The DS-1 was Boss’s first distortion pedal and stood out for its unique character at the time. Unlike fuzz pedals like the Big Muff, or overdrives that emulate tube warmth, the DS-1 delivered a harsher, more aggressive tone with a pronounced mid-scoop and tight low end. It became the sound of guitar players looking for clarity and bite.

The DS-1 features a three-knob layout:

• Tone: Adjusts the brightness/sharpness of the distortion.
  

• Level: Controls the output volume.
  

• Distortion: Ranges from subtle grit to full-on crunch.
  

While some players criticize its “ice-picky” highs or lack of warmth, many embrace those exact traits to cut through a mix or stack it with other pedals and amps to get that warmth. 

Part of the DS-1’s appeal is its affordability and rugged build. Whether you're a beginner or a touring professional, it remains one of the most accessible ways to add classic distortion to your rig. Over the decades, it has seen few design changes, maintaining its core sound and layout.

The Boss DS-1 isn’t just a distortion pedal; it’s a guitar artifact. Its orange casing is instantly recognizable, and its sound has helped shape decades of guitar-driven music. Whether you're reliving the 90's with some grunge grit, want some punk punch, or going for stankface lead-guitar firepower, the DS-1 is a pedal worth plugging in.

DS-1 Distortion Classics – Playlist

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit

Raw, punchy grunge tone—DS-1 + DS-2 combo.

The Smashing Pumpkins – Today

Bright, compressed distortion layered in the intro and chorus.

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Scar Tissue

John Frusciante’s crunchy lead tone in the solos — DS-1 with single coils.

Steve Vai – For the Love of God

Smooth but aggressive high-gain lead tones, often with a modded DS-1.

Joe Satriani – Surfing with the Alien

A high-gain instrumental staple with the DS-1 driving part of the gain stage.

Muse – Plug In Baby

Early Muse tones with a sharp, cutting distortion — DS-1 + fuzz layers.

Sonic Youth – Teen Age Riot

Garage rock chaos — DS-1 contributes to the lo-fi, noisy edge.

Pearl Jam – Alive

Mike McCready’s bluesy, overdriven solo tone occasionally used a DS-1.

The Cure – Just Like Heaven

Crisp, clean chorus tones with lightly distorted rhythm underneath.

The Offspring – Self Esteem

Chunky punk rock rhythm tone — DS-1 featured in many early 90s punk records.