Boss ME-80 VS GT-1 (Comparison)
Our pick: The Boss GT-1
It's hard to say that one of these pedals is "better" than the other, because the biggest difference is how the control scheme is setup which is a matter of preference. But we like the GT-1 a little better because it's newer, with a smoother design and less congested interface.
The Boss ME-80 and the newer GT-1 are two of Boss's most popular multi-effects pedals.
In this article, we're comparing the two units side by side to see where they differ, and to give you an idea of which one might be better for your particular situation.
Both provide a wide range of effects and amp modeling, allowing you to consolidate your rig into one device, as opposed to multiple stompboxes and pedals.
The GT-1 has a larger library of effects, though the control scheme is a lot different, which might play into which unit you prefer.
Both devices also have COSM amp models built in, while supporting a direct USB connection for easy recording.
Use the comparison tool below to see a quick list of specs for each unit.
Boss ME-80 VS GT-1 Comparison Tool
Gear | Title | Rated | Browse |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Boss ME-80 | n/a | |
| Boss GT-1 | n/a |
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What's the biggest difference between the Boss ME-80 and Boss GT-1?
Since the Boss ME-80 has been around for awhile, it feels a little more dated than the GT-1, though it does provide a more analog form of control with individual knobs and pedals for each effect category.
The GT-1 is a bit more digitized with a banking system and just a few methods of control.
Boss ME-80 Details
The ME-80 uses a system of knobs and pedals to provide a more analog form of control.
What sets the Boss ME-80 apart from the GT-1 isn't really its sound quality or the available effects, though the ME-80 does have a smaller bank of effects (59 compared to 108 in the GT-1). Rather it's the way control is setup in the ME-80 that makes the biggest difference.
Instead of relying on an LCD panel or digitized control, the ME-80 has physical knobs for each category.
Each effects category also has its own pedal (eight total, plus the expression pedal).
This makes the ME-80 a larger and more visually confusing board. But, in the end, many people prefer to have physical knobs for their effects. If that's you, the ME-80 is probably a better option for that fact alone.
Boss GT-1 Details
The Boss GT-1 has a more digitized front-end and simpler control scheme.
The GT-1 is a more updated and modernized multi-effects pedal, with digital control and a far simpler interface.
It has more effects than the ME-80 and a banking system that allows you to cycle through presets, which does away with the eight pedals for effects categories in the ME-80.
In some sense, it's easier to use, but that really depends on how you feel about how you want to control a multi-effects device. The GT-1 doesn't give you categories or individual knobs, which sort of dictates that you rely on the banking system and that you set up your presets ahead of time.
That's different than the ME-80 in that you can just select effects and get started right away.
Both are good and both have their place, but it's really a question of which control scheme you prefer.
Summary
If you want the expanded control and an experience that feels more like a traditional guitar pedal setup, go with the ME-80.
On the other hand, if you want more effects and a simpler control scheme that's more digitized, the GT-1 is the better option. We'd recommend the GT-1 in most cases because it's newer, cheaper, and provides more sounds than the ME-80, which - again - feels a little dated.
But, it's going to come down to how you feel about the control scheme.
That's the biggest difference between the two.
If you have questions about the Boss ME-80 or the Boss GT-1, feel free to drop them in the comments section below, and we'll do our best to help out.
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Written by GC Editorial on Pedals and Comparisons
Written by GC Editorial on Pedals and Comparisons
Which one sounds better. Thanks.
I’d say the GT-1.
Ah ok. Thanks for the reply!
I like em both! I own both. I personally prefer the ME-80. I have the GT-1 as a backup. It’s all Subjective I guess. I’m 55 years old and have been around the block, 😂 What I think sounds better, the next guy may not. I currently play in an Ozzy Tribute Band and a Blues Band. My ME-80 is my Go-To. I did program the Ozzy Band presets into the GT-1 in case of Emergency and I have to go directly to the Board instead of my Amp. My friends have Helix, Headrush, Fractal, etc….I can’t justify the Money for those…..Hell, I wouldn’t use half of what they do😂😂 These BOSS units are killer. I like em both, but if I had to choose one, it would be the ME-80
Fantastic, thanks for the reply.