Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion

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$83.77 to $109.99 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (458)

1 Critic Review

64 Reviews

Find out who is using Boss DS-2 Turbo

89 community setups

234 wishlisted

1280 saved

Page last updated Jul 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated July 7, 2026.

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4.5 (19)

$109.99

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4.0 (16)

$109.99 $107.50 $2.49

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4.6 (499)

$105.50 New

$92.99 Used (Very Good)

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5.0 (49)

$83.77 53 available New

$45.00 49 available Used

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4.0 (86)

$108.18 $107.50 $0.68

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$109.99

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4.7 (385)

$85.00 $84.00 $1.00 · All time low

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£77.00

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Average Price: $94

Standard/Professional

$80

$181+

Price Tier

In the Distortion Effects Pedals category, Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion is a top-tier distortion pedal, delivering a versatile range of sounds to suit any guitarist's needs. This dynamic stompbox offers two distinctive Turbo modes - Turbo Mode I and Turbo Mode II, each with its own unique tonal characteristics.

Turbo Mode I serves up a warm, creamy distortion, with a flat frequency response for that natural-sounding crunch. It's perfect for both rhythm playing and sculpting rich chords. Whether you're dialing in just a hint of gain for a subtle breakup or cranking up the volume for a full-on saturated crunch, it retains exceptional clarity and touch sensitivity at any setting.

Switch to Turbo Mode II and you're in for a treat. This mode delivers a searing, mid-boosted distortion that's perfect for solos and lead playing. With a pronounced midrange bump, your expressive phrases will be at the forefront of the mix, cutting through even the loudest bands or noisy stages.

Another outstanding feature of the Boss DS-2 is the built-in remote jack. Connect an FS-5L footswitch for instant, hands-free switching between the twin Turbo modes. With this, you can keep your hands on your guitar and stomp between your choice of distortion flavors in a flash. Trust the legendary engineers at BOSS to give you a pedal with such versatility and convenience.

Key Features:

Two distinct Turbo modes for a wide spectrum of distortion
Turbo Mode I provides warm, creamy distortion with flat frequency response
Turbo Mode II delivers searing, mid-boosted distortion for lead playing
Built-in remote jack for hands-free switching between modes
Exceptional clarity and touch sensitivity at any setting
Can control an external effect or amp channel while toggling between modes
Legendary BOSS build quality and reliability

Owner's manual

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion User Manual

Product specs

Pedal Type	Distortion
Inputs	1 x Instrument
Outputs	1 x 1/4"
Power Source	9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Batteries	1 x 9V
Height	2.4"
Width	2.9"
Depth	5.1"
Weight	1 lbs.

FAQs

What are the two modes on the Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion?: The Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion features two modes: Turbo Mode I offers a warm, classic distortion sound, while Turbo Mode II delivers a more aggressive, high-gain distortion with a midrange boost, ideal for cutting through mixes.
How does the Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion compare to the DS-1?: The DS-2 builds on the classic DS-1 by adding Turbo modes, providing more tonal versatility and higher gain options, making it suitable for a wider range of musical styles.
Can the Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion be powered with a battery?: Yes, the Boss DS-2 can be powered using a 9V battery, providing convenience for players who prefer not to use a power supply.
Is the Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Boss DS-2 is well-suited for live performances, offering robust construction and versatile sound options that can adapt to different musical contexts on stage.
What type of power supply is compatible with the Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion?: The Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately, or it can be powered by a 9V battery for portable use.

Videos

Add video

BOSSchannel

BOSS DS-2 TURBO Distortion [BOSS Sound Check]

BOSSchannel

WILL IT CHUG? - BOSS TURBO DISTORTION DS-2

Ola Englund

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Demo

brandon672008

Boss Turbo Distortion DS 2 - DEMO

Victor Hugo Targino

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion (Turbo Must Mean It's Good...)

Elmo Karjalainen

How John Frusciante Uses The Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Pedal

Michael Banfield

Boss DS-1 Distortion Vs Boss DS-2 TURBO Distortion | Pedal Comparison

The Guitar Manifesto

BOSS DS-2 TURBO Distortion | Pedal Demo

JimijaymesGuitarist

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion

Wall of Sound

MusicMaker Presents - Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion

Musicmaker

Boss - DS-2 Turbo Distortion - Demo

Ryan Lutton

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Guitar Pedal | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Don't Misuse Your DS-2 | Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion

Mine Like Me

Make This Cheap Pedal Sound Like $$$

Michael Nielsen - Big Hairy Guitars

Boss Turbo Distortion DS-2 Demo and Review

Sandy Ridge Music

Reviews

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PROS

Versatile tones suitable for rock, grunge, punk, and more
Turbo mode offers enhanced solos and heavier sound options
Warm, mid-rangey distortion that's great for various music genres
Mode 1 offers DS-1-like tones; Mode 2 boosts mids for solos
Recognized and used by famous artists like Kurt Cobain
Provides a distinct, smooth distortion compared to other pedals
Durable build quality, typical of Boss pedals
Offers both distortion and overdrive/fuzz-like tones
Easy tone and volume adjustments for balanced sound
Can be used as a volume boost with lower distortion settings

CONS

Some prefer the sound of the DS-1 for its thinness
Volume drop issues with certain setups
Requires careful setting adjustments to avoid unwanted tones
Some users report it being noisy when engaged
Not as fat sounding as some users would prefer
May not respond well to overdrive boosting
Turbo function not always useful for all playing styles
Can sound fizzy or harsh if not properly adjusted

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion.

Features and functionality

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Turbo mode 2 on the DS-2 is more mids-focused, ideal for lead tones and achieving a Frusciante-like sound.
Source

Comparisons

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The DS-2's mode 1 is thicker and less mid-scooped than the DS-1, offering a different tonal quality despite shared lineage.
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Vintage DS-2 units are slightly louder and noisier, with a more usable tone knob that avoids a "bees in a tin can" sound quickly.
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Some vintage DS-2 units may have more lower midrange in Mode 1, resulting in a less scooped sound than newer models.
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The DS-2 is highlighted as a more versatile choice over a fuzz pedal for achieving a range of grunge tones, particularly aligned with Nirvana's sound.
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Use cases and applications

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Works well with a clean Fender-type amp for a grunge-like distortion; versatile from overdrive to fuzz.
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The DS-2 is especially suited for achieving tones reminiscent of Nirvana's live Nevermind performances and Mötley Crüe.
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Mode 1 on the DS-2 is designed to emulate the original DS-1, while Mode 2 was used more frequently after 1992.
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Owners recommend maxing out all knobs in Turbo mode 2 for a fuzz-like tone with pronounced mids, ideal for Frusciante-style sounds.
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The DS-2, when used in conjunction with a dirty amp or pedal, can achieve a rich, mid-heavy tone suitable for alternative rock genres.
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Value and pricing

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Considered a classic, robust pedal, often available at affordable prices, easier to resell if it doesn't meet expectations.
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User experience

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An owner with a newer DS-2 model confirms it effectively replicates the live tone from Nirvana's Nevermind tour.
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Users note that the DS-2 can be very loud when idle, but compresses well during play, which is a key characteristic appreciated by some.
Source

Build quality

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Older DS-2 models might have a higher likelihood of breaking sooner than modern versions.
Source

Critic Reviews

Classic Pedal – BOSS DS-2 Turbo Distortion | Squid Guitar Inc.

wordpress.com

The BOSS DS-2 Turbo Distortion is a staple in the pedalboards of many, known for its affordability and robust sound. Its two modes, including a 'turbo' option, offer versatile distortion that can switch from a classic DS-1 style to a fuller, mid-boosted tone. While designed for hard rock, its softer distortion found unexpected success in the alternative scene, used by legends like Kurt Cobain. Though its intended rhythm-lead setting use is debated, its enduring appeal lies in its durability and the distinctive sound that defined the early '90s. For those seeking a classic distortion with a touch of nostalgia, the DS-2 remains a strong contender.

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Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 64 Reviews and 458 Ratings

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alexandre_gamelas

about 10 years ago

Punch Punch Punch

I'm using the DS2 as my high gain option. This orange stompbox caught my intention due to Dani California's (The Red Hot Chili Peppers) sound.

It is a very easy to use pedal, with a very responsive tone knob, you can get a really huge amount of different sounds, especially when you factor in the turbo mode. The turbo mode it's something else! It gives you a mid frequency boost, and it makes it super easy to get a very sharp tone. When paired with an high gain level it almost sounds like a fuzz. Going back to it's DS1 mode, it does pretty much just that... a standard THICK distortion. Keep in mind that in either mode we are talking DISTORTION here, this baby really packs a punch

The pedal looks great and it feels great.

On a personal note, I think that it does not respond all that well to OD boosting... and that kinda bugs me.

onatkaracan

124

over 2 years ago

manyak bisi

drivelari cok iyi turboyu basiyom bi de mukemmel oluyo manyak pedal punk metal rock icin baya iyi

Preferred Settings + Usage:

level tone dist 10 turbo 2(on)

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Rock Hip Hop Funk

liam082

1869

over 10 years ago

Bought because I love the Ds-2 but found this abit disappointing

I bought this 2 years ago now, it's alright but I don't know, it sounds nowhere near as good as my DS-1 I like that ''Turbo'' switch which is basically a mid boost but, it's a good idea but honestly with my amp it sounds awful, heard it does from a few people actually so maybe not just me. Considering its basically a DS-1 it has abit of a different sound, its not quite so metallic sounding when you get past 12 o clock on the tone but it generally doesn't sound anywhere near as good as my DS-1. It is very loud though, very

piotrwk

633

over 2 years ago

Great

Great distortion with great sounds, it sounds quite different to the ds-1 but it think it sounds better.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Level - Max, Tone - 12.30 Distortion - Max

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Rock Psychedelic rock Metal

From Gear Setup

waldo_costa

over 8 years ago

It was ok as my first effect pedal.

As my first distortion pedal, bought in 1998, I can't complain about the how reliable it is. Since I got this on, I never had to repair it. I have used a lot in my early days and since I've started playing with better amplifiers I gave up using it. Maybe for some this could be a great distortion but for me it sound not as fat as I wanted it to be neither could get a nice mild distortion. I think it sounds better with humbuckers.

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Composer

Genres:

Rock Alternative rock

hnrikaster

143

about 3 years ago

Incredible pedal!

What else could I say? It's the infamous DS-2. This is my first "real" pedal, and I couldn't be more happy with how amazing sounding this pedal is.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Full Frusciante style: Level 5, Tone MAX, Dist MAX, Turbo Mode 2

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Composer

Genres:

Rock Alternative rock Post-hardcore

will_saavedra

112

almost 5 years ago

aint called turbo distortion for nothing

super heavy sounding pedal, if youre smart about it you can get quite a few tones out of this badboy . I have mine dialed in to sound like "woman tone'' .

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Rock Blues Funk / Soul

bamahammer

113

about 5 years ago

Unapologetic filth

I like to use this pedal as a lead pedal because of the crazy mids boost that Mode II gives you. Put it in front of your usual dirt set like a boost, and punch it when you're ready to lead. Your tone will come right out into your face.

Roles:

Guitarist

louis_dale

466

about 10 years ago

Love it

The DS-2 Turbo Distortion Pedal features twin modes for an expanded range of distortion - taking users from blues-rock rhythms to searing leads at the press of a pedal or twist of a knob.to cater to players of all genre's, the Boss DS-2 Turbo incorporates 2 different fundamental types of distortion selectable by the player. The basis for these models comes from the classic Boss distortion tone engine.urbo mode 1 on the DS-2 produces a really warm, mellow sounding distortion coupled with a flat frequency response, perfect for a good distortion that wont mess with your EQ settings.Turbo mode 2 fires up the mid-range to deliver a biting lead tones for delivering huge solo's that will lift out of the mix.

sandra_lee

435

about 8 years ago

My DS-1 sounds better

Maybe I have a bad unit, or maybe my DS-1 is a unicorn pedal that just sounds amazing. But my DS-2 has never really impressed me. I tried it for months on my pedalboard, listening to others about how superior it is. But finally decided to try my DS-1 again and bang remember why I loved the DS-1 so much. This pedal is just so blah in comparison.