Boss TU-3SFrom real comments

Verdict distilled from 7 mentions across 4 aspects in comments under product review videos.

Positive sentiment29%
PROS 29%
CONS 71%

Rank based on 7 mentions across 4 aspects

View the verdict as

Buy this if...

  • You already run a volume pedal in your signal chain and want to free up pedalboard space
  • You use a true bypass looper setup where a simpler always-on tuner fits better
  • You don't rely on the tuner itself to mute your signal for silent on-stage tuning

What users love

Skip this if...

  • You need the tuner's own mute function to silently tune on stage
  • You dislike having to add a separate volume pedal just to cut signal for tuning
  • You want the power plug positioned on the side for easier cable routing

What users complain about

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Based on user comments

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You are here
31
Boss TU-3S
Fits true bypass looper setupsSaves pedalboard spaceNo built-in mute for silent tuningPower plug placement
Boss TU-3S
Fits true bypass looper setups
Saves pedalboard space
No built-in mute for silent tuning
Power plug placement

Who wins on what

Ranked by what users actually praise

Overall Impression

The TU-3S drops the mute function to save board space. Commenters note that unlike the TU-2 and TU-3, this tuner removes the built-in signal mute, relying instead on a separate volume pedal already in the chain. Supporters call this a smart way to reclaim pedalboard real estate for players who already carry a volume pedal, framing it as a streamlined, always-on tuner rather than a full-featured stage unit with its own bypass switching.

Losing the mute function sparked real disagreement among viewers. Multiple commenters pushed back hard, calling the pedal pointless since you can't silently tune on stage without a separate mute source, and pointing out the standard TU-3 already offers bypass plus mute in one unit. Others countered that experienced players should be able to identify tuning by ear, and that dedicated volume pedals are standard on any serious board anyway.

Buyers still have basic questions about specs and accessories. Some potential buyers asked practical questions the demo videos didn't fully answer, such as whether a power supply ships with the unit and whether it includes a strobe tuning mode like higher-end tuners. One commenter also wished the power plug sat on the side of the pedal rather than its current position, a small ergonomic gripe for tight pedalboard layouts.

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