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- Award-winning pedals to suit all price points – from budget to premium
- Push your creativity to new heights with gentle distortion or ear-splitting sound
- Find the perfect pedal, no matter your playing style, level, and genre
Distortion pedals are a necessary tool in every guitarist’s arsenal, providing an iconic crunch and gritty texture that defines the rock and metal genres. As the most popular of all guitar pedals, the market is flooded with options, making it challenging for guitarists to select the best distortion pedal for their tone.
In this guide for guitarists, we’ll explore the top distortion pedals available on the market, ranging from classic models to innovative new designs that offer unprecedented power and versatility. From affordable entry-level options to premium picks, we’ll help you find the perfect pedal to fit your needs and take your sound to the next level.
Discover the Best Distortion Pedal Deals on the Market
Finding the best distortion pedals to achieve the tone you need can be difficult, especially if you’ve never used one before. Our list contains pedals from famous and trusted brands, including MXR, Walrus Audio, Fender, Boss, and more.
- Fender Pugilist Distortion Pedal
- MXR M75 Super Badass ’75 Distortion
- Walrus Audio Iron Horse V3
- Boss DS-1 Distortion
- JHS 3 Series Distortion
- Earthquaker Devices Acapulco Gold
- Wampler Sovereign Distortion
- ProCo Rat 2
- TC Electronic Eyemaster Metal Distortion
1. Fender Pugilist Distortion Pedal
Do your pickups sound a little thin? Fender has got you covered. Try the bass boost switch to fatten them up and get that full sound you’ve been searching for.
Fender Pugilist Distortion Pedal
There’s not a guitarist alive who hasn’t heard of Fender. Known for its amazing guitars, this brand also makes a wide range of music equipment, helping to deliver that amazing Fender sound, no matter what genre you’re playing.
- Overdrive and distortion combo
- A device made for professionals
- Trusted and loved brand
Features:
- Two gain stages
- Bass boost switch
- LED-backlit knobs
- Easy battery changes
- All-original Fender drive circuit
- Select series operation
- Rugged anodized aluminum enclosure
Review:
This pedal features two gain stages that each come with a tone control so you can shape your sound the way you need to – whether you’re looking for cutting distortion or you want to sneak some grit into your performance. Run the gain stages how you want to – stack them for dimensional tone, or run them in parallel. The choice is yours.
Tailored for live performance, the Fender Pugilist features a rugged anodized aluminum enclosure designed to survive regular use on stage. It also has an innovative battery compartment design which makes swapping batteries out easy and quick, so you never have to pause your set.
Verdict:
What can we say? With its rugged encloser, fast battery changes, two gain stages, and bass boost, the Fender Pugilist Distortion Pedal delivers amazing options to shape your sound.
This Pedal is Perfect For:
If you’re a professional performer who spends most of your time on stage, this is one of the best distortion pedals for you. The rugged enclosure will stand the test of time, even with regular, nightly use, and the LED-backlit knobs make it easy to see your settings even on the darkest of stages.
2. MXR M75 Super Badass ’75 Distortion
This distortion pedal also offers true bypass switching, preserving your tone.
PRODUCT ITEM
With decades of experience under their belt, MXR knows how to make an excellent pedal, and the M75 Super Badass ’75 is no exception.
- Decades of experience
- Simple and reliable
- Bulletproof for stage performance
Features:
- Easy distortion control
- Bass, mid, and treble controls
- True bypass switching
- Bulletproof components
- Robust housing
Review:
This simple delay pedal comes with everything you need to take your performance to the next level. Want more dirt to your tone? No problem. Dialing it in has never been easier, thanks to the distortion control. Shape your sound and tweak your tone with the bass, mid, and treble controls.
But that’s not the thing. The MXR M75 Super Badass ’75 Distortion Pedal has bulletproof components protected in robust housing. So whether you’re busking, rocking out on stage, or carting your pedal from gig to gig, you can rest assured that it will stand the test of time.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for a reliable pedal with great sound, a fantastic price, and robust components and housing, the MXR M75 Super Badass ’75 is an amazing option.
This Pedal is Perfect For:
Stage performers, buskers, and those who need to cart their pedals from gig to gig will appreciate the robust components and housing this model offers. (Not to mention the great sound too!)
3. Walrus Audio Iron Horse V3
This distortion pedal offers three controls for effortless sound-shaping: level, tone, and distortion. Use the distortion knob to get a warm overdrive, thanks to the flexible amount of gain this pedal offers.
PRODUCT ITEM
The Iron Horse V3 is currently in its third generation, which means that this model comes with tons of enhancements and improvements suggested by guitarists. You could even say this is made for musicians by musicians..
- Third generation model
- Excellent sound-shaping capabilities
- Create those hard rock sounds
Features:
- Innovative clipping knob
- Level and tone controls
- Distortion knob
- Flexible gain
- Clipping diodes functionality
- True bypass switch
- 9V power supply
Review:
Unlike previous generations that feature a 3-way switch, the Iron Horse V3 now features a clipping diode knob that gives you even more sonic options. Tweak your tone and explore the wide range of clipping options, from a rounder and smoother character to harder clipping.
The pedal also comes with a soft relay true bypass, preserving that tone even when it’s switched off.
In terms of power supply, this pedal requires a 9V battery which is sold separately.
Verdict:
Now in its third generation, the Walrus Audio Iron Horse V3 comes with a whole host of features requested by users. That feat alone makes it one of the best distortion pedals on the market.
This Pedal is Perfect For:
Walrus Audio recommends this distortion pedal for hard rock guitarists who love chunky rhythms.
4. Boss DS-1 Distortion
Other features include a two-stage circuit (with a transistor and op-amp gain stages) to help create a full, low-frequency sound and a distortion knob for a wide range.
PRODUCT ITEM
Don’t be put off by the low price of this distortion pedal. With a range of features and amazing sound, the Boss DS-1 delivers true professionalism in an affordable package.
- Best budget option
- Innovative design
- BOSS five-year warranty
Features:
- Unique tone control
- Hard-edged gain
- Three-knob interface
- Two-stage circuit
- Distortion knob
Review:
The Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal features a range of classic tones for all genres of music and all types of musicians. Make use of the simple interface – three control knobs will let you explore and experiment with a range of different sounds – without sacrificing the already unique characteristics of the guitar and pickups you’re using.
The innovative design of this pedal supports further range and powerful tone shaping. Turn the knob clockwise to increase highs and turn it counterclockwise to increase lows, maintaining low-end definition and helping you get the soundscape perfect for your playing.
Verdict:
Not only does the Boss DS-1 come with a range of excellent features for a great price, but is also comes with a 5-year warranty, too! So you can use this pedal absolutely risk-free.
This Pedal is Perfect For:
With its affordable price point and a plethora of features, this is one of the best distortion pedals for guitarists on a budget. It also makes a great option if you’re a beginner who doesn’t want to fork too much money out on your first distortion pedal but wants something that sounds great.
5. JHS 3 Series Distortion
Need a more compressed tone? Try out the gain toggle. It will help you create the perfect soundscape.
PRODUCT ITEM
If you’re looking for an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on sound quality, the JHS 3 Series Distortion may be one of the best distortion pedals for you.
- Versatile distortion pedal
- An affordable option for all playing levels
- High-quality components and craftsmanship
Features:
- Three simple controls
- One toggle
- Volume, filter, and distort knobs
- Gain toggle
- 9V DC negative center power supply
Review:
All JHS 3 Series pedals are crafted and constructed in Kansas City, MO, using only the highest quality components to ensure you get ultimate sound quality, whether you’re rocking out on stage or using your pedal in the studio.
Beginners and professionals alike will appreciate the simple interface this pedal offers, with one toggle and three simple controls: volume, filter (otherwise known as tone), and distort. Sculpt the sound the way you want it, and experience the versatility of overdrive, distortion, medium gain crunch, and even fuzz.
Verdict:
This affordable pedal offers high-quality craftsmanship in an affordable package. And if you love this distortion pedal, there’s so much more where that came from – JHS offers a range of effects pedals in their 3 Series. You can kit out your whole pedalboard!
This Pedal is Perfect For:
This is another amazing option for beginners and those on a budget. Sculpting your sound really doesn’t have to cost a lot. Sometimes the simplest of pedals make the biggest difference.
6. Earthquaker Devices Acapulco Gold
The Acapulco Gold is designed to work with your electric guitar – it’s not just an add-on. For example, if your guitar features other controls (such as volume and tone), this will turn your new distortion pedal into a three-channel model.
PRODUCT ITEM
The Acapulco Gold shows us exactly why simplicity is key, especially when it comes to pedals. If all you need is fantastic sound and easy controls, without a million other features slowing you down, this could be one of the best distortion pedals for you.
- Works WITH your guitar
- Modeled after a tube amplifier
- Amazing, cool design
Features:
- Easy-to-use footswitch
- Giant control knob
- True bypass
- Standard 9-volt power supply
Review:
This distortion pedal is loud. No, really. We mean it. Earthquaker Devices even warns against its bone-crunching volume on their website. This pedal works as an amplifier, so when it’s turned all the way up, it offers a roaring, eardrum-bursting sound.
If you lower it a little, you get a raunchy overdrive, and at the lowest settings, you can experiment with a hazy spank. See? Simple enough.
This pedal also uses true bypass and electronic relay-based switching to preserve tone when the pedal is switched off.
However, one of the best things about this distortion pedal is the way it looks. The illustration of a gold and black treasure chest will draw eyes whether you take it, giving this model a premium feel that you just don’t get with other pedals.
Verdict:
The Earthquaker Devices Acapulco Gold is modeled after the sound of a vintage Model T amplifier, providing a roaring sound. However, it’s nowhere near as big as an actual tube amp, and you don’t get all those extra, expensive maintenance costs. It’s a win-win.
This Pedal is Perfect For:
If you’re a professional who likes rocking out on the stage and needs something simple with a lot of power, this is the best distortion pedal for you.
7. Wampler Sovereign Distortion
With high-quality components, the Wampler Sovereign features a sound quality, and a premium feel that outperforms other pedals.
PRODUCT ITEM
Wampler has dubbed their Sovereign model as the “finest in its class.” And with its array of features, complete control, and both vintage and modern sound, you can see why this high-gain distortion pedal is one of the best in its class.
- Vintage and modern sound
- Built to last forever
- 5-year warranty
Features:
- Two gain channel
- A mid contour
- Bright switch and tone control
- Higher-gain settings
- High-grade components
- Relay true bypass
- Top-mounted input and output jacks
- Tweakable EQ Advanced Gain Structure
- Battery connection and 9v power supply
Review:
Get versatile distortion in one small package designed to remain on your pedalboard for the rest of your music career.
This pedal offers you complete control, no matter the soundscape you want to create. Try out the regular control, or opt for the contour control that will give you unlimited power over your EQ. This pedal also features a bright switch. Use the tone controls to dial in any sound you want. Use vintage mode to dial in that old, vintage tone and those hard rock tones. Or do you fancy a more aggressive sound? That’s cool, too – try out the modern mode.
Other features include a true bypass with a soft switch to preserve your signal even when the pedal is switched off, top-mounted input and output jacks, a tweakable EQ Advanced Gain Structure, and a battery connection.
Verdict:
Wampler is so secure about its distortion pedal that they’re throwing in an amazing five-year warranty. That’s right – try out all the features this incredible pedal offers without worrying about whether it’s for you or not.
This Pedal is Perfect For:
If you’re a professional looking for a premium option that offers incredible range, the Wampler Sovereign might just be the best distortion pedal for you.
8. ProCo Rat 2
Get cool, hard-clipping distortion and flexibility with the ProCo Rat 2. As a modern iteration of classic guitar pedals, this model can offer a range of rich harmonic tones for your mix, from high-gain head all the way to fuzz-like grunge, helping you create the perfect soundscape.
PRODUCT ITEM
It’s no secret that Rat offers some of the most coveted pedals in the industry, owning its place on the pedalboards of musicians for decades. And with the amazing features and sound it offers, it’s not hard to see why.
- Coveted distortion pedal
- High quality at an affordable price
- Hard-clipping distortion
Features:
- 3-knob layout – Distortion, filter, and volume
- Rugged on/off footswitch
- Stylish “A” status LED
- Glow-in-the-dark graphics
- Bulletproof metal enclosure
Review:
This pedal is super easy to use, exhibiting a 3-knob layout similar to its vintage counterparts. Experiment with sound to find a range of genres, from blues and jazz to rock and modern metal. Want saturated distortion? The distortion knob will let you dial in all the saturation you need, whereas the filter knob will let you sculpt your sonic soundscape with its flexibility.
Other features include a rugged on/off footswitch durable enough to support life on stage, an “A” status LED, and cool, eye-catching graphics that even glow in the dark.
The enclosure is near bulletproof to handle a tough life on the road.
Verdict:
The ProCo Rat 2 offers great sound, excellent flexibility, and amazing genre versatility, all in one cool package. But why not see for yourself why it’s so coveted?
This Pedal is Perfect For:
This is the best distortion pedal for gigging guitarists on the road. With hard-clipping distortion, a solid enclosure, an LED, and glow-in-the-dark graphics, the ProCo Rat 2 is the perfect gigging companion.
9. TC Electronic Eyemaster Metal Distortion
The sound may be edgy, but the setup is effortless. Top-mounted jacks ensure this pedal will fit quickly and easily into your pedalboard, so you can get started as quickly as possible. This pedal also features a two-knob interface for easy riffing – all you need to do is crank up the volume.
PRODUCT ITEM
If you’re looking for a model to help you achieve that dark menacing tone and leave audiences chilled to the bone, the TC Electronic Eyemaster might be the best distortion pedal for you.
- Designed for metal heads
- Super affordable price
- Get high-gain metal sounds
Features:
- 2-knob interface
- Top-mounted jacks
- All-analog circuitry
- Excellent EQ
- True bypass
- Metal chassis
- 9v battery
Review:
The TC Electronic Eyemaster comes with all the features you need to get your sound dripping with deep and menacing tones. Everything about this pedal has been designed to take after that dark Swedish death metal tone, otherwise known as the “Swedish buzzsaw.”
Want a pedal with more gain? The Eyemaster has got you covered – roll in all the gain you need and cut straight through the mix, crafting that dark and edgy soundscape and death metal tones you’ve been looking for.
Other features include all-analog circuitry, true bypass to ensure your signal stays nice and clean, and a metal chassis that has the durability to stand the test of time (and those long nights rocking out on stage).
This pedal runs on a 9v battery or a PSU-SB DC power supply – you’ll have to purchase this separately.
Verdict:
Get amazing sound, menacing tones, and a super easy interface, all at a budget price. These are just some of the things that make the TC Electronic Eyemaster one of the best distortion pedals available.
This Pedal is Perfect For:
Isn’t it obvious? Metal heads need this distortion pedal in their lives. With bone-crunching sound and huge amounts of gain, you can create that dark and edgy soundscape that audiences will feel deep in their bones.
10. Marshall BluesBreaker Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
Like most distortion pedals, the Marshall BluesBreaker operates on a 9v battery or a 9V DC power supply.
PRODUCT ITEM
The original Marshall BluesBreaker was a staple in many different guitarist’s rigs, offering a warm, smooth tone that other distortion and overdrive pedals simply didn’t provide. For Marshall’s 60th anniversary, the BluesBreaker is back – and it’s better than ever.
- A reissue of the original Marshall BluesBreaker
- Has the same smooth, rich character of a 1962 Bluesbreaker amplifier
- An overdrive and distortion combo
Features
- Direct copy of original
- Unique enclosure design
- Iconic graphics
- Distinctive color scheme
- Gain, tone, and volume knobs
- Standard footswitch
- LED status indicator
- 9V battery or a 9V DC power supply
Review
The Marshall BluesBreaker will deliver that delicious, smooth vintage sound reminiscent of a 1962 Bluesbreaker amplifier. This reissue takes the same features of their old version and has re-made them to suit the modern guitarist.
It features gain, tone, and control knobs that make dialing in your sound easier than ever, allowing you to create subtle distortion or that harmonic, edgy grit.
Other features include an LED status indicator that blinks red, a standard footswitch for easy access, and the original, famous black and blue color scheme and distinctive enclosure that has been spotted on stages for decades.
Verdict
The Marshall BluesBreaker isn’t just an updated version of the original pedal – it’s an exact replica, down to the iconic enclosure design and distinctive color scheme. Why mess with perfection?
This Pedal is Perfect For
If you’re a professional musician who loves that smooth bluesy tone, the Marshall BluesBreaker is one of the best distortion pedals for you. And with decades of satisfied customers under its belt, this pedal won’t let you down.
The Best Distortion Pedals Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Purchasing a Pedal
Distortion pedals are a fundamental tool for any musician wanting to create the perfect guitar tone. But with so many choices available, selecting the right distortion pedal can seem overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive buyer’s guide, complete with essential purchase advice to help you select the best distortion pedal for your performance style and budget.
Distortion Pedal Breakdown: What is a Distortion Pedal?
A distortion pedal is a stompbox guitarists use to create a “distortion effect” in their sound by connecting to the signal chain. Distortion is exactly what it says – it distorts your sound to the extent you need it to by adding gain to the audio signal. This creates compression and sustain, giving your music a gritty texture.
What to Look For in a Distortion Pedal
Distortion pedals differ depending on the brand and price point. You can get super simple distortion pedals for as low as $60. These often come with a volume knob and the ability to add distortion to your sound. The higher the price, the more features your distortion pedal will have, and you’ll be able to create more complex soundscapes and push your creativity to new heights.
There are four types of distortion pedals: the distortion pedal, the overdrive pedal, the fuzz pedal, and the tube screamer. Fuzz is the most aggressive form of distortion, helping you achieve more distorted tones, whereas an overdrive pedal is a much gentler and more subtle option.
Remember, the best distortion pedal for one musician won’t necessarily be the best for you. Not all pedals come with the same features. Some might have lower gain settings, whereas you might prefer high gain tones. Some pedals will have a blend knob or three-band EQ, or others might have just three controls.
Typical Controls
The typical controls found on the best distortion pedals include level (which controls your effect intensity), bass and treble (to help you alter the sound, giving you a lower or high gain), and input and output (so you can decide where to put your pedal in your signal chain).
True Bypass
True bypass is often found on all distortion pedals. This feature ensures your signal remains clean and preserved, even when your pedal is switched off. Some pedals also have the option of a “buffered bypass” in addition to true bypass.
FAQs
Who makes the best distortion pedal?
The question you should be asking is, “who makes the best distortion pedal for me?” There are many amazing brands on the market, all offering their own spin on the typical distortion pedal. Some come with features perfect for the stage (such as rugged casing and LED lighting), whereas others may be better for studio recording. Not to mention, beginners and professionals will need to invest in different types of distortion pedals to suit their sound.
Where does my distortion pedal go in the chain?
When setting up your chain, it’s important to know where to place your pedal. Distortion pedals should be placed near the beginning of the signal path to avoid amplifying any noise from pedals placed before it. This includes overdrive/distortion effects, compressors, and wah pedals. Placing these pedals later in the chain can create unmanageable noise levels that will compromise the quality of your sound. By placing your pedal early on, you can ensure a clean and consistent tone.
Which distortion pedal is best for metal?
Although many distortion pedals are great for metal, we recommend the TC Electronic Eyemaster Metal Distortion. With its all-analog circuitry, bone-crunching sound, and mega amounts of gain, it’ll help you get that thunderous tone you need.
You can also try out the Boss Metal Zone. Boss is a trusted brand that will never let you down when it comes to creating your own distinctive sound.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right distortion pedal can make all the difference in achieving the desired sound for your playing style. With the endless options available, it can seem overwhelming, but understanding the differences between the types of pedals can help narrow down your choices.
Whether you prefer a subtle overdrive or a heavy metal crunch, experimenting with different pedal combinations can lead to a unique and personalized sound that sets you apart as a guitarist.