Bosseffect·distortion
Boss DS-1 Distortion
The most popular distortion pedal ever made. Bright, aggressive, and cheap. Kurt Cobain's primary drive pedal. Also used by Prince, Steve Vai, and Joe Satriani.
Modeler equivalents
- helix
- Deez One Vintage
- quad_cortex
- Chief DS1
- tonex
- Search ToneNET for 'Boss DS-1' (Tone Model capture)
- fractal
- DS1 Distortion
- kemper
- One DS
- katana
- Distortion (Booster)
Recipes using this gear
Field notes on the Boss DS-1 Distortion
All field notes →DS-1 Modded vs. Stock: Is the Keeley Ultra Mod Worth the Price?
The Boss DS-1 is the most modded pedal in history. The Keeley Ultra Mod is the most discussed mod. Here's what it actually changes, whether it's worth the $80–120 price premium, and who should bother.
Boss DS-1 vs. MXR Distortion+: Two Classic Distortions, One Amp
The DS-1 and the Distortion+ are both cheap, both classic, and both constantly recommended — but they sound completely different. Here's what each one actually does, who should use which, and the settings that make them work.
Boss DS-1 Settings for Every Style: Punk, Grunge, Classic Rock, and Metal
Boss DS-1 settings for punk, grunge, rock, and metal, with dial tables, the Tone sweet spot most players miss, and Keeley/Monte Allums mod tips.