BOSS DS-2 Turbo Distortion Guitar Effects Pedal

The BOSS DS-2 Turbo Distortion is a compact guitar effects pedal designed to add controlled distortion to an instrument signal. It provides two selectable Turbo modes, giving players distinct distortion voices from one stompbox. Level, Tone, and Dist controls let users tailor output volume, overall tonal balance, and distortion amount. It is a practical option for players who want a dedicated distortion sound without changing amplifier settings.

Turbo I supplies a full, articulate distortion character with enhanced low end and midrange. It can be adjusted from lighter driven sounds to thicker distortion using the DIST control. This mode is suited to rhythm parts or players looking for a responsive distortion voice. The active Tone control helps refine the high- and low-frequency character for different guitars and amplifiers.

Turbo II provides a higher-gain distortion character with a pronounced midrange boost. Its focused midrange helps lead lines remain defined when used alongside other instruments. The two-way Turbo selector makes it simple to choose the desired voice from the pedal. An optional external footswitch can also switch Turbo modes remotely.

The DS-2 uses a discrete analog circuit design and a buffered bypass. Its CHECK indicator shows effect status and also serves as a battery-check indicator. Standard 1/4-inch input and output connections allow the pedal to fit into conventional instrument pedal chains. A dedicated REMOTE jack supports hands-free Turbo mode switching with a compatible optional footswitch.

Power is available from the included 9 V carbon-zinc battery or a separately sold BOSS PSA-series AC adaptor. The compact enclosure measures 73 mm wide by 129 mm deep, making it easy to place on a pedalboard or use as a standalone effect. Its 1 MΩ input impedance is appropriate for standard instrument-level connections. The DS-2 can serve as a primary distortion pedal or as a selectable two-voice drive stage within a larger effects setup.

Key Features

• Dual Turbo Modes: Selects between two distinct distortion voices.
• Turbo I Voice: Delivers full distortion with enhanced lows and mids.
• Turbo II Voice: Adds high gain and pronounced midrange focus.
• Discrete Analog Circuit: Provides low-noise analog distortion operation.
• Remote Switching: Supports optional footswitch control of Turbo modes.
• Buffered Bypass: Maintains a buffered signal path when bypassed.

Design & Installation

The DS-2 is housed in BOSS's compact pedal format and uses a foot-operated pedal switch for effect on/off control. Its control layout includes separate TURBO, DIST, TONE, and LEVEL knobs, plus a CHECK indicator. The unit measures 73 x 129 x 59 mm and weighs 395 g with its battery installed. Its discrete circuit design is intended for low-noise operation.

Connect an instrument cable to the 1/4-inch INPUT jack and run the 1/4-inch OUTPUT jack to the next device in the signal path. Select Turbo I or Turbo II with the onboard control, then set LEVEL, TONE, and DIST to suit the surrounding equipment and playing style. For hands-free Turbo changes, connect an optional external footswitch to the 1/4-inch REMOTE jack. Use a 9 V battery or a separately sold BOSS PSA-series AC adaptor for power.