With the launch of their latest compact pedal, Boss become the latest company to offer an emulation of a rotary speaker cabinet. Powered by the latest advancements in the company’s technology, the RT-2 Rotary Ensemble promises to accurately recreate the much-loved sound as well as adding a modern twist thanks to multiple operation modes.
Boss say that the RT-2 authentically replicates the complex interactions that take place between the low- and high-frequency drivers in a physical rotary cabinet, including the tonal shifts that occur when the rotor speed is changed. a three-position Mode switch provides access to a classic rotary emulation along with two modern-sounding alternatives, with the rest of the pedals tonal shaping provided by a pair of dual-concentric controls. The first handles the pedal’s output level and provides some valve-inspired distortion, while the second allows users to set separate fast and slow rotor speeds. Some additional functionality is provided by a pair of rear-panel switches, the first of which offers a choice of two transition times when switching between rotor speeds, and the second allows the Drive knob to set the balance between the low- and high-frequency rotors.
The RT-2’s footswitch features multiple modes that allow users to control the rotor speed in various ways during a performance, and it’s possible to gain access to an independent speed control along with a Brake setting by connecting an external expression pedal. Alternatively, an expression pedal can be used to provide continuous control over the Level, Drive, Balance and Speed parameters, with assignable settings for each. The pedal features stereo I/O, and offers a choice of standard left/right stereo or individual wet/dry outputs.
Pricing & Availability
The RT-2 Rotary Ensemble will be available in July 2025, priced at $239.99.
