The mods here turn this into more of lead style gain machine really. I like the Gain up quite high - and then I can punch in an even more saturated Boost on top of that! If you don’t set the two gain circuits diligently it can almost sound as if there is no change when you apply the boost - it typically works best with the 2 Boost controls maxed - and then your default level is set to your preferred starting settings. The Boss SD-1 Overdrive also contributes to the guitar’s sound and gives a crunch sound with open chords. ATTENTION*Since the pedals that use THT components could be modified and the new BOSS pedals are being made using SMD components, I buy USED pedals that use THT components. So what you get from me is a USED pedal that has been modified. Numerous users are always on the lookout for a detailed Boss OD-3 review and are often seen with searches around the topic Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive vs. OD-3 Overdrive. Several guitar overdrives are available in the market. However, all of them do not work for all the models. Different overdrives come with different features and so are compatible with a particular number of guitars.

The key difference between the two is that the Boss SD-1 Overdrive creates asymmetrical clipping as opposed to the symmetrical clipping made by the latter. You may get the largest amount of saturation at the lower and bottom halves’ mid. This is a standard level for the overdrive pedals, so it is nothing new. This level is needed to generate the traditional crunch associated with drives.

Go Backstage

Using the TONE knob you add that extra edge you might need to cut through any mix. Legendary Boss Pedal Build Quality I first had the newest one made in Malaysia which features SMD components and it's pcb only occupies less than a third of the inside of the pedal. That's OK for me, SMD have much tighter tolerances which results in better consistency and reduced values drift, many boutique manufacters have gone this route. Its tough and rugged metal chassis can be relied on so you can be confident when taking this pedal on the road with you. As far as build quality goes, it’s a Boss pedal. The Enclosure & footswitch design is impeccable, the recessed control panel is simple & yet so effective. The knobs are easy to get your fingers around & it runs on the smell of a power supply. I have to say again that I wish Boss would put a better quality battery snap on their compact pedals. I don’t like using batteries because they are expensive, have a finite amount of life & are terrible for the environment when not disposed of properly but if you HAD to use one, that connection needs to be as tough as the rest of the pedal. Being gentle when connecting & disconnecting the battery will however ensure a long life. The OD-3 can be a great source of overdrive on its own, paired with a clean amplifier. You won’t quite get full-on distortion from it, but it gets pretty heavy. If you mostly play clean, but need a bit of drive for a chorus or some lead parts, the OD-3 will do the job. Furthermore, it will clean up very nicely, as you lower the output volume on your guitar, similar to a cranked valve amp.

It sounds like a pretty good option to have in the market, considering all the overdrives that are now available. Moreover, Boss’ parent company Roland makes the overdrive series with the unique voicing in bulk. The OD-3 aims to build upon its predecessors by having better response times, a wider range of tones, and a smoother sound. This analogue effects unit not only has an impressively dynamic range but, thanks to its two-stage overdrive circuit, it delivers a sound that is rich, powerful, and incredibly versatile. It also comes complete with a five-year warranty, which is always nice for your peace of mind. Which Genres Can it Play?

Natural Overdrive with Endless Sustain!

Boss says, the OD-3 had a "bigger, smoother tone than any Overdrive pedal ever had". I say: It's true! Toggle switch in the lower position:Mid-cut sound with a a hint of midrange quality. This setting creates a sound between the middle position and the upper position. There’s so many cool Modded Boss pedals out there - maybe it’s time for a Boss Custom Shop - to roll out these sorts of more specialist pedals. The Boss OD-3 was released in 1997, approximately three years after the OD-3 B was introduced worldwide.