PedalBro

Overdrive · Tube Screamer family · Boss

Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive

The SD-1 is a buffered-bypass overdrive that has been produced since 1981, featuring asymmetrical clipping and a pronounced midrange character. Guitar World rated it 4.5 out of 5, praising its sturdy construction and ease of use, though noting that excessive gain can introduce fizz and the midrange boost may not suit all players.

  • 9V DC · center −
  • 5 mA
  • Buffered bypass
  • Analog
New
from $66.35
Used (asking)
from $49

The rundown

Highlights

  • Runs on 9V DC with 5 mA draw, battery-compatible
  • Compact pedal measuring 73 x 130.2 mm
  • Buffered bypass switching
  • Asymmetrical clipping circuit with midrange emphasis
  • Made in Japan by Boss

Best for

Blues and rock players seeking a straightforward overdrive with established reliability and a characteristic midrange-focused drive character.

Professional reviews

What the press rated it. We link to each review; read the full piece for the details.

Quick facts

Power
9V DC
Current draw
5 mA
Polarity
Center negative
Bypass
Buffered bypass
Dimensions
73 × 130.2 mm
Status
In production

Where to buy Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive

$66.35 lowest new price · Reverb

Used listings asking $49–$184.25, median $86 (32 listings). Asking prices, not sold prices.

Current offers
SellerConditionPriceLink
ReverbUsed$49View
ReverbUsed$50View
ReverbUsed$50View
ReverbUsed$53.40View
ReverbUsed$54.99View
ReverbUsed$55View
ReverbUsed$55View
ReverbUsed$55View
ReverbUsed$55.02View
ReverbUsed$56.99View

Prices last checked 23 hours ago. Links to sellers are affiliate links.

Frequently asked questions

What power supply does the SD-1 use?

The SD-1 runs on a 9V DC supply with 5 mA current draw and is center-negative, and it is also battery-compatible.

What size is the SD-1?

The SD-1 measures 73 x 130.2 mm.

Does the SD-1 have true bypass?

The SD-1 features buffered bypass rather than true bypass.

Similar pedals

Same type, similar features.

Specs from pedalfilter. Summary written by PedalBro from those specs and public descriptions.

Page last updated September 29, 2026.