Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (7)
$149.00 $128.94 $20.06 · All time low
Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$149.00
Amazon
4.1 (74)
$128.91 $125.48 $3.43 · All time low New
$119.00 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (18)
$114.67 New
$70.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (2)
$149.00

Average Price: $121

Standard/Professional

$50

$176+

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Standard

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Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Danelectro The Breakdown". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Danelectro The Breakdown, a no-nonsense overdrive pedal that brings the legendary tones of the '60s back to life. This pedal was once used by a guitar god to record his first album, and it's now back to make waves once again.

The Breakdown is a straightforward, user-friendly pedal, featuring a single volume knob and a 6-way breakup selector. It's an organic-sounding pedal, with a broad spectrum of tonal possibilities. Dial the selector to positions 1-3 for a subtle grit that's perfect for everyday use, or crank it up to positions 4-6 for a punchy, explosive overdrive that will leave you breathless.

This pedal is not just about getting louder - it's about adding depth, warmth, and character to your sound. Whether you're playing in your bedroom or on a grand stage, the Breakdown is a reliable companion that will take your tone to the next level. And the best part? You won't have to spend hours tweaking settings to get the perfect sound. The Breakdown is all about plug-and-play simplicity, letting you focus on what you do best: making music.

Key Features:

  • Overdrive and boost pedal inspired by an iconic '60s drive pedal
  • 6-way breakup selector for a range of tonal possibilities, from subtle grit to powerful overdrive
  • User-friendly design with a single volume control
  • Offers a warm, organic tone with minimal tweaking required
  • Excellent for both everyday use and performance settings

Product specs

Pedal Type Overdrive, Boost
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
True Bypass Yes
Bypass Switching Relay Bypass
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Power Usage 6mA
Height 2.31"
Width 2.31"
Depth 4.37"

FAQs

What is the Danelectro The Breakdown overdrive pedal based on?

The Danelectro The Breakdown is based on the rare Univox UD-50 Uni-Drive, known for its use by iconic guitarists like Hendrix and Jimmy Page in the late '60s and early '70s.

Does the Danelectro The Breakdown work well with both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Danelectro The Breakdown is designed to work with both guitar and bass, providing a versatile overdrive and boost suitable for a variety of musical styles.

What power supply does the Danelectro The Breakdown require?

The Danelectro The Breakdown requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It has a power usage of 6mA.

Is the Danelectro The Breakdown true bypass?

Yes, the Danelectro The Breakdown features true bypass with relay switching, ensuring your signal remains unaffected when the pedal is not engaged.

How many gain stages are available on the Danelectro The Breakdown?

The Danelectro The Breakdown offers six distinct gain stages, allowing you to dial in a range of overdrive tones from subtle boost to full-on distortion.

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Danelectro: The Breakdown™

Video thumbnail for Danelectro: The Breakdown™ by Brett Kingman

Danelectro: The Breakdown™

Brett Kingman

Brett Kingman

Video thumbnail for Danelectro THE BREAKDOWN boost/overdrive pedal - demo by RJ Ronquillo by R.J. Ronquillo

Danelectro THE BREAKDOWN boost/overdrive pedal - demo by RJ Ronquillo

R.J. Ronquillo

R.J. Ronquillo

Video thumbnail for The Breakdown by Danelectro - 6 Ways of Awesome! by intheblues

The Breakdown by Danelectro - 6 Ways of Awesome!

intheblues

intheblues

Video thumbnail for Danelectro THE BREAKDOWN boost overdrive pedal. Led Zeppelin tones? My impression. Shawn Tubbs by Shawn Tubbs

Danelectro THE BREAKDOWN boost overdrive pedal. Led Zeppelin tones? My impression. Shawn Tubbs

Shawn Tubbs

Shawn Tubbs

Video thumbnail for First Look - Danelectro The Breakdown by Premier Guitar

First Look - Danelectro The Breakdown

Premier Guitar

Premier Guitar

Video thumbnail for Andy checks out 'The Breakdown™' pedal by Danelectro by Danelectro Official

Andy checks out 'The Breakdown™' pedal by Danelectro

Danelectro Official

Danelectro Official

Video thumbnail for Danelectro The Breakdown Drive Pedal Demo by Guitarist

Danelectro The Breakdown Drive Pedal Demo

Guitarist

Guitarist

Video thumbnail for Danelectro The Breakdown Overdrive Pedal | Review by Guitar Interactive Magazine

Danelectro The Breakdown Overdrive Pedal | Review

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Video thumbnail for Danelectro The Breakdown - Sound Demo (no talking) by Guitar Bonedo

Danelectro The Breakdown - Sound Demo (no talking)

Guitar Bonedo

Guitar Bonedo

Video thumbnail for The Boost/Overdrive/Fuzz - Danelectro 'The Breakdown' by TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

The Boost/Overdrive/Fuzz - Danelectro 'The Breakdown'

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Reviews

PROS

  • 6 position selector offers versatile gain levels

  • Transparent OD/boost rivals higher-priced pedals

  • Silicon transistors provide reliability and affordability

  • Easy to change and remember settings between songs

  • Works well with both clean amps and direct PA setups

  • Compares favorably to more expensive Uni-vox Uni-Drive

  • Excellent for both clean boost and gritty distortion

  • Responsive dynamics cater to soft or hard playing

  • Compact footprint saves pedalboard space

  • Enhances clean tones without sounding sterile

CONS

  • Bass tones slightly diminished

  • Highs/mids slightly increased, may not suit all preferences

  • Clean end slightly less sparkly compared to some alternatives

Critic Reviews

Danelectro The Breakdown Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The Danelectro The Breakdown is a powerful yet affordable tool for guitarists, offering a range of gain options from subtle boosts to aggressive fuzz. Its simplicity and effectiveness can transform an amp's character, making it a versatile addition for those seeking tone enhancement. However, while modes 2-6 deliver impressive results, they introduce background hiss when pushed past noon, which could be a dealbreaker for some. Overall, it’s a solid choice for players looking to expand their sonic palette without breaking the bank.

positive

Danelectro The Breakdown

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

Danelectro's The Breakdown is a delightful fusion of vintage charm and modern performance. With its quirky design and superb build quality, this overdrive pedal offers a range of satisfying sounds, from subtle boosts to intense saturation. The simplicity of its controls is refreshing, making it accessible for players at any level. While some may miss more complex features, the pedal's analog warmth and true bypass operation shine through, making it a must-try for blues and classic rock enthusiasts. Overall, The Breakdown is a fun and effective addition to any pedalboard.

positive

Danelectro The Breakdown review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Breakdown pedal offers a blend of vintage charm and modern simplicity, making it a practical tool for any guitarist. Its six break-up positions provide a range of tones, from clean boosts to gritty drives, which can effectively enhance your amp's character. However, the faux-distressed finish raises questions about the necessity of its cost. While many will appreciate its straightforward operation and nostalgic design, some may find that the aesthetic choices detract from its overall value.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Joe Perry uses Danelectro The Breakdown

Joe Perry

Guitarist

Hollywood Vampires

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video by Tim Pierce Guitar, Joe Perry discusses his use of the Danelectro The Breakdown pedal, likening it to a Rangemaster Treble booster, similar to the one used by Brian May.

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 Danelectro The Breakdown, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1 alternative for Danelectro The Breakdown, curated by the Equipboard community.

Univox UD-50 Uni-Drive

 

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound high-end alternative

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    igor4444
    igor4444

    Gear IQ 2050