Boss · PH-1R

Boss PH-1R Phaser

The PH-1R is the second take on one of Boss's first three compact pedals. The original PH-1 launched the compact line in 1977 with the OD-1 and SP-1. Boss describes it as a genuine four-stage phaser with a FET-based circuit, warm and understated, with a slow swirl at low speeds and a jet sound when you push the depth. The PH-1 had two knobs, Rate and Depth. The PH-1R kept the four-stage design and added a third knob, Res, which feeds some of the effect back into itself for a stronger sweep. That one letter matters when you shop. Count the knobs. Two means a PH-1, three means a PH-1R. Check the bottom plate too. Like other older Boss pedals, it may want the ACA adapter rather than a modern 9V supply. Pick the PH-1R if you want a stronger, more pronounced sweep. Pick the PH-1 if you want the gentler original.