Description
Introduced in 1978 as one of the first models in the BOSS compact series, the orange DS-1 redefined the sound of distortion and remains as influential today as ever. Its sharp attack and smooth sustain have made it the best-selling compact effect to date, and its distinctive tone is responsible for the signature sounds of a long list of rock and alternative icons. With the DS-1W, this legendary pedal joins other BOSS classics in the Waza Craft series, merging the look and character of the original with newly revised discrete full-analog circuitry for expanded range and versatility.
Timeless Distortion
The DS-1 immediately made an impact on the guitar world upon its launch, introducing a new high-gain sound with aggressive, well-defined harmonic-rich distortion. For over four decades, major players in the hard rock, metal, grunge and fusion genres have adopted the pedal for their core sounds. The DS-1's classic edge can be heard on countless famous tracks, both as a lead distortion for clean amp rigs and as a boost to drive tube amps into controlled chaos.
Two modes, more tonal range
With its two modes and discrete all-analog circuit design, the DS-1W expands the DS-1 experience for a wider range of styles and applications. Call up Standard mode and play with the tight, sharp sound and singing sustain of the original pedal. Or activate Custom Mode for a bold new sound that takes the DS-1's unmistakable character to another dimension.
Standard mode: classic DS-1 sound
The DS-1W's Standard Mode delivers the authentic sound of the original in every way. Its innovative two-stage gain circuit is an essential element of the fullness and definition that so many guitarists love in the DS-1. The versatile tone control affects low and high frequencies, simultaneously boosting and cutting each end of the frequency spectrum as the knob is turned. This allows you to precisely dial in sound for any application, from sharp rhythms and searing solos to maintaining bass clarity when boosting amps and other drive pedals.
Custom mode: rich, bold and dynamic
Custom mode introduces a unique new distortion voice while retaining the DS-1's singular personality and edge. A thick, centered character provides more fat and cut to make your sound stand out in the mix, and the tone control is tuned to maximize the richness and presence of the mode. The available level has been increased by 6 dB, providing a wider gain boost range for amps and drive pedals. And with greater input sensitivity, you can conjure up all kinds of distortion colors with the dynamics pick and volume control settings on the guitar.
Waza Craft: the art of superior sound
From the beginning, BOSS engineers have been committed to achieving the best guitar tones using every technology needed, from old-school analog circuitry to high-tech DSP. This enthusiastic spirit continues with the Waza Craft series, bringing you exceptional tone and tactile response through carefully selected analog components, refined circuitry and meticulous attention to detail. In Japan, "Waza" is the term for art and technique, and these special edition pedals proudly bear the Waza symbol to represent the pinnacle of BOSS design and craftsmanship.
Features
Special edition Waza Craft pedal for the ultimate BOSS sound experience
Newly revised two-stage gain circuit with discrete analog components
Standard mode delivers the legendary sound of the original DS-1
Custom mode provides fatter distortion tones with focused mids and increased tactile response
Versatile tone knob provides wide-range frequency control with precise adjustments for each mode
Two modes provide added versatility when the pedal is used as a gain amplifier
Premium buffer for a clean, clear tone when contoured
BOSS five-year warranty