Boss RC-300 Loop Station User Manual

* This device contains demo data (Phrase Memory 90–99).
Once you delete these, they cannot be recovered. Please back them up as described in “Backing up to your computer” (p. 37).
* With the factory settings, the RC-300’s power will automatically be switched off 10 hours after you stop playing or operating the unit.
If you want to have the power remain on all the time, change the “Auto O ” setting to “OFF” as described on “Auto O Settings” (p. 33).
The settings you were editing will be lost when the power is turned off . If you want to keep your settings, you must save your settings
before turning the power off .
Main Features
Welcome to the Loop Station!
The RC-300 is a pedal-type recorder that lets you record audio phrases from your guitar or vocal etc., and play them back by operating the pedal.
You can create a wide variety of performances by layering sound while you record and carry out play back in real time.
• You can save a maximum of approximately 3 hours of stereo sound (*total for all phrase memory) and up to 99 phrase memories.
• Three-track recording allows a wide range of performance possibilities.
• You can input audio in stereo.
• In addition to guitar (INST) input, a MIC input and AUX IN jacks are also provided. You can connect a microphone and loop-record your voice, or
record sound from your digital audio player.
• You can easily connect the RC-300 to your computer using a single USB cable. Once connected, you gain a digital audio connection with your
computer and the ability to export/import loop phrases (WAV  les) (p. 36).
• You can apply an e ect that is synchronized with the tempo of tracks while you play it back. You can use the EXP (expression) pedal to control
e ects (p. 28).
• Two RC-300 units can be synchronized after connecting them together using a MIDI cable (p. 39).
Owner’s Manual

Boss RC-300 Loop Station Specifications

General

Loop Tracks	3
Sampling Rate	44.1 kHz
A/D Conversion	24-bit
D/A Conversion	24-bit
Bit Depth	24-bit
Phrase Loop	Yes
Outputs	2 x 1/4" (L, R)
MIDI	In, Out
Power Supply	AC adapter

Summary

Main Features

Panel Descriptions

Top Panel Controls

Describes the main controls on the top surface of the RC-300, including master volume, track faders, and rhythm controls.

Rear Panel Connections

Details the various input and output jacks, MIDI and USB connectors, and the power switch on the rear of the unit.

Overview of the RC-300

RC-300 Organization

Explains the basic structure of the RC-300, including tracks, phrase memories, rhythms, and LOOP FX.

Basic Editing Procedure

Basic Operation

Selecting and Playing Tracks

Covers selecting phrase memories, recording, overdubbing, playback, stopping, and available tracks for performance.

Undo/Redo and Track Clear

Details how to cancel recording or overdubbing, and how to clear individual tracks for editing.

Recording Examples

Demonstrates loop recording techniques for single and multiple tracks using vocal percussion.

Saving a Phrase Memory

Saving Your Work

Explains how to save recorded data, copy tracks between memories, exchange memories, and delete unwanted phrase memories.

Settings for Each Track

Playback Settings

Covers specifying loop or one-shot playback, loop synchronization, tempo synchronization, and measure settings for each track.

Track Recording and Level Adjustments

Details how to adjust the recording level, panning, and loop sync for individual tracks.

Track Output Assignment

Specifies which output jacks are used for the sound of each track, allowing flexible routing.

Phrase Memory Settings

Memory Naming and Volume

Covers assigning custom names to phrase memories and adjusting their overall playback volume.

MIDI and Recording Mode Settings

Configures MIDI synchronization, overdubbing methods, and stereo/mono recording modes for phrase memories.

Tempo and Effect Settings

Adjusts phrase memory tempo, fade-out time, auto recording, single track play, track change modes, and reverb depth.

Controller Assignments

Allows assigning functions to pedals and external controllers for specific phrase memories, enabling custom control.

About Rhythm

Rhythm Setup and Patterns

Explains how to sound rhythms, set tempo, select rhythm patterns, and choose time signatures for rhythmic accompaniment.

Using LOOP FX

LOOP FX Control and Application

Covers turning LOOP FX on/off, controlling effects with the expression pedal, and specifying which sounds the FX apply to.

LOOP FX Categories and Types

Guides users through selecting different categories and specific types of LOOP FX to apply to their tracks.

System Settings

Display and Pedal Operation

Configures LCD contrast, the function of the LOOP FX pedal, and memory extent for easier phrase memory switching.

Knob and Slider Functions

Sets how knobs and sliders behave when changing values, either immediately or based on memory settings.

Recording and Output Settings

Adjusts auto recording sensitivity, REC pedal action, output jack assignments, SUB OUT level, and auto power-off settings.

MIDI and USB Configuration

Manages MIDI communication channels, synchronization, and USB connection modes for computer interaction.

Connecting to Your Computer via USB

USB Connectivity and File Transfer

Details how to install drivers, set USB modes (STORAGE/AUDIO), and exchange WAV files with a computer.

Data Backup and Import

Explains procedures for backing up and recovering phrase memories, importing WAV files, and managing file formats.

Connecting External Devices

MIDI Device and RC-300 Synchronization

Covers MIDI basics, connectors, settings, controlling external devices, and synchronizing two RC-300 units via MIDI.

Restoring Factory Settings

Factory Reset Procedure

Outlines the steps to reset the RC-300's system settings and initialize all phrase memories to their default state.

Adjusting the Expression Pedal

Pedal Calibration

Provides a procedure to recalibrate the expression pedal if it becomes inaccurate or unresponsive.

Troubleshooting

Common Problems and Solutions

Addresses issues related to sound, operation, USB connectivity, and MIDI communication with suggested fixes.

Error Message List

Lists common error messages displayed by the RC-300, their meanings, and recommended actions to resolve them.

Specifications

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

General Safety Warnings and Precautions

Provides essential safety instructions regarding electrical shock, fire prevention, hearing protection, and proper unit handling.

IMPORTANT NOTES

Operational and Maintenance Guidance

Offers crucial notes on power supply, unit placement, cleaning, maintenance, repairs, copyright, and additional user precautions.