Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $179

Standard/Professional

$80

$181+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash your guitar's potential with the Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion. This innovative pedal brings together the aggressive tones of a distortion effect with a unique built-in feedback function. The DF-2 stands out with its ability to hold a note and make it feedback at any volume level, giving you the power to create compelling and dynamic performances. It's a game-changer for musicians seeking to add an extra layer of depth and intensity to their sound.

Key Features:

  • Distortion pedal with a unique built-in feedbacking function
  • Ability to hold a note and make it feedback at any volume level
  • Ideal for creating dynamic performances
  • Manufactured by the reliable Boss brand
  • Earlier models made in Japan with a black label on the back are highly sought after.

Product specs

Brand Boss
Model DF-2 Super Feedbacker and Distortion
Finish Orange
Year 1985 - 1989
Made In Japan
Categories Distortion Pedals

FAQs

What makes the Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion unique compared to other distortion pedals?

The Boss DF-2 combines distortion with a unique feedback feature that allows you to sustain notes and create controlled feedback at any volume, which is not common in typical distortion pedals.

How does the feedback function work on the Boss DF-2?

The feedback function is activated by holding down the pedal's footswitch, which generates a controlled feedback tone that can be adjusted with the pedal's controls.

Is the Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Boss DF-2 is well-suited for live performances, offering both versatile distortion tones and the ability to create feedback effects on demand, enhancing stage dynamics.

Can the Boss DF-2 be used with both guitar and bass?

While primarily designed for electric guitar, the Boss DF-2 can also be used with bass guitars, though tonal results may vary depending on the bass's frequency range.

What power supply is required for the Boss DF-2?

The Boss DF-2 requires a 9V power supply, which can be provided by a standard 9V battery or an appropriate AC adapter.

gearmanndude

gearmanndude

Boss Super Feedbacker and Distortion Pedal Demo DF-2

Video thumbnail for Boss Super Feedbacker and Distortion Pedal Demo DF-2 by gearmanndude

Boss Super Feedbacker and Distortion Pedal Demo DF-2

gearmanndude

gearmanndude

Video thumbnail for Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion DF2 by Dennis Kayzer

Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion DF2

Dennis Kayzer

Dennis Kayzer

Video thumbnail for Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker and Distortion Pedal -Demo- by sillennium

Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker and Distortion Pedal -Demo-

sillennium

sillennium

Video thumbnail for Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion by TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Video thumbnail for 3 MINUTES WITH THE BOSS DF-2 by The Pedal Picassos

3 MINUTES WITH THE BOSS DF-2

The Pedal Picassos

The Pedal Picassos

Video thumbnail for BOSS DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion by Cryptic Mask Guitar

BOSS DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Video thumbnail for Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker and Distortion Made in Japan by Pedal Sessions

Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker and Distortion Made in Japan

Pedal Sessions

Pedal Sessions

Video thumbnail for '85 BOSS DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion by tenokuni-japan

'85 BOSS DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

tenokuni-japan

tenokuni-japan

Reviews

PROS

  • Distinct from DS-1 with a less shrill sound, loved for years

  • Feedbacker offers natural sounding, easily controlled feedback

  • Compatible with super overdrive for a metallic sound

  • Unexpected vibrato feature adds to the sound

  • Durable construction typical of Boss products

  • Allows for creative feedback at will

CONS

  • Feedbacker functionality requires distortion mode to be active

  • Some find the distortion effect generic and reminiscent of the '80s

  • Overtone feature less pronounced compared to other models

  • Feedback effect might not convincingly simulate natural guitar feedback for all users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion.

Comparisons

  • The DF-2 is often compared to the DS-1 but is noted for having a less harsh, heavier distortion sound associated with the band Hum.

    Source
  • Modern alternatives for the feedback function include the Boss FB-2, Digitech Freqout, and Fender Runaway, which offer similar effects.

    Source
  • The DF-2's distortion resembles a Vox AC30 amp at breakup when played into a Fender Blues Deluxe with a WGS G12C speaker.

    Source
  • Leyland Pedals in the UK offers a DF-2 clone, which is a cost-effective alternative for those primarily interested in the distortion feature without feedback.

    Source
  • Leyland Hum Along and Sound of Justice Axolotl are reasonably priced clones focusing on the DF-2's distortion without feedback features.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The feedback feature generates a sine wave at the pitch of the note played, offering an artificial yet unique feedback sound.

    Source
  • Early DF-2 versions reportedly suffer from low output levels, which may not be loud enough for some users.

    Source
  • Engaging the feedback and toggling the switch changes the feedback pitch, providing a unique way to manipulate sound.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The DF-2 is expensive due to its rarity, discontinuation, and the hype surrounding its unique features, especially in the current used pedal market.

    Source
  • The DF-2's used prices are considered high, suggesting alternative feedback and distortion setups might be more cost-effective.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Clipping a capacitor can transform the feedback into a pronounced throb, emulating Swervedriver's sound. This mod stems from a common bad solder joint issue.

    Source
  • For a cheaper feedback solution, consider pairing a DS-1 with a feedback pedal like the Fender Runaway or Digitech Freqout.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some units display crooked labels or skewed top plates, possibly due to slippage of side screws.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Early models require a 12V ACA power supply; using a standard 9V can dim the LED and affect output levels.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Utilizing the feedbacker in a looper with harmony adjustments can create synth-like pads for layering.

    Source
  • Swervedriver's distinct guitar sound extensively uses the DF-2, appealing to fans seeking to replicate their tone.

    Source

Critic Reviews

I Heart Guitar Review: Boss DF-2 vs FB-2 - Roland Resource Centre

rolandcorp.com.au

The Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion pedal, a relic from 1984, offers a quirky blend of distortion and synthetic feedback, perfect for indie musicians seeking unique textures. However, its artificial tone and occasional noise glitches may deter purists. In contrast, the modern FB-2 Feedbacker/Booster reimagines the concept with enhanced control and versatility, allowing guitarists to seamlessly integrate feedback into their play. While the DF-2 has its charm, the FB-2 elevates feedback manipulation to new heights, making it the better choice for today's discerning players.

Add

4.0 out of 5

Based on 8 Reviews and 42 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
S

LOVe IT

i dislike how there is a tiny delay with the feedback but it is good overall

Preferred Settings + Usage:

level max tone 4-6 dist max overtone max

jimmarchi1

it does what it says

makes a soemahwat tuneable feedback noise at any amplifier settings... its also a generic 80s distortion effect not unlike a DS2. I suspect its a DS2 circuit with a cocked wah thing built in. thatw as all ther age for awhile when Iw as a kid. really goofy effect. Best sued when you have to fil in for Snowy White in Roger Waters band or when you just want to annoy people.

mart_ace74

not so sure

I'm not pretty sure that the pedal in this picture is a DF-2... you can clearly notice the two arrows on the right side of the pedal where you have the jacks for "input"&"remote" of the DS-2... the 2 pedals are very similar (cause of the 4 knobs) but i still think that this is a DS-2... I own them both, by the way...even the DS-1...

ebowglow

Those are really great pedals! Lots of fun!

F

Good could be better

Love the overtone feature but it could be present.

reaper25

Its okay

The BOSS FB-2 has a waaaaay better feedbacker built in. So I got this one modded.

fernghouly

fuck yea feedback

i love the feedback creator. tones are okay but i love that you can feedback at will

ebowglow

Watch the paint peel off the walls (if thats what you want).

Strike a chord and listen to the massive feedback wave fill your guitar amps cabinet! very cool for feedback effects! And Its a very aggressive Distortion!

T

Boss distortion

This is My 1st stomp box i ever bought.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Kurt Cobain uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Kurt Cobain

Singer, Guitarist

Nirvana

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Kurt Cobain can be seen using this Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion in concert. This pedal can be confused with the DS-2 Turbo Distortion because of their similitude but this is the actual pedal he used for the majority of concerts Nirvana had, just look at it and you're going to notice that the name of the distortion is longer.

See how Kevin Shields uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Kevin Shields

Guitarist, Singer

My Bloody Valentine

...
Verified via Photo

In this BeatRoute magazine page, it shows that Kevin Shields was using a Boss Super Distortion in his live rig in the late 80's. It was likely also used in studio recordings around that same time.

See how Jake E. Lee uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Jake E. Lee

Guitarist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified via Naver

Used on "I Magnify", as specified in this July 20, 2012 breakdown of a A Fine Pink Mist gear list printed in the October 1996 issue of Young Guitar.

See how Nick Reinhart uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Nick Reinhart

Singer, Guitarist

Death Grips

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post by Nick Reinhart, the Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion pedal can be clearly identified on the top shelf of his pedal wall. It is the orange pedal positioned next to the Boss OC-2, as seen in the image shared by Reinhart with the caption: “when’s dinner?” you just had dinner. “yea i know, so when’s dinner?”

See how Matt Talbott uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Matt Talbott

Singer, Guitarist

HUM

...
Verified via Bp

Yellow pedal w/ black duct tape over the logo and model engraving, control knob covers are removed

See how Fennesz uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Fennesz

Guitarist, Music Producer

MIMEO

...
Verified via Twitter

A photo of various dirt pedals that Christian has used both live and in the studio

See how Adam Franklin uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Adam Franklin

Guitarist

Swervedriver

...
Verified via Photo

According to Guitar Geek, Adam uses a Boss DF-2 pedal.

See how Aaron North uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Aaron North

Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Photo

In a feature article by Total Guitar, it is stated that Aaron uses the Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion pedal.

See how Jim Heath uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Jim Heath

Singer, Guitarist

The Reverend Horton Heat

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 1:08 mark Jim can be seen tweaking the feedbacker during psychobilly freakout.

See how Matthew Caws uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Matthew Caws

Guitarist

Nada Surf

...
Verified via Photo

In this twitter pic a Boss DF2 is seen

See how Boz Boorer uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Boz Boorer

Guitarist

Polecats

...
Verified via YouTube

(4:29 minute mark) - Boorer says that is a good distortion pedal, but he uses it because of the special feedback effect it has, not because of the distortion effect. He further demoes the sound he opts to get.

See how Kevin Rutmanis uses Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion

Kevin Rutmanis

Bassist

Melvins

...
Verified via YouTube

Kevin talks about writing a riff around this pedals feedback feature in ep 320 of Conan Neutrons podcast.

Album Usage

The Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Boss DD-3 Digital Delay
Boss DD-3 Digital Delay Delay Effects Pedals
5
Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay
Boss PS-2 Digital Pitch Shifter/Delay Harmonizer & Octave Effects Pedals
4
Pro Co RAT 2
Pro Co RAT 2 Distortion Effects Pedals
3
Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer
Boss CS-3 Compression Sustainer Compressor Effects Pedals
2
Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal
Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal Distortion Effects Pedals
2
Boss BF-2 Flanger
Boss BF-2 Flanger Flanger Effects Pedals
2
Boss TR-2 Tremolo
Boss TR-2 Tremolo Tremolo Effects Pedals
2
Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer
Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer Overdrive Effects Pedals
2
Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi
Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi Fuzz Effects Pedals
2
Mosrite Fuzzrite
Mosrite Fuzzrite Fuzz Effects Pedals
1

Community setups

Show yours
jaymclaine

jaymclaine

Gear IQ 266

matthewjwilesmith

matthewjwilesmith

Gear IQ 398

3 alternative and related items for Boss DF-2 Super Feedbacker & Distortion, curated by the Equipboard community.

Leyland Pedals Hum Along

 

similar sound

The circuit of the Hum Along pedal is stated by the builder to be a cloned from the DF-2.

More Boss Distortion Effects Pedals

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides