Boss BD-2 Blues Driver - Overdrive Pedal

Submitted by Alexander Briones on Feb. 8, 2021..

93

GEARANK

93 out of 100. Incorporating 1500+ ratings and reviews.

Gearank Recommendation

The BD-2 appeared on our recommended list for Overdrive Pedals Under $100 from February 2020 until February 2021 when it was removed due to being out-ranked by other pedals.

Overview

The aim of the Boss BD-2 Blues Driver is to replicate the bluesy overdriven tone of a vintage tube amplifier, packed in a stompbox.

And it does the job pretty well if you look at its many favorable ratings and reviews.

This pedal is also a favorite among "modders", who tweak the components and circuitry of the pedal to their preference, some of these modded versions have even made their way into the pedalboards of famous guitarists.

This should be on your list if you're looking for a good tube-like overdriven tone.

Note: Boss released another pedal based on this one: Boss BD-2W Blues Driver.

Specifications

Controls: Level, Tone, Gain
Analog
Hardwire Bypass
9-Volt Adapter/Battery
Used by: Billy Joe Armstrong, Prince, Tom Morello, Lincoln Brewster

Although this was previously on our recommended list, there are now more highly rated options available which you can see in our guide to The Best Overdrive Pedals.

Demo

About the Author

Alexander Briones

I have been writing about and researching music gear for many years, all while serving as a music director at my local church. I engage in guitar playing and singer-songwriter stints, in addition to mentoring young musicians and teaching guitar and bass.