Maxon CS-550 Stereo Chorus

Recently, we had the privilege of reviewing the gorgeous PAC-9 Pure Analog Chorus from Maxon, and were super-impressed. Today, we dive right back into the Maxon modulation pool, this time with big brother CS-550 Stereo Chorus, a spin on a classic big box from the 1970’s. Grab your headphones and get ready for a ride, this pedal is gonna blow your mind…

With a circuit based around the Panasonic MN3207 Bucket Brigade IC, the CS-550’s “straight-outta ’79” chorus effect is bold and resonant without sounding harsh. Unlike the sterile chorus sounds of the 80’s, the 550 has an edgy, almost grainy quality that keeps your tone articulate and prevents wash-out. The CS-550’s custom-tuned oscillator circuit provides enough speed for authentic rotary speaker simulation, and just the right amount of modulation for a lush vibrato that won’t leave you feeling queasy.

With its Delay Time control the CS-550 can venture into Flanger territory, adding a resonant, hollow quality to the effect that’s great for solos. A rear-mounted Blend control allows you to adjust the level of the Chorus effect to set it back in the mix against your dry signal. A unique feature of the CS-550 is its ability to create spatial effects that add dimension to your guitar tone without the traditional Chorus wobble. With Speed and Depth set low and the Delay Time at max, the 550 thickens your sound much in the manner of a double-tracked guitar, adding girth and life without excessive modulation.

The CS-550 features stereo outputs for mono, stereo, or inverted mono signal routing. It’s about as close as you’re going to get to the legendary Boss CE-1 chorus/vibrato sound, while also offering many additional sounds unattainable with that vintage gem. Seriously one of the best chorus pedals we’ve ever played, this baby blue beauty is one you’re not gonna want to sleep on. Check out our demo video below, head to the Maxon website for more info and grab one for yourself from our friends at Osiamo Music Gear – cheers!!

Affiliate Links:
Sweetwater – https://sweetwater.sjv.io/MX05KP
StewMac – https://stewmac.sjv.io/P0X7BQ
Perfect Circuit – https://bit.ly/3pHpS6P
Amazon – https://amzn.to/3FN04Mq