If you’re wondering if BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 is a good guitar pedal or not, don’t worry – you’ve come to the right part of the internet! In today’s in-depth review, I’m going to take a very close look on that affordable effect. Surely, it’s a really popular pedal, but is it actually worth the money?
It is not surprising that BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 is one of the best-selling products made by this manufacturer. This is a really good sounding and affordable pedal that gives you access to a classic vintage tube amp sound. It’s definitely worth the money!
Let’s dive deeper with research to find out what exactly makes this pedal so good and so popular. Firstly, we’ll have a look at the specs and the main advantages of that effect. We’ll also investigate if it has any flaws. Of course, there will be a few sound demos included too, so you’ll be able to hear how it sounds!
BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 – Specs & Pricing
BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 is a highly effective and versatile guitar pedal suitable for the most demanding guitarists out there. It offers a smooth, vintage tube overdrive and distortion.
The BD-2 is really easy to use – it has only three controls: Level, Tone and Gain. This simplicity is a big advantage of that pedal, because it means that it can be efficiently used by both beginners and more intermediate players. It’s also great if you’re playing live on the stage!
The Blues Driver gives you access to a really warm overdrive, so as you can imagine, it’s perfect for both rhythm and lead guitarists. This pedal does a great job at imitating the old-school tube amp sound. So if you can’t afford getting a high-end valve amp, choosing the BD-2 may be a better choice!
It is also worth mentioning that the Blues Driver is also really well made. The effect features a very solid construction, which will be hard to beat. Undoubtedly, if you decide to add this pedal to your pedalboard, it’s likely that it will last you for years to come.
When it comes to pricing, it’s one of the most affordable pedals made by BOSS. This pedal proves that you don’t necessarily need to spend hundreds of dollars in order to find a good and reliable overdrive and distortion pedal. That being said, it’s definitely worth the money!
Here’s the sound demo – feel free to check it out below.
Who Is It For?
BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 can be efficiently used by both amateur and more advanced players. It will work perfectly as your first guitar pedal, but at the same time you’ll be really happy with using it during live gigs or jam sessions.
Since it’s a really versatile effect, it can be used in pretty much all genres of music. Whether you’re into blues, country, hard rock or indie – you will definitely benefit from adding the Blues Driver to your own pedalboard.
It is also worth mentioning that this pedal is not overly expensive, so it’s suitable for guitarists on a tight budget. Of course, it’s not the cheapest effect in the world, but considering how good it is, it’s definitely worth every cent.
Undoubtedly, the vast majority of guitarists will be satisfied with the overall quality of the BOSS Blues Driver. That’s why I highly encourage you to check it out!
Here’s an another sound demo.
BOSS BD-2W
What’s interesting, BOSS also manufactures an another version of the BD-2 pedal – the BD-2W Waza Craft. It’s a bit newer pedal, but at the same time – it’s more expensive.
The manufacturer equipped this model with a mini toggle that allows you to switch between the classic BD-2 sound and the custom mode which is exclusive for that model. The custom mode adds a bit of sustain and girth, so it’s ideal for lead guitarists.
Overall, it’s an another excellent and versatile guitar effect. But apart from that custom mode, this pedal is pretty much the same as the original Blues Driver.
Here’s the sound demo.
BOSS BD-2 vs BD-2W
Many guitarists don’t know whether they should choose BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 or BD-2W. For me, the answer is pretty clear.
In most cases, BOSS BD-2 will be a better choice. It sounds great, it’s really versatile and it’s not that expensive, so anyone should be able to afford it. The custom mode from BD-2W is also useful, but considering the fact that this Waza Craft pedal is far more expensive, it’s up to you whether you’re okay with spending the additional money or not.
I think that both of these pedals are really good, but the new functions from BD-2W are not that necessary. That’s why I’d choose the BD-2 over the BD-2W.
Are There Any Alternatives?
If you don’t like the sound of these Blues Driver pedals, don’t worry! There’s still a lot of great guitar effects out there. Of course, it all depends on what exactly you’re searching for and how much are you willing to spend it.
Here’s a few more cool pedals that you may also like.
Firstly, I highly encourage you to check out Fender Pugilist Distortion. It’s an excellent and really versatile pedal that can be used in pretty much all styles of music. It’s like having two great pedals (overdrive and distortion) in one durable and great looking box. In my opinion, it’s definitely worth the money!
Alternatively, you can also check out BOSS DS1 and BOSS DS2. These two effects are loved by professional musicians, so it’s very likely that they’re often used by your favorite guitarists. Both of these pedals significantly impacted the rock and metal music, so if that’s your ting – you should definitely check it out.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can also check out my list of 8 Best Distortion Pedals Under $100. Although getting a budget guitar effect is not always recommended, it’s still possible to find a few good effects that don’t cost hundreds of dollars.
But overall, BOSS Blues Driver has everything that you need from an overdrive pedal. If you want to add the vintage, bluesy flavor to your guitar tone – choosing either BD-2 or BD-2W will be a good decision.
FAQ
Where is BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 made?
BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 is manufactured in Taiwan.
When did the BOSS Blues Driver come out?
BOSS Blues Driver initially came out in 1995.
Where can I find out more information about BOSS pedals?
If you want to learn more about the pedals made by this legendary manufacturer, check out the official website of BOSS.
Summary
As you can see, BOSS Blues Driver BD-2 is a really cool and versatile pedal. Considering how affordable it is, it’s definitely worth checking out. I’m sure that if you decide to add it to your own pedalboard, you will be really satisfied with your choice.
What do you think about that guitar effect? Do you think that it’s worth it? Leave a comment down below and let me know what you think, I’m really interested to hear your thoughts!
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