Boss DS-1-B50A LTD 50th Ann. Distortion Pedal

Since 1973, BOSS has pioneered the development of unique and innovative guitar gear for players of all styles. The iconic compact pedal design was unveiled in 1977, and BOSS released the multimillion-selling DS-1 Distortion the following year to wide acclaim. Prized for its edgy attack and smooth sustain, this classic stompbox can be heard on countless hit records.

Marking the celebration of BOSSs 50th anniversary, the limited-edition DS-1-B50A Distortion sports a metallic finish; silver thumb screw; gold-capped knobs; and commemorative 50-year anniversary emblem. Appearing in exclusive livery with a dedicated 4-digit serial number and bespoke packaging, the DS-1-B50A features the same beloved circuitry as the standard production DS-1 Distortion. This collectible version is available in strictly limited numbers of no more than 7,000 units worldwide.
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Genre-Defining Distortion
Before the DS-1, most distortion pedals produced harsh, buzzy tones and muddy sound at high gain settings. In 1978, BOSS engineers changed all that by developing a unique distortion circuit for the DS-1 that produces tight, hard-edged gain with rich harmonics while retaining the unique characteristics of different guitars and playing techniques. Hard rock, metal, and punk styles began to flourish in the 70s and 80s, and the DS-1s tone had a defining influence on these genres. That trend has endured through multiple generations, and players around the world continue to seek out the classic DS-1 sound.

Gain from Mild to Heavy
From its modest three-knob interface, many different sound colors can be coaxed from the DS-1. Its pioneering two-stage circuit incorporates both transistor and op-amp gain stages. This approach is critical to the DS-1s characteristic low-frequency fullness, which is loved by guitarists that play heavy music genres. The distortion knob offers an extremely wide range, from a mild boost for driving amps and pedals to full-throttle gain for monster rock riffs.

Powerful Tone Shaping
Unlike typical tone controls that only cut highs, the DS-1s tone circuit features an innovative design that offers far more range. Turning the knob clockwise increases highs and decreases lows, while going counter-clockwise has the opposite effect. This lets you dial in everything from tight, cutting rhythm sounds to smooth, fat lead voices. The tone control is particularly effective for maintaining low-end definition when using the DS-1 as a booster with vintage-style amps, which often sound muddy when driven with other distortion pedals.

Features

• Classic BOSS Distortion tones for guitar and keyboard
• Reproduces dynamics of playing, from soft to hard
• Distortion, Level and Tone control to tailor overall sound as desired
• BOSS five-year warranty

Specs

• Nominal Input Level: -20 dBu
• Input Impedance: 1 M ohm
• Nominal Output Level: -20 dBu
• Output Impedance: 1 k ohm
• Recommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greater
• Controls: Pedal switch, GAIN knob, TONE knob, LEVEL knob
• Indicator: CHECK indicator (Used for indication of check battery)
• Connectors: INPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type, OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type, DC IN jack
• Power Supply: Carbon-zinc battery (9 V, 6F22) or Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61), AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately)
• Current Draw: 20 mA
• Expected battery life under continuous use: Carbon: Approx. 24.5 hours, Alkaline: Approx. 44 hours, *These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.
• Accessories: Owner’s manual, Leaflet (“USING THE UNIT SAFELY,” “IMPORTANT NOTES,” and “Information”), Carbon-zinc battery (9 V, 6F22)
• Option (sold separately): AC adaptor (PSA series)
• Width: 73 mm, 2-7/8 inches
• Depth: 129 mm, 5-1/8 inches
• Height: 59 mm, 2-3/8 inches
• Weight: 360 g, 13 oz