Since its release in 1981, the workhorse SD-1 Super Overdrive has been the go-to gain pedal for generations of guitarists across all musical genres. Based on the revolutionary asymmetrical clipping circuit of the OD-1 Overdrive—one of the three original BOSS compact pedals from 1977—the SD-1 delivers rich, smooth, and highly musical overdrive tones that continue to inspire players everywhere.
Standard Features
Iconic BOSS overdrive sound
Unique asymmetrical clipping circuit produces tube-like overdrive characteristics
Mild to moderate drive tones with focused mids and tight lows
Ideal for use with clean and slightly overdriven amps
Works great for adding definition and tightness to high-gain amp sounds
Stacks well with boost, overdrive, and distortion pedals
BOSS five-year warranty
The Clipping Circuit That Defined Overdrive
In 1977, BOSS created an entirely new category of stompbox with the OD-1, giving guitarists natural overdrive in a pedal for the first time. Producing a signal rich in even-order harmonics, its unique asymmetrical clipping circuit replicated the pleasing sound and feel of an overdriven tube amp, but at controllable volume levels. Four years later, this groundbreaking design evolved into the more versatile SD-1, featuring an active tone control for shaping the high-end response and subtle refinements for more body in the low frequencies.
Perfect Overdrive
The SD-1 allows players from beginners to pros to instantly achieve inspiring sounds thanks to its natural behavior and the subtle mid-boost built into its design. It gives your sound a push right where it matters, ensuring your guitar sits perfectly in the mix with warmth, clarity, and rich presence. Low drive settings are perfect for rhythm parts, while high settings are ideal for fat, singing leads. The SD-1 is also highly sensitive to input gain, allowing you to dial in different shades of overdrive simply by adjusting your guitar volume.
The Essential Pedal for Every Guitarist
With its organic character and responsive drive and tone controls, the SD-1 provides the perfect sound for nearly any style of music. Hit the pedal with your favorite clean or slightly overdriven amp to achieve a mild to moderate overdrive that is perfect for everything from classic rock and gritty blues to pop, country, jazz, and beyond. The SD-1 also shines as a booster for high-gain amps and other drive pedals, providing mid-range focus, tight lows, and smooth highs that are perfectly suited for heavier sounds and lead playing.