The CE-2 doesn’t have a stereo output so the CE-3 was made, perhaps more as a replacement for the CE-1. The CE-3 have adjustments for depth and rate, just like the CE-2, but supports in addition a stereo output. Having two outputs gives you the option of having a chorused signal from Output A and the direct signal at the same time from Output B. These can be panned left and right to simulate the sound of two guitars playing simultaneously.
The placement of the 3 knobs are not typical. This is the only 3-knob pedal that has three knobs in a row. As this caused the LED to become hidden behind the middle knob, it was a design that was soon changed in favor of the V shaped 3 knob control layout.
Version differences
There are minor colour differences between versions of this pedal and from 1988 the CE-3 was shipped with white black knobs with white tops. The CE-3 was the first metallic coloured Boss compact pedal. The green label was introduced 1984 to indicate compliance with FCC rules and production moved to Taiwan, 1988.
Specifications
Controls: Rate, Depth, 2-way Mode Switch
Connectors: Input, Output A, Output B, AC Adaptor
Current Draw: 13 mA (DC 9V)
Weight: 400g/0.88 lbs.
Input Impedance: 1Mohm
Residual Noise Level: -90 dBm (IHF-A)
Recommended Load Impedance: 10kOhm or greater
Recommended AC Adaptor: ACA Series
Labels
Black – Made In Japan
Green – Made In Japan
Green – Made In Taiwan
The CE-3 was sold from October 1982 to February 1992.