Boss DS-2

The Boss DS-2 TURBO Distortion is a developed version of the Boss DS-1. It has two modes normal, DS-1, and 'turbo,' which offer two totally different sounds, anything from a soft rock distortion to full on grunge. This pedal was utilised by Kurt Cobain on In Utero and is frequently used by Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante.

In Comparison to the Boss DS-1

The DS-2 has some subtle differences when compared to the DS-1. For example The DS-2 has a wider range of distortion; when the DIST knob is turned all the way down there is a very subtle crunch with almost no distortion at all, when the DS-1 still has some grit to it. The DS-2 has two settings Turbo I & II, which can be switched if the separate footswitch for it is purchased. When on setting I the sound is pretty similar to a DS-1 but the tone is a little warmer and grittier, with a less shrill high-end. When in Turbo mode II the sound changes dramatically; this setting was made with soloing in mind, giving a big boost to the mids and overall volume of the pedal.

Choosing between the two is up to the guitarist; Kurt Cobain, John Frusciante and many other musicians to use the DS-2 have been known repeatedly switch between the two, or use each pedal for different songs to achieve the desired sound.