Boss VE-20 vs Boss VE-5: Overview of expert opinions

In terms of intuitiveness, both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 have user-friendly interfaces. The VE-5 features easy one-touch operation and a backlit LCD display, making it easy to adjust and recall settings. It also comes with mounting bracket clamps to attach it to any size mic stand, ensuring that the controls are easily accessible.

On the other hand, the VE-20 is also considered relatively simple and easy to use. It has a twin-pedal form, allowing for easy control during performances. However, it does not have a lot of onboard controls, and detailed settings can only be accessed through the menu. This means that the VE-20 is more of a rack processor than a stompbox, requiring time to craft patches rather than making real-time adjustments.

Overall, both interfaces are intuitive and user-friendly, but the VE-5 may have a slight advantage with its one-touch operation and physical controls.

Both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 have menus and settings that are relatively easy to navigate. The VE-5 has a more straightforward design with one-touch operation and controls that are easily accessible. The backlit LCD display also helps with visibility and adjustment.

On the other hand, the VE-20 has a menu-driven interface, which means that more detailed settings can only be accessed through the menu. However, the VE-20 does have several knobs and buttons that make it relatively simple to use once you understand how to navigate the menus.

Overall, both devices offer user-friendly navigation, but the VE-5 may be slightly easier to use due to its more intuitive design.

Both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 allow users to access and adjust the various vocal effects quickly. However, the VE-20 may have a slight advantage in terms of speed and ease of use.

The VE-20 comes with 30 in-built presets, allowing users to plug it in and start performing immediately. By turning the control knob, users can quickly scroll through the available sounds and find the one that suits their vocals the best.

Additionally, all six effects blocks on the VE-20 are available at the same time, and users can save and name any combination of effects as one of the 50 user presets. This allows for quick and easy access to preferred sounds without the need for extensive adjustments.

On the other hand, the VE-5 also offers one-touch operation and a Favorite Sound function for immediate access to preferred sounds, but it may not have as many preset options as the VE-20.

Overall, both devices offer quick and efficient access to vocal effects, but the VE-20 may have a slight advantage in terms of speed and versatility.

Both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 offer a similar level of customization and control over vocal effects. They both have adjustable parameters for each effect, allowing you to tailor the sound to your preference. Both devices also offer the ability to save presets, giving you immediate access to your favorite settings.

In terms of effects, both the VE-5 and VE-20 offer a range of options including reverb, delay, and pitch correction. The VE-20 goes a step further by offering additional effects such as distortion and modulation.

Both devices also include a phrase looper, allowing you to add layers and harmonies to your vocal performances. The VE-5's phrase looper adds impact to real-time performances, while the VE-20 offers 38 seconds of mono recording time.

Overall, both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 provide a high level of customization and control over vocal effects. The VE-20 offers a slightly wider range of effects, but both devices offer plenty of options to enhance your vocal performances.

Based on the information provided, it seems that both the Boss VE-5 and the Boss VE-20 are relatively easy to use. However, there are some notable differences in the learning curve for each device.

The Boss VE-5 is described as having easy one-touch operation, making it user-friendly and easy to use. It is designed for live performances and tabletop setups, which suggests that it is intuitive and simple to operate, even for beginners. This implies that the learning curve for the Boss VE-5 is likely to be quite low, as it is designed to be accessible and straightforward.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 also has a relatively simple and easy-to-use interface. It comes with 30 in-built presets, allowing users to start performing immediately. By turning the control knob, users can scroll through the available sounds and explore what suits their vocals the most.

This suggests that the initial learning curve for the Boss VE-20 is also relatively low, as users can easily access and experiment with different presets.

However, the Boss VE-20 does have more detailed settings that can only be accessed through the menu. This may require some time to learn, especially for users who have not used a similar pedal before. While the overall operation of the Boss VE-20 is still considered easy, the additional menu settings may add a slightly steeper learning curve compared to the Boss VE-5.

In summary, both the Boss VE-5 and the Boss VE-20 are generally easy to use, but the Boss VE-20 may have a slightly higher learning curve due to its additional menu settings. However, with some time and practice, users should be able to become familiar with both devices and utilize their features effectively.

Both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 offer a variety of vocal effects, but there are some differences between the two.

In terms of basic effects, both models offer reverb and delay, which can add depth and space to the vocals. The VE-5 also includes double/harmony effects, allowing users to create harmonies or add a doubling effect to their vocals. The VE-20 takes this a step further by offering up to 3-part harmonies, giving users more options for creating rich vocal arrangements.

Both models also include dynamics effects, which can help control the volume and dynamics of the vocals. This can be useful for smoothing out uneven vocal performances or adding more punch to the vocals.

Pitch correction is another feature offered by both models. The VE-5 includes a pitch correct effect, which can help correct any off-key notes in real-time. The VE-20 also includes pitch correction, but it goes a step further by offering a built-in phrase looper. This allows users to record and loop their vocals, creating layered performances or building vocal arrangements on the fly.

In terms of additional effects, the VE-20 offers more options. It includes special effects such as radio, robot, and strobe, which can add unique and creative elements to the vocals. The VE-20 also includes distortion, which can add grit and character to the vocals.

Overall, both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 offer a range of vocal effects, but the VE-20 provides more options and versatility with its additional harmonies, special effects, and built-in phrase looper.

The Boss VE-5 has the ability to save your favorite sounds as presets, but the exact number of available preset spots is not specified. However, it does mention that there are six types of vocal effects that can be saved as presets.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 offers a total of 80 preset spots. This includes 30 factory-assigned presets and 50 spaces for the user to create their own presets. The factory presets are said to be of good quality, but customization options are available for those who want to create their own effects.

In summary, the Boss VE-5 allows users to save their favorite sounds as presets, but the exact number of available preset spots is not specified. The Boss VE-20, on the other hand, offers a total of 80 preset spots, including 30 factory presets and 50 user-customizable presets.

In terms of vocal effects, both the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 offer a variety of options. However, the VE-20 has a wider range of vocal effects compared to the VE-5. The VE-20 includes 3-part harmony, double-tracking, distortion, and modulation effects, which are not available on the VE-5.

Additionally, the VE-20 has special effects like radio, robot, and strobe, which can add unique and creative elements to vocal performances. These special effects are not present on the VE-5.

Furthermore, the VE-20 features real-time pitch correction, which can be useful for correcting pitch inaccuracies during live performances. The VE-5, on the other hand, only has pitch correction as one of its vocal effects, without the real-time functionality.

Another notable difference is the built-in phrase looper on the VE-20, which allows users to record and layer vocal phrases. This feature can be beneficial for creating vocal harmonies or adding additional layers to performances. The VE-5 does not have a built-in phrase looper.

In terms of overall quality, both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 are known for their high-quality vocal effects. However, the VE-20 offers a more extensive range of effects and additional features, making it a more versatile and comprehensive option for vocal processing.

Both the Boss VE-5 and the Boss VE-20 are vocal effects processors that offer a maximum loop length of 38 seconds. This feature allows users to record and play back loops that are up to 38 seconds long. Whether you are a singer, beatboxer, or musician, this capability can greatly enhance your performances by adding layers and textures to your vocals.

With the ability to create and manipulate loops of this length, you can experiment with different vocal arrangements, harmonies, and effects to create unique and dynamic performances. Additionally, the loop function on these processors often includes features such as overdubbing, undo/redo options, and the ability to sync loops with external devices, providing even more creative possibilities.

Overall, the 38-second loop length on both the Boss VE-5 and the Boss VE-20 opens up a world of possibilities for vocalists and performers looking to add depth and complexity to their live performances or recordings.

In terms of loop functionality, the Boss VE-5 and the Boss VE-20 differ. The Boss VE-5 allows users to save loops as presets and provides immediate access to favorite sounds. It has a phrase looper that can hold a loop up to 38-seconds long. The new part recorded sounds dry during recording but adds the programmed effect chain during playback.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 does not have the ability to save and recall loops. Once the loop is stopped, it is lost. However, it does have an in-built looper with 38 seconds of recording time, which can be sufficient for many users. It is important to note that the VE-20 does not offer the ability to store looped phrases into memory slots.

Overall, if the ability to save and recall loops is important to you, the Boss VE-5 would be the better choice. However, if you only need a basic looper without the need for saving and recalling loops, the Boss VE-20 could still be a suitable option.

Both the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 have the ability to create and play loops, but they differ in terms of the number of separate loops that can be created and played simultaneously.

The Boss VE-5 allows you to create and play a single loop at a time. However, you can overdub on that loop to add more layers of vocals. This means that while you can only have one loop playing at a time, you can build upon that loop by adding additional vocal layers.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 also features a single track, overdubbing style looper. This means that you can create and play one loop at a time, just like the VE-5. However, the VE-20 does not have the ability to overdub on the loop. This means that you can only have one loop playing at a time and cannot add additional layers to it.

In terms of loop time, both devices have a maximum loop time of 38 seconds. This means that you can create and play loops that are up to 38 seconds long on both the VE-5 and VE-20.

In summary, the Boss VE-5 allows you to create and play a single loop at a time, with the ability to overdub on that loop. The Boss VE-20 also allows you to create and play a single loop at a time, but does not have the ability to overdub. Both devices have a maximum loop time of 38 seconds.

Both the Boss VE-5 and the Boss VE-20 have built-in Phrase Loopers, allowing users to create loops and layer vocals. However, there are some differences between the two.

The Boss VE-5's Phrase Looper can hold a loop up to 38-seconds long and works like "sound-on-sound" recording. This means that you can add layers of vocals with every repeat of the loop. The VE-5 also allows you to save your loops as presets, making it easy to recall your favorite sounds.

In addition to the looper, the VE-5 also has six types of high-quality vocal effects that can be used in conjunction with the looper.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 also has a built-in Phrase Looper with up to 38 seconds of mono recording time. It is a single track, overdubbing style looper, meaning you can record, loop, stop, start, and sing over it. The VE-20 has an intelligent transient detection system that helps keep things in time.

However, it's important to note that the loop is not stored in non-volatile memory, so once you stop loop playback, the loop is lost forever.

In summary, both the Boss VE-5 and the Boss VE-20 have built-in Phrase Loopers, but the VE-5 offers more flexibility with its "sound-on-sound" recording and preset saving capabilities. The VE-20, on the other hand, has a simpler overdubbing style looper.

In terms of looping capabilities, the Boss VE-20 seems to have more advanced features compared to the Boss VE-5. The VE-20 has a single track looper with a longer recording time of up to 38 seconds. It also has an intelligent transient detection system that helps keep the loops in time.

Additionally, the VE-20 allows for different presets and effects to be used for each overdub, which adds more versatility to the looping process.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-5 does not have the ability to sync loops to an external source like a metronome or drum machine. Its Phrase Looper is primarily designed for real-time vocal performances and does not have the advanced features of the VE-20.

Overall, if syncing loops to an external source is a priority, the Boss VE-20 would be the better choice between the two.

Both the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 have XLR microphone inputs, allowing you to connect a microphone directly to the device. However, the Boss VE-20 also has a combo jack input that accepts either an XLR or 1/4" input. This provides more flexibility in terms of the type of microphone you can use with the VE-20.

In terms of phantom power, the Boss VE-5 provides phantom power for the XLR microphone input, allowing you to use condenser microphones that require phantom power. On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 not only provides phantom power for the XLR input, but it also offers a full +48vdc phantom power, which is the standard phantom power level for professional microphones.

Additionally, both devices have auxiliary inputs. The Boss VE-5 has an aux input that allows you to play backing tracks through the device, while the Boss VE-20 does not specify if it has an aux input for playing backing tracks.

Overall, the main difference in terms of inputs between the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 is that the VE-20 offers more flexibility with its combo jack input and provides a higher level of phantom power for professional microphones.

Both the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 have XLR outputs, allowing them to be connected to a mixing desk or PA system. However, the VE-20 offers more versatility with its balanced XLR outputs, which can be set up as stereo or one mono FX/one dry. This allows for more flexibility in routing and mixing the vocal effects.

Additionally, the VE-20 also has an additional line/phones out on a stereo 1/4" jack. This means that it can be directly connected to headphones or a separate audio device, providing a convenient option for monitoring or recording purposes.

In summary, while both models have XLR outputs, the VE-20 offers more options and flexibility with its balanced XLR outputs and additional line/phones out.

Both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 can be connected to a computer or recording interface. However, there are some differences in terms of connectivity options.

The Boss VE-5 has a mono XLR output, which means it can be connected directly to a recording interface or computer. However, it's important to note that the VE-5 is a mono-only unit, so you'll need to ensure that your recording setup is capable of receiving mono input signals.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 has stereo balanced XLR outputs. This gives you more flexibility in terms of connectivity options. You can set up the VE-20 as stereo or one mono FX/one dry, allowing you to connect it to a PA system or recording interface. Additionally, the VE-20 also has a USB port, which means it can be directly connected to a computer for recording purposes.

In summary, both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 can be connected to a computer or recording interface. However, the VE-20 offers more connectivity options with its stereo balanced XLR outputs and USB port.

Both the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 have the ability to connect to external footswitches or expression pedals. However, the Boss VE-20 offers more flexibility in terms of the number of footswitch inputs and the range of functions that can be controlled.

The Boss VE-20 has two footswitch inputs, while the Boss VE-5 does not specify the number of footswitch inputs it has. This means that the VE-20 can potentially control more functions or have more options for switching between different effects or settings.

Additionally, the Boss VE-20 allows for the connection of an optional expression pedal to control various parameters. This means that users can have even more control over their sound and manipulate different effects or settings in real-time.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-5 does not mention this capability, so it may not have the option to connect an expression pedal. This limits the level of customization and control that users have over their sound.

Overall, the Boss VE-20 provides more options for external control and customization, making it a more versatile and flexible option for musicians who want to have more control over their vocal effects.

The Boss VE-5 does not have specific information available regarding its construction materials.

On the other hand, the Boss VE-20 is constructed with a sturdy metal body. This metal construction adds durability and strength to the VE-20, making it more resistant to wear and tear.

The use of metal also provides a solid and reliable feel to the device, giving users confidence in its longevity and performance.

In terms of durability, both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 seem to be well-built and sturdy. There are no known issues with the durability of either product.

Both have a solid construction, with the VE-5 feeling sturdy and well-built when held in the hand. The VE-20, on the other hand, has a metal chassis and weighs a sturdy 2 pounds, 7 ounces.

Overall, it seems that both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 are reliable and durable products that should withstand regular use and handling.

In terms of durability, both the Boss VE-5 and VE-20 have features that contribute to their longevity.

The VE-5's mounting bracket clamps and portable battery operation make it less prone to accidental drops or mishandling. The mounting bracket clamps securely hold the VE-5 in place, reducing the risk of it falling or being knocked over during use. Additionally, the portable battery operation allows for greater mobility and reduces the reliance on power outlets, minimizing the chances of tripping over cords or damaging the unit.

On the other hand, the VE-20's sturdy metal construction and pedal format make it suitable for live performances and touring. The metal construction provides added protection against impacts and rough handling, ensuring that the unit can withstand the rigors of being transported and used on stage.

The pedal format also adds to its durability, as it is designed to be stepped on repeatedly without breaking or malfunctioning.

Both products are designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular use in a professional setting. Whether it's the VE-5's clamps and portable battery operation or the VE-20's metal construction and pedal format, these features contribute to the overall durability of the units, making them reliable choices for musicians who require equipment that can withstand the demands of their performances.

In terms of coverage for potential durability issues, both the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 come with a 1-year limited warranty. This means that if there are any defects in materials or workmanship within the first year of purchase, the manufacturer will repair or replace the product at no additional cost to the customer.

However, it is important to note that the warranties for both products do not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, modification, or improper use. This means that if the product is damaged due to any of these reasons, the warranty will not apply and the customer will be responsible for any repair or replacement costs.

In terms of warranty coverage, both the Boss VE-5 and Boss VE-20 offer similar protection for potential durability issues. It is always recommended to carefully read and understand the warranty terms and conditions before purchasing any product to ensure that it meets your specific needs and expectations.