10 Best Distortion Pedals 2025 in the United States

The FLAMMA FC19 distortion pedal is designed for electric guitarists seeking a warm, vintage tone. This pedal offers two modes: vintage and turbo, giving users some versatility in their sound. With its compact and durable metal construction, it's built to withstand regular use and is easy to fit on a crowded pedalboard.

The true bypass feature ensures that your guitar's tone remains transparent when the pedal is not in use, which is a key feature for maintaining sound quality. However, it's important to note that the power supply is not included, so you'll need to purchase that separately. The pedal operates on a 9-volt power supply, typical for most guitar pedals.

Weighing just 0.17 kilograms and with small dimensions, it's very portable. On the downside, the mini size might mean smaller knobs, which could be less convenient for quick adjustments during a performance. Also, the pedal’s functionality is relatively basic with limited tone control options. For those who appreciate a simple, sturdy pedal with a classic sound, the FLAMMA FC19 is a solid choice.

The Boss MT-2 Metal Zone Distortion Guitar Pedal is an iconic high-gain distortion pedal known for its thick and tight distortion sounds with smooth, singing sustain. The innovative dual-stage gain circuit helps achieve massive, satisfying sounds at any volume level, making it ideal for metal styles and heavy rhythms. It also works well for soaring solos in other genres, showcasing its versatility.

The pedal includes a wide gain range, allowing for a variety of distortion levels to suit different playing styles and preferences. The tone control feature is well-designed, enabling players to shape their sound effectively. True bypass is a significant advantage, ensuring that the pedal does not affect your signal when turned off, maintaining the purity of your guitar's tone.

The build quality is robust, typical of BOSS products, ensuring long-lasting durability. However, the pedal's weight of 431 grams might be considered heavy for some users, and its dimensions may not be the most compact, potentially taking up more space on a pedalboard. The Boss MT-2 Metal Zone is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, high-gain distortion pedal, particularly suited for metal enthusiasts, but versatile enough for various music styles.

The Wampler Gearbox Andy Wood Signature Overdrive Distortion Pedal stands out as a versatile option for guitarists, especially those looking for a range of overdrive and distortion sounds. With its dual-channel setup, it combines the Tumnus Overdrive and the Pinnacle Deluxe, allowing players to easily switch between or combine two distinct tones. This feature is particularly beneficial for musicians who want flexibility in their sound during performances or recordings. The inclusion of a 3-band EQ on the Pinnacle channel allows for detailed tonal shaping, accommodating various musical styles and preferences.

The gain range is impressive, giving users the ability to dial in everything from a light overdrive to a heavier distortion. The noise door feature is another highlight, as it helps eliminate unwanted noise, ensuring a cleaner signal when desired. Additionally, the true bypass design maintains signal integrity when the pedal is off, which is crucial for preserving your overall tone.

The pedal’s dual-channel complexity might be overwhelming for beginners who are still getting accustomed to using distortion pedals. Its compact size is great for pedalboards, but the weight (454 grams) could be a consideration for those who prioritize lightweight gear. Powering the pedal requires a 9-volt supply, which is standard, but potential buyers should ensure their setups can accommodate this. The build quality is robust as it's made in the USA, providing some reassurance about its durability. However, the price point may be higher compared to other distortion pedals that offer fewer features. The Wampler Gearbox is an excellent choice for experienced players looking for versatile tonal options, while beginners might find it a bit complex at first.