Xotic RC Booster V2 Guitar Effect

RC Booster V2 — Transparent Clean Boost with Added Gain Stage

The Xotic RC Booster V2 is a compact stompbox that pushes your amp harder or compensates for signal loss without coloring your guitar's natural voice. Inspired by the Scott Henderson RCB-SH signature model, this version adds a foot-switchable second gain channel for fatter tones. This pedal is widely regarded as an "always-on" unit that enhances harmonic content while preserving the player's core tone.

Two Boost Channels in One Pedal

What separates this pedal from a standard clean boost is the dedicated second gain stage, controlled by a center knob and engaged via footswitch. Running at 18 volts via an optional adapter unlocks more headroom, dynamics, and top-end sparkle. Multi-color LEDs make switch states easy to read on a dark stage.

Signal Path and Boost Range

The signal chain stays clean when the pedal is off, thanks to true bypass switching that removes the circuit from the path. When engaged, the boost delivers up to 20dB+ of clean volume with separate Gain and Volume controls that behave differently — Gain adds subtle grit, while Volume pushes the amp harder.

• Type: Distortion, Boost, Overdrive — three-way tonal utility in one enclosure
• True Bypass: Yes — signal passes untouched when disengaged
• Maximum Boost: 20dB+ clean — enough headroom to push a clean amp into breakup
• Inputs/Outputs: Jack 6.3 mm TS — standard instrument-level connections

Active EQ and Control Layout

The two-band active EQ gives precise ±15dB cuts and boosts on treble and bass, useful for matching different guitars or compensating for low-end thickening from a volume boost.

• Controls: Gain, Treble, Volume, Bass — independent voicing and level shaping
• EQ Range: ±15dB two-band active — wide enough to correct dark or bright guitars
• Second Gain Stage — foot-switchable saturation that adds drive without altering the main boost level

Power Options and Physical Footprint

Power flexibility is a key strength: the pedal runs on a single 9V battery or an external 9V–18V DC adapter, with higher voltage delivering more headroom and dynamic response.

• Battery Powered: Yes (9V 006P) — cable-free operation for short sessions
• Power Consumption: 9VDC/6mA or 18V/6mA — low draw, daisy-chain friendly
• Dimensions: 112 × 60 × 50 mm — compact stompbox footprint
• Weight — only 280 g, light enough for fly rigs and touring boards