The MXR Distortion is a legendary overdrive/distortion pedal known for its warm, vintage-style grit and smooth clipping. A staple on countless pedalboards since the 1970s, this compact yet powerful pedal delivers everything from subtle overdrive to full-throttle distortion, making it a go-to choice for rock, blues, and classic metal tones.

Please Note: This older version of the pedal has no power supply input and can only be powered via battery

With just two simple controls—Output and Distortion—the MXR Distortion allows players to dial in the perfect amount of gain and volume with ease. At lower settings, it adds a touch of breakup and warmth, while higher gain levels produce a raw, saturated distortion that cuts through the mix with rich harmonics and sustain.

This pedal is particularly beloved for its ability to retain clarity and dynamics, responding naturally to picking attack and guitar volume adjustments. It works exceptionally well as a boost in front of a tube amp, pushing it into natural overdrive while maintaining the amp’s character.

Housed in MXR’s iconic yellow enclosure, the Distortion is built for reliability, featuring rugged metal construction and true bypass switching. Its straightforward design and road-tested durability make it a favourite among guitarists looking for classic distortion in a simple, no-frills package.