart
- For quick and easy set up and operation, check out the GT-8 TurboStart!

