The Overdrive Preamp 250 – 50th Anniversary Edition celebrates the launch of the original model in 1974. Considered one of the most influential overdrive pedals, the original 250 helped shape the sound of rock and metal in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Handmade in the United States, this 50th Anniversary Edition retains the authentic design of the original model while adding two additional modes for greater sonic versatility.
The Overdrive Preamp 250 – 50th Anniversary Edition actually combines three overdrive pedals into one. The “Silicon” mode offers a faithful reproduction of the bite and grit of the original 250, thanks to the use of a genuine LM741 operational amplifier. The “Ge/ASYM” mode incorporates a germanium diode for asymmetrical saturation (generating even-order harmonics), giving the pedal a unique sonic character and exceptional responsiveness to playing. Finally, the “Lift” mode completely removes diode clipping from the signal path, allowing the pedal to be used as a “clean boost” or preamp.
Featuring a 50th Anniversary commemorative badge, custom artwork, a color-matched enclosure LED, and a “50th Anniversary” footswitch cap, this pedal is ideal for both musicians and collectors.