The BOSS DS-1 Distortion is a legendary guitar effects pedal, first released in 1978, that has become a staple for guitarists across genres. This iconic pedal provides a hard-edged attack and smooth sustain, ideal for creating classic distortion tones. Its simple three-knob interface offers versatile sound shaping capabilities, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced players. The DS-1 is known for its ability to work well as a booster, and is a great option to pair with other pedals like the Ibanez Tube Screamer.
The DS-1 Distortion is a true icon in the world of guitar effects. Introduced in 1978, BOSS’s first distortion pedal defined a bold new sound, delivering hard-edged attack and smooth sustain that’s been a staple of players for generations. The DS-1 is the top-selling BOSS compact pedal ever, and its original, unchanged design continues to inspire the creation of great music everywhere. The classic DS-1 tone is behind the signature sounds of numerous rock legends, and is ready to fuel your own signature sound today.
Guitarists praise the DS-1 for its simple and versatile controls, solid build quality, and ability to produce a wide range of distortion tones suitable for various genres. Many users consider it a classic and a great starting point for any guitarist. Some users note its effectiveness in conjunction with other distortion pedals and its ability to work well with a variety of amps and pickups. However, some users have found it difficult to dial in a good setting without mods, and have found it to sound spikey or shrill with certain pickups.