The Maxon OD808 Overdrive is a reissue of the iconic overdrive pedal that launched thousands of famous rock guitar tones. First released in 1979, the OD808 was one of the earliest overdrive pedals to simulate the natural tube amp overdrive and distortion that defined the '70s rock sound. Today, the OD808 design is the most copied overdrive circuit ever, but none can match the smooth, creamy tube-amp crunch of the original. For guitarists seeking authentic vintage overdrive, the Maxon OD808 Overdrive delivers the mild breakup and touch-sensitive dynamics of a cranked tube amp in a compact, easy-to-use pedal.

Natural Tube-Amp Overdrive

The secret to the OD808's tone lies in its innovative circuit design. Unlike most overdrives that use a separate clipping stage to distort the signal, the OD808 achieves overdrive within its amplifier circuit using a signal-distorting diode. This results in a smoother, more amp-like overdrive that retains the dynamics and clarity of your guitar's original tone. From a subtle boost to pushed tube amp tones, the OD808 Overdrive covers the full range of overdriven sounds that defined the classic rock era.

Touch-Sensitive and Responsive

With a design focused on simulating tube amps, the OD808 Overdrive is highly touch-sensitive and responsive. Just like a cranked tube amp, the OD808 reacts dynamically to changes in your guitar's volume and tone controls as well as your picking dynamics. Roll back the volume on your guitar or lighten your picking attack and the OD808 cleans up for spanky rhythm tones. Dig in harder or crank your guitar's volume to unleash a blistering lead tone. For guitarists used to the responsiveness of tube amps, the OD808 Overdrive feels like an natural extension of your rig.

Simple But Versatile

Despite its complex circuitry, the OD808 Overdrive is straightforward to dial in and use. A single Drive knob lets you adjust the amount of overdrive from clean boost to saturated tube-amp tones. The Tone control cuts or boosts high frequencies to suit your guitar and amp. You can also use the OD808 as a clean volume boost by keeping the Drive set low. The OD808's simplicity and versatility have made it a staple overdrive for guitarists in all genres of rock, from classic to alternative to hard rock.

Roadworthy and Gig-Ready

The OD808 Overdrive features a durable, roadworthy design built to handle the demands of gigging and touring. Its solid metal chassis and footswitches are designed to last through years of shows and sessions. The OD808 runs on a standard 9V battery or optional power supply. For guitarists wanting the tone and touch-sensitivity of a tube amp in a pedalboard-friendly package, the Maxon OD808 Overdrive is the premier choice for gig-ready overdrive.