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Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal

Distortion Effects Pedal for Guitar, Bass, and Keyboard with Distortion, Level, and Tone Controls
$62.99

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A First-call Distortion Pedal - Since 1978!

Simply put, the BOSS DS-1 distortion pedal is a modern classic. For the better part of 30 years, you've heard this orange box put through its paces on countless top rock recordings - from Kurt Cobain's "Nevermind"-era grunge to the renowned distorted tones of Steve Vai. The DS-1 is affordable, it's incredible sounding, and it's a rock pedalboard staple - the perfect first distortion stompbox and one that may well be your last. Whether you pair it with your guitar's single-coil or humbucking pickups, expect rich, dynamic-laden tone with the BOSS DS-1.

A proven pedalboard staple - for 30 years

Since the DS-1's introduction in 1978, guitarists everywhere have been snatching it up, putting it in their signal chain, and using it to achieve their signature distorted rock tones. It's great for all flavors of rock - everything from experimental to indie to modern to heavier grunge-infused genres. That versatility, combined with its great price, make the DS-1 the perfect pick for a first distortion pedal - it's a solid investment toward proven tone.

Three-control layout for a range of essential distortion tones

The BOSS DS-1 features three knobs that can take it in a number of different tonal directions. There's a tone knob, a level knob, and a distortion knob. By cranking each up or down, you can pull out a range of different tones - from subtle bite to rich crunch to all-out fuzz. The midrange on the DS-1 is scooped, which gives it a distinct tonal flavor, which many players prefer. Want sonic reference? Give Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" a listen - all that crunch came courtesy of the BOSS DS-1.

BOSS guitar pedals: rugged, reliable, more than 10,000,000 sold

More than 10,000,000 BOSS guitar and bass effects pedals have been sold to players worldwide, including such esteemed players as Yngwie Malmsteen, Dave Navarro, John Petrucci, Marty Friedman, Steve Vai, and Joe Satriani. You've also no doubt heard BOSS pedals recorded and onstage beneath the feet of bands of all genres, including Muse, The Killers, and Silversun Pickups. The reason for the success is clear: not only do BOSS effects pedals sound great - but they're also built like tanks and designed with serious use in mind. Each BOSS pedal is housed in a stomp-ready metal box and features a rubberized stomp area and base to help safeguard against slipping. So, whether you're a fresh-out-of-the-gate beginner, an axe-veteran designing your dream pedalboard, or anywhere in between, you can depend on BOSS's proven line of pedals to craft your tone.

BOSS DS-1 Distortion Effects Pedal Features:
  • Tone, Distortion, and Level controls
  • Nominal Input Level: -20 dBu
  • Input Impedance: 470 ohms
  • Nominal Output Level: -20 dBu
  • Output Impedance: 1 k ohms
  • Equivalent Input Noise Level: -122 dBu (IHF-A, Typ.)
  • Connectors: Input Jack, Output Jack, AC Adapter Jack (9V DC)
  • Power Supply: 9V DC, either a Dry Battery 9V type or an AC Adapter
  • Current Draw: 4 mA (9V DC)
  • Accessories: Dry Battery 9V type (6F22/9 V)
  • Optional AC Adapter - Roland PSA-120S
  • 2-7/8" W x 5-1/8" D x 2-3/8" H
  • Weight: 15 oz

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Tech Specs

  • Pedal Type: Distortion
  • Analog/Digital: Analog
  • Inputs: 1 x 1/4"
  • Outputs: 1 x 1/4"
  • Bypass Switching: Buffered
  • EQ: Tone Control
  • Power Source: 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
  • Batteries: 1 x 9V
  • Power Usage: 10mA
  • Height: 2.37"
  • Width: 2.87"
  • Depth: 5.12"
  • Weight: 1 lbs.
  • Manufacturer Part Number: DS-1

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Customer Reviews

Write your review
Rated 5/5

Classic 90s distortion awesome

Dude. Good pedal. Watch video.
Music background: Clubs, musical theater, philharmonic, production, blah blah
Rated 5/5

Excellent Distortion Pedal

This sits functionally in terms of "bite" (as well as literally) between my SD-1 and Metal Zone pedals. Not too expensive, well built and has refreshingly simple controls. It's a classic. Great packaging and service, as always from Sweetwater.
Music background: Guitar Enthusiast
Rated 5/5

Still my go to Distortion

I've had DS-1s for a long time. I sold it twice over when the latest and greatest hyped up pedals came out but after being let down,I bought it back again because they are my favourite. On my gear, they work best with my Marshall amps. On my JVM channel 1 orange crunch mode on edge f break up, is where it comes into its own to give a sound that the other high gain modes can't give. I've tried other distortion pedals including the other big brands and already forked out for 2 boutique ones and they were all a let down and couldn't get me that big hard rock sound I love. Used in the right way and dialled in correctly it's a must have. People who complain about it have got put into the wrong gear, and don't understand it or just don't know how to set it up.
Music background: Gigging guitarist
Rated 5/5

Ds1

Great pedal quick service and fast delivery
Rated 5/5

Boss DS-1

Great pedal! Adjustable to fit every style of playing! Love it!

Hear from a Sales Engineer

What Do Our In-house Gear Experts Think?

Ashton Vaudt

This pedal packs a lot of punch in a small container. Being one of the most affordable distortion pedals on the market, the Boss DS-1 is not only found on my pedalboard, but it's also found on pedalboards of the some of the bigger names in the industry. I can get anything from a light bite to a crunchy growl from this pedal. If there's a workhorse distortion pedal, it's the Boss DS1.
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