Distortion pedals hold a special place for musicians seeking to transform their sound with unique and powerful tones. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting your musical journey, understanding the role of distortion pedals is essential. These pedals are integral in shaping the sound of countless genres, from the gritty riffs of classic rock to the bone-crushing tones of modern metal. With so many distortion pedals available in the market, each offering distinctive features and tonal possibilities, finding the best distortion pedal for your needs can be a thrilling yet daunting task.
Distortion pedals work by altering the waveform of your guitar signal, introducing harmonic content that results in a more aggressive, saturated sound. This effect can range from subtle overdrive to full-blown heavy distortion, making it a versatile tool for any guitarist. The journey of exploring distortion begins with understanding the various types of pedals, such as the legendary Boss DS-1, known for its classic distortion tones, or the high gain pedals like the MXR Super Badass Distortion, which offer several gain stages for those seeking a more intense sound.
As you delve deeper into the world of distortion, you’ll encounter features like toggle switches, gain knobs, and EQ controls that allow you to fine-tune your guitar’s volume and tone. Whether you’re aiming for the smooth overdrive of a tube amp or the fierce attack of a solid-state amp, there’s a distortion pedal out there that can help you achieve your desired sound. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best distortion pedals of 2024, examining their unique characteristics and how they can enhance your playing experience. Join us as we navigate through the dynamic range of distortion pedals, uncovering the secrets behind their enduring appeal and helping you discover the perfect pedal to elevate your guitar tone.
Table of Contents
MXR M75 Super Badass Distortion
- Highly responsive full spectrum distortion
- Bass, Mid & Treble controls
- 100% Analog
If you’re going to call a pedal Super Badass, it better provide some truly jaw-dropping tones. Thankfully, it works in this case, with enough distortion to suit most rock and metal types, as well as further adaptability thanks to a three-band EQ that can sweep from throaty overdrives to scooped and metallic delights. It’s a superb all-rounder for just about every kind of gain seeker, with amazing touch sensitivity and low noise levels and a classic silver design.
MXR is one of the most well-known brands of distortion pedals, with legends such as Randy Rhoads and Zakk Wylde using their products. They’re still one of the best distortion pedal manufacturers, and the Super Badass Distortion is proof of that. MXR’s M75 Super Badass Distortion is one of the company’s best-sounding distortion pedals. The distortion has a huge range, it’s simple to adjust, and it’s a great deal for the money.
With a 3 band EQ and a very dynamic and touch-sensitive circuit, this high gain distortion pedal can range from warm overdrive to current metal killer distortion. The Super Badass Distortion is our top pick for the best high-gain distortion pedal due to its features, adaptability, sound, and pricing. The knobs are straightforward: the OUTPUT knob regulates volume, while the DISTORTION knob handles the hard lifting. BASS, MID, and TREBLE are the three EQ knobs that let you shape your tone. True Bypass is included, and the pedal is a tough and stylish little thing with a shiny silver finish.
The MXR M75 is a savage pedal with an enormous range, as its name suggests. Its 3-band EQ is the icing on the cake. You’ll appreciate the tone-sculpting choices provided by the M75’s EQ if you want a dirt box that can do it all, or if you constantly switch pickup types and amps. MXR M75 Super Badass Distortion is the Best Distortion Pedal in 2023.
EarthQuaker Devices Acapulco Gold V2 Power Amp Distortion Guitar Effects Pedal
- Modeled after a cranked vintage Model T amplifier to bring the openness,...
- Designed to keep the controls as simple as possible; the footswitch...
- This device can be powered conveniently by a 9V battery or a standard...
The Acapulco Gold EarthQuaker Devices is intriguing. That can be deduced from a single glance. The physical element of this sounding pedal, in addition to some gorgeous artwork, puts its individuality on display from the moment you first lay eyes on it. The pedal consists of a footswitch, a bright white LED indicator, some lovely black and gold artwork, and a single large honking knob. What’s strange is that it all makes sense.
The EarthQuaker Acapulco Gold is a small dirt-delivering device with a single unlabeled volume knob that sounds like a cranked-up Sunn Model T amp, and it delivers on eq controls. The darker and deliciously looser the tone becomes the higher you crank that enormous volume lever. Consider the Melvins; consider the drone/doom bands Earth and Sunn O))) for their gloomy, loose, yet massively heavy, detuned guitar sound.
The Acapulco Gold V2 was designed for guitarists and guitar players looking for a unique distortion pedal. It was intended as a power amp distortion effect to sound like a fully cranked Sun Model T amplifier with a harmonically rich tube tone by EatrhQuaker gadgets. This pedal is one-of-a-kind in terms of sound, appearance, and general feel, and was designed for folks who want to do things differently.
Keeley Electronics Filaments High Gain Distortion Effects Pedal
- Level and Gain set the stage for rich layers of high gain tube-amp...
- Bass and Body give you the punch and authority of a gain monster no matter...
- The Boost and Crunch switches give you two different levels of gain and...
Filaments by Keeley Electronics is billed as a “high-gain” pedal. To be honest, it performs admirably with high gain tones. We just think calling this a high-gain distortion pigeonholes what is a versatile drive that also sounds great at lower gain levels.
This high-gain distortion box falls into the “amp in a box” genre and was designed specifically for current metal. It has controls for Bass, Body, Treble, and Presence, as well as switches for Boost, Bright, and Crunch, giving you a lot of tonal freedom. The Filaments will fix your amp’s troubles if it has a fine clean sound but its high-gain options aren’t to your liking.
Because you have seven EQ shaping options at your disposal, adjusting the tone is quite simple. The controls are properly put out and simple to operate. There are knobs for PRESENCE, BASS, BODY, and treble frequencies, as well as toggle switches for BOOST, BRIGHT (for “more shine”), and CRUNCH adjustments (chugging rhythm versus searing solo tones).
Final thoughts, Filaments are genuine bypass and can draw power from 9 or 18 volts (sounding louder at 18). It does not, however, have the potential to run on a battery, so keep that in mind. Although it creates subtle metal tones well, calling this a high-gain drive is overly restrictive. Its tone shaping possibilities provide it a level of versatility that makes it a tempting choice for any genre. Overall, this is one of the most adaptable current drives, with a spectrum that will please anyone looking for substantial distortion.
Mesa Boogie Throttle Box Distortion Pedal
Mesa Boogie is one of the most well-known and well-respected names in guitar amplification. This high-gain distortion pedal can produce shrieking tones for metal and beyond, as well as organic and warm overdrive and distortion for blues and classic rock. The Throttle Box is a versatile and great-sounding unit in classic Mesa Boogie tradition.
The Mid-cut adjustment on the Throttle Box scoops away the midrange to give you the classic Boogie V amp sound that many guitarists utilise to create powerful guitar tones. Additionally, this unit has a signal boost option of up to 20dB, allowing you to add even more strength anytime you need it.
This pedal was designed with users of high gain distortion in mind. Its selectable low- and high-gain settings, distinct tone and mid-cut controls, and additional signal boost via the master level control, on the other hand, provide you a lot of flexibility for different styles and situations.
This tube screamer is produced in the United States in a tough housing that can withstand the rigours of live performances. It is powered by a single 9V battery or a 9V power supply that can be purchased separately (sold separately). This is an excellent alternative for professional guitarists looking for a long-lasting and adaptable distortion pedal.
Fender Pugilist Distortion Pedal
- Dual gain engines
- Discrete tone controls per channel
- Led backlit knobs
This option is available in the Fender Pugilist, which is a single stompbox with two distinct gain stages, each with its own Gain (duh!) and Tone knobs. With a Series/Blend (read: parallel) switch, a Blend control, a Level control, and a Bass Boost switch, you have a lot of control over your doubled dirt, ranging from subtle grit to a threatening, modern-metal punch. The Pugilist’s quick and simple battery replacement feature makes it a roadie’s greatest buddy, and the LED-backlit knobs are a godsend on dark stages.
The Pugilist’s distortion tones, functionality, and build quality left us in awe of how far Fender has progressed with effect pedals. The Pugilist boasts a well-designed gold anodized aluminium chassis with a magnetically closed 9V battery door that is spring loaded, allowing you to reach the battery without taking your foot off the pedal. The most brilliant design element, though, is that the control knobs are lighted by blue LEDs, giving the pedal an easy to read sapphire glow that can be turned off if you don’t like it. The golden Fender amp-style jewel indicator light, together with all of this attention to detail, results in a stunning minimalist pedal.
The A channel, as expected, is a milder, more rhythmic distortion, whilst the B channel provides greater saturation and sustain for leads. And, of course, combining the two allows you to dial in an infinite amount of gain. Here’s one for thrill-seekers and beginner guitarists searching for a cheap pedal, housed in an attractive brushed gold case. Fender Pugilist Distortion Pedal is the Best Distortion Pedals in 2023.
Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal
- Used as a primary distortion, it excels at arena rock rhythm tones and...
- Nails that sweet spot where a tube amp goes from sparkly clean to warm...
- Use the RAT 2 as a boost for solos and get the extra kick you need
The Pro Co RAT2 has always had a particular place in the hearts of guitarists. The first RAT was released in 1978, and it was an instant hit. Despite the fact that it was one of the first specialised distortion pedals, the RAT2 is still one of the best.
The RAT2’s thick chewy tone sounds very full with lots of bottom end while remaining balanced enough to allow the upper registers sing. It’s basically half fuzz and half distortion, and it’s a really cool mix of the two. Refer to Blur’s amazing Song 2, which was made with a RAT2, to understand exactly what we’re talking about.
Kurt Cobain was increasingly reliant on his Boss DS pedals, but for Nevermind’s hardest tune, Territorial Pissings, the Nirvana vocalist was looking for something more violent. To release some of their career’s highest levels of gain, he used a combination of his Pro Co Rat distortion going right into the Neve desk and his mic’d amp.
A pair of silicon diodes provide the Rat’s signature forceful clipping, resulting in an aggressive yet smooth distortion with a hint of fuzz. Over the years, players as diverse as Thom Yorke, Robert Fripp, and James Hetfield have all used the rodent to great effect.
The Proco Rat 2 was produced in 1988, and while the 1985 Whiteface RAT Reissue uses the original’s LM308 op amp to achieve the holy grail of Rat tones, the Rat 2 comes close on a budget. You might also be interested in our list of the best fuzz pedals.
KHDK Dark Blood Distortion Effects Pedal
- KHDK Dark Blood
The KHDK Dark Blood Distortion Effects Pedal stands out as a formidable choice for guitarists seeking an aggressive and saturated tone reminiscent of high-gain tube amps. Designed in collaboration with Metallica’s Kirk Hammett, this pedal is tailored to deliver the intense and powerful sound that metal enthusiasts crave. With its unique circuitry and dynamic range, the Dark Blood pedal provides a rich, harmonically complex distortion that can cut through any mix with ease.
One of the defining features of the KHDK Dark Blood is its Doom knob, which allows players to fine-tune the pedal’s low-end response, adding depth and weight to the overall tone. This is particularly beneficial for achieving the thick, heavy sound often associated with modern metal. The pedal also includes a Gain knob for adjusting the distortion level, enabling a wide range of tones from subtle overdrive to full-on metal mayhem.
The KHDK Dark Blood is equipped with a built-in noise gate, ensuring that your signal remains clean and free from unwanted noise, even at high gain settings. This feature is invaluable for maintaining clarity and definition during fast, intricate passages or when using complex chord voicings.
In addition to its sonic capabilities, the Dark Blood pedal boasts a rugged and stylish design, making it a reliable choice for both studio sessions and live performances. Its true bypass switching ensures that your guitar’s natural tone remains uncolored when the pedal is disengaged.
Overall, the KHDK Dark Blood Distortion Effects Pedal is a versatile and powerful tool for any guitarist looking to explore the darker, more aggressive side of their sound. Whether you’re playing thrash, doom, or any other genre that demands a heavy, authoritative tone, this pedal delivers the goods with precision and style.
Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal
- Disttion Effects Pedal f Guitar
- Keyboard with Disttion
- Tone Controls
The Boss DS 1 has a simple set-up: volume, tone, and distortion, plus a rubber-topped foot-pedal for on/off switching. When dimmed, the pedal is glad to give a little crunch and some extra oomph, but it maintains the integrity of your guitar tone.
The Boss DS-1 is the granddaddy of distortion pedals, with a 30-year production history and a design that has been used by Kurt Cobain and Steve Vai. On the DS-1, you’ll discover knobs for tone, volume, and distortion. The pedal maintains its tight, compressed, and strong voice no matter where you place it. Even though it’s only in the world of rock, it’s still capable of a little variety. It’s just a matter of changing the tone and distortion knobs to get Nirvana’s grunge powerchords or Steve Vai’s silky licks.
The DS-1 is also a good choice for newcomers who are just getting their feet wet in the world of pedals. It’s not just because it’s inexpensive. In terms of sound, the DS-1 is well-known – almost legendary – for its extreme compression, which masks technique flaws with higher gain, resulting in less detail but ultimately more sound. It could, for better or worse, make you feel a lot better about your tone, especially if you’re just getting started.
There’s a lot of flexibility here. The tone knob on the DS-1 can really alter your highs, which is ideal for pinch harmonics. Reduce the volume to deepen your rhythm tone or fatten single coil pickups. What’s not to appreciate about all this tone for under $50? Just because it’s cheap and predates the Sony Walkman doesn’t mean you should dismiss it.
Walrus Audio Iron Horse LM308 V2
- A return to the classic distortion: thick, punchy, riffy and rowdy
- Updated level control makes it easier to dial in unity gain
- Updated tone control allows more Treble to be dialed in if desired
Walrus Audio Iron Horse LM308 V2 is a formidable contender in the realm of distortion pedals, celebrated for its ability to deliver a wide range of distorted tones with remarkable clarity and power. This pedal is designed for guitarists who crave the raw, unbridled energy of classic distortion with modern versatility.
At the heart of the Iron Horse LM308 V2 is its LM308 chip, which is renowned for producing a smooth and rich distortion that can easily transition from a gritty crunch to a full-bodied roar. This chip is a key component that gives the Iron Horse its distinctive tone, reminiscent of vintage distortion pedals while offering the reliability and performance expected from contemporary gear.
One of the standout features of the Iron Horse LM308 V2 is its comprehensive control layout, which includes Level, Tone, and Distortion knobs. These controls provide precise tone shaping capabilities, allowing you to tailor your sound to fit any musical context. The pedal also features a toggle switch that lets you choose between three different clipping diode configurations, offering a variety of tonal textures from smooth and compressed to open and dynamic.
The Iron Horse LM308 V2 is particularly well-suited for guitarists who play genres ranging from rock and punk to metal and beyond. Its ability to deliver high gain tones with exceptional note definition makes it a favorite among players who demand both power and clarity from their distortion pedal.
In addition to its impressive tonal capabilities, the Iron Horse LM308 V2 is built to withstand the rigors of live performance. Its robust enclosure and high-quality components ensure that it can handle the demands of touring musicians while maintaining consistent performance night after night.
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of grit to your clean amp or unleash a wall of sound for your next solo, the Walrus Audio Iron Horse LM308 V2 offers a versatile and powerful solution. Its combination of vintage-inspired tone, modern features, and solid construction make it a standout choice for any guitarist seeking a reliable and expressive distortion pedal.
JHS Angry Charlie V3
- Convincingly and accurately breathes JCM800-like tones into any rig
- Sports a 3-band tone stack to help nail warm yet searing tones and...
- Go from bluesy Hendrix-like breakup to high-gain Brit tones with a twist of...
The JHS Angry Charlie V3 is a powerhouse in the world of high-gain distortion pedals, offering guitarists a versatile and dynamic tool for achieving a range of distorted tones. This pedal is renowned for its ability to emulate the sound of a cranked British amp, making it a favorite among players who crave that classic rock and hard rock sound.
One of the standout features of the Angry Charlie V3 is its comprehensive control layout, which includes Volume, Drive, Bass, Middle, and Treble knobs. These controls allow for precise tone shaping, giving you the flexibility to dial in anything from a subtle crunch to a full-on aggressive distortion. The three-band EQ is particularly effective, enabling you to sculpt your sound to fit any mix or performance setting.
The Drive knob on the Angry Charlie V3 is where the magic happens. It offers a wide range of gain, from a light overdrive that adds just a touch of grit to your tone, to a searing high-gain distortion that can cut through any band mix. This makes the Angry Charlie V3 an excellent choice for both rhythm and lead playing, providing clarity and definition at all gain levels.
Another impressive aspect of the Angry Charlie V3 is its touch sensitivity and dynamic response. The pedal reacts beautifully to your playing dynamics and the guitar’s volume knob, allowing you to clean up your sound or unleash a torrent of distortion simply by adjusting your picking attack or rolling back the volume knob. This responsiveness makes the pedal feel more like an extension of your instrument rather than just an effect.
The build quality of the Angry Charlie V3 is top-notch, with a robust enclosure that can withstand the rigors of live performance. It also features true bypass switching, ensuring that your guitar tone remains uncolored when the pedal is not in use.
Overall, the JHS Angry Charlie V3 is a versatile and powerful distortion pedal that excels in delivering classic British amp tones with modern flexibility. Whether you’re playing classic rock, hard rock, or even metal, this pedal offers a wide array of tonal possibilities that can enhance your guitar’s voice. Its combination of high-quality construction, intuitive controls, and dynamic response makes it a standout choice for any guitarist seeking the best distortion pedal for their rig.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a distortion pedal?
In contrast to soft clipping found in overdrive pedals, distortion pedals often use strong clipping. Distortion pedals have a harsher edge to their tone as a result of this. In comparison to overdrive pedals, they usually provide more gain, saturation, aggression, and sustain. There are, however, usually exceptions.
Indeed, many guitarists are still split on the distinction between distortion and overdrive pedals. Distortion pedals come in a wide range of styles. The Danelectro Roebuck, for example, has a more natural appearance. The MXR Fullbore distortion, on the other hand, changes the tone of your amp more and sounds harsh. Above all, don’t allow convention dictate which pedals you should or shouldn’t use. Allow your ears to be the final arbiter.