Electric guitars use magnetic pickups to convert string vibrations into an electrical signal, which is then amplified. Unlike acoustic guitars, they rely on amplification for volume and tone shaping, making them highly versatile in genres like rock, blues, jazz, and metal. Electric guitars come in many body styles—solid, semi-hollow, and hollow—and feature different pickup configurations, neck types, and hardware. From smooth clean tones to aggressive distortion, they offer a wide sonic range, making them the backbone of modern guitar music.
Overdrive is a type of guitar effect that simulates the natural distortion that occurs when a tube amplifier is pushed beyond its clean limit. Overdrive pedals achieve this by boosting the input signal of the guitar, causing the amplifier to saturate and produce a warm, saturated, and crunchy sound.
Overdrive pedals are commonly used in various styles of music, including rock, blues, and punk, to add grit, sustain, and harmonic richness to the guitar’s sound. They are versatile tools that can be used to achieve a wide range of tones, from subtle breakup to full-on distortion, depending on the settings and the amplifier being used. Some classic examples of overdrive pedals include the Ibanez Tube Screamer, the Boss OD-1, and the Fulltone OCD, among others
A pedal is a compact device that guitarists use to alter their instrument’s sound by shaping effects such as distortion, delay, reverb, and modulation. Typically housed in a rugged enclosure and controlled by footswitches, pedals are designed to be placed on the floor for hands-free operation during playing. They can be analogue or digital, true bypass or buffered, and come in countless varieties to suit different styles and preferences. Pedals are essential tools for creating signature tones and adding colour and texture to a guitarist’s sound.
A special usually refers to a model or edition that stands out from standard versions due to unique features, limited production, or custom touches. This could include upgraded hardware, exclusive finishes, distinctive woods, or artist signature details. Specials often offer enhanced playability, tone, or aesthetics, making them prized by collectors and players alike. Whether it’s a “Standard,” “Custom,” or “Special Edition,” these guitars bring something extra to the table—whether that’s rarity, style, or performance.
We have new and used Boss musical equipment available on our website for fast direct delivery from sellers across the UK & Europe.
Since 1973, BOSS has pioneered the development of unique and innovative products for musicians of all styles and skill levels. From class-leading effects pedals, multi-effects, and Loop Stations to guitar synthesizers, amplifiers, and more, our trailblazing designs include several world firsts and have forever changed the way people make music.
BOSS has its roots in MEG Electronics, a dedicated guitar effects R&D division founded within Roland Corporation in 1973. The company was recast with the now-famous BOSS name and logo and introduced to the public the following year. Along with products that carry the BOSS brand, the BOSS engineering team has been involved with developing key Roland-branded guitar products since the beginning.
This spirit of innovation continues today as BOSS forges ahead with the creation of original, progressive, and impactful gear. And with plenty more exciting developments on the horizon, we’re looking forward to another half-century of musical evolution.
£124.99
Special edition BOSS overdrive pedal with next-generation sound, feel, and response All-new design provides a superior playing experience thatâ€s unattainable with analog overdrive pedals Powerful real-time processing delivers rich, wide-range sounds with natural compression Bold, high-definition tone thatâ€s also smooth and refined Preserves the u…
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£73.00 £67.40
Since 1981, the SD-1 Super Overdrive has been a go-to gain pedal for generations of players—trusted across genres for its reliable tone and performance. Built on the groundbreaking asymmetrical clipping circuit of the iconic 1977 OD-1—one of the first-ever BOSS compacts—the SD-1 carries forward a true overdrive legacy. The SD-1 delivers rich, smoot…
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£155.45
Special edition overdrive pedal with extended sound dynamics Dense and differentiated sound / low basic noise even at high levels Large variety of sound with natural compression Basic character of the guitar and the pickup remains the same + Keepdrum jack cable
£144.00 £124.00
Fusing classic BOSS octave tones with the latest tracking technologies, the BOSS OC-5 sets a new standard in octave pedal performance Brings together the best of its predecessors; the vintage warm mono tones of the 1982 OC-2 and the range-extending poly mode of the OC-3 – plus so much more The Poly mode enhances your chord playing; with the Range k…
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£22.99
Get tube-like distortion, smooth sustain and super-fat tone Unique balance control to blend between overdriven and dry bass sound for maximum punch Dedicated level, 2-band eq and gain controls for awesome sound shaping Blue status led for effect on/off and battery check Blue status led for effect on/off and battery check
