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DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive

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Photo of DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive and more gear in a pedalboard, studio, and guitar

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DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive

^# 52

Equipboard's ranking is determined by analyzing factors such as professional artist usage, popularity, user ratings, reviews, and more.

$55.77 Price Tier: Standard

4.0 (135)

4 Critic Reviews

31 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Newer option

DOD Badder Monkey

$144.00 - $149.99

Find out who is using DigiTech Bad Monkey

22 community setups

34 wishlisted

296 saved

Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

4.0 (120)

$55.77 72 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $56

Standard/Professional

$50

$176+

Price Tier

In the Overdrive Effects Pedals category, DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Unleash your inner beast with the DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive. This pedal is not your ordinary overdrive; it's a versatile powerhouse, with the ability to provide a Tubescreamer-esque tone with a touch of a button. Equipped with separate high and low EQ controls, you have the freedom to shape your sound to your liking. What sets the Bad Monkey apart is its Mixer Output, which allows direct connection to a board or interface, eliminating the need for additional equipment. The cherry on top is the built-in cabinet simulator, a feature that pushes this pedal into a league of its own.

Key Features:

Tubescreamer-esque overdrive
Separate high and low EQ controls
Mixer Output for direct connection to a board or interface
Built-in cabinet simulator

Here's a good review from 2011: - https://www.guitartoneoverload.com/2011/06/12/digitech-bad-monkey-overdrive-cheap-but-not-cheap-sounding/

Product specs

Brand	DigiTech
Model	Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive
Finish	Green
Year	2004 - 2016
Made In	United States
Categories	Distortion Pedals, Overdrive and Boost Pedals

FAQs

What type of overdrive sound does the DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive produce?: The DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive emulates the smooth, natural character of an overdriven tube amp, preserving your guitar's distinct tone while adding warmth and depth.
How does the DigiTech Bad Monkey differ from a standard Tube Screamer?: Unlike a standard Tube Screamer, the Bad Monkey includes separate bass and treble controls, allowing for more precise tonal shaping and versatility in achieving your desired sound.
Can the DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive be used with both solid-state and tube amps?: Yes, the Bad Monkey is designed to work well with both solid-state and tube amplifiers, enhancing their natural tone with its smooth overdrive characteristics.
Does the DigiTech Bad Monkey work well with bass guitars?: The DigiTech Bad Monkey is primarily designed for electric guitars, but its extended EQ controls can allow bass players to achieve a desirable overdrive tone as well.
What power supply does the DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive require?: The DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is commonly used for guitar pedals.

Videos

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intheblues

Digitech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive

intheblues

Digitech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive guitar effects pedal demo COOL CHEAP PEDAL!

gearmanndude

The Digitech BAD MONKEY Pedal Hype | What Josh Scott ISN'T telling you... And what HE ACTUALLY IS...

Pat Posse

DIGITECH BAD MONKEY vs IBANEZ TUBE SCREAMER - SHOOTOUT and BLIND TEST. WHAT IS BETTER?

Leon Brown Music

REVIEW DIGITECH BAD MONKEY TUBE OVERDRIVE PEDAL - MUSIX BOX DEMO

Musix Box

Best budget screamer?! Digitech Bad Monkey Vs Behringer Tube Overdrive TO100

Budget Pedal Chap

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Warm, tube screamer-like sound with unique character
Excellent value for money compared to similar pedals
Natural and amp-like overdrive quality
Separate bass and treble EQ controls for tone shaping
Versatile, can be used as a booster or standalone overdrive
Mixer output with cab simulation for direct recording
Durable construction, reliable for long-term use
Works well with other overdrive pedals for layered tones
Can be used with both guitar and bass effectively
Retains clarity at high volumes without clipping

CONS

Not enough distortion for heavier music genres
Less desirable for those seeking a true Tube Screamer clone
Gain spectrum limited, not ideal for very low or high gain needs
Tone controls may not work as expected for some users
Battery connector issues reported by some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive.

Comparisons

0 0

The Wampler Triumph pedal, based on the Bad Monkey circuit but with a three-band EQ, is a recommended alternative at $99 new.
Source
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The MXR M77 Overdrive is noted for a similar functionality to the Bad Monkey, featuring a boost button and a 100Hz knob, priced new at $100.
Source
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The MXR Super Badass Modified OD combines SD-1 and TS-9 features, offering low and high controls, painted in brass like a Marshall panel.
Source
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Owners mention the Bad Monkey is better for bass compared to standard Tube Screamers, as it retains low-end frequencies with its EQ controls.
Source
0 0

The Bad Monkey really shines on bass, providing unique tonal characteristics compared to its performance on guitar.
Source
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The Bad Monkey is likened to a DOD Juicebox clone, essentially a Tube Screamer with added features.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

Historical prices show the Bad Monkey selling for $30-$80 before hype inflated the cost, with some recent listings exceeding $200.
Source
0 0

Initially priced around $40, the pedal was known for offering shockingly great performance for its low cost, comparable to the $40 Arion Chorus.
Source
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Prices have surged to $300+, although some owners feel the pedal is sentimentally invaluable, outweighing monetary offers.
Source

Use cases and applications

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Connecting the cab sim output to the input can turn the Bad Monkey into a tone generator/theremin, with knobs adjusting pitch.
Source
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Works well with humbuckers and tube amps, as some owners noted it performs best in these setups for optimal sound quality.
Source
0 0

The pedal can emulate a $5000 sound in a mix, making it a versatile tool for various musical styles.
Source

Features and functionality

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The Bad Monkey includes a mixer out with a basic speaker simulation, still active when the pedal is bypassed, suitable for direct PA connections.
Source
0 0

The Bad Monkey includes a post-drive bass control, distinguishing it from typical Tube Screamer clones.
Source

User experience

0 0

Some owners have had the Bad Monkey since 2007, indicating long-term usage and familiarity, but have grown tired of its sound over time.
Source
0 0

Some users note the pedal's flimsy build quality, leading to breakage over time.
Source

Build quality

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The pedal's metal enclosure is solid, though older Digitech models had weaker PCB-mounted knobs and tiny switches compared to brands like Boss or MXR.
Source

Critic Reviews

Review: DigiTech Bad Monkey | Guitar Gear

guitargear.org

The DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive impresses with its smooth, subtle distortion and versatile EQ controls, setting it apart from the classic Tube Screamer. Built like a tank, it delivers excellent sound quality at a budget-friendly price, making it a surprising gem for those willing to experiment. While it may not replace the Tube Screamer for gritty blues, its sensitivity to attack and volume makes it a standout for dynamic playing. At just $50, it's a must-try for guitarists seeking quality tone without the hefty price tag.

positive

Full Review

Digitech Bad Monkey | Maxwell's Pedal Reviews

wordpress.com

The DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive is a budget-friendly alternative to the Ibanez Tubescreamer, delivering a decent mild creamy overdrive ideal for blues and classic rock. However, it lacks the grit needed for harder genres like metal. While the pedal is noted for its durability, surviving significant abuse over the years, issues like finicky switching and corroded jacks have been reported. Though it may not hold up for gigging, it's praised as a reliable practice pedal. Its affordability makes it a worthwhile option for those seeking a basic overdrive on a budget, despite being possibly discontinued.

neutral

Full Review

Digitech Bad Monkey Overdrive: Cheap but not Cheap Sounding | guitar TONE OVERLOAD

guitartoneoverload.com

The DigiTech Bad Monkey Tube Overdrive is a wallet-friendly pedal that punches above its weight, offering versatility akin to pricier models. It shines with a two-band EQ, allowing for precise tonal adjustments—an edge over many competitors. While it may not match the smoothness of higher-end options like the Analogman TS9, its ability to complement and boost other pedals, coupled with a handy mixer output, makes it a formidable contender. This pedal is a remarkable bargain for those seeking quality overdrive without breaking the bank.

positive

Full Review

Digtech Bad Monkey | Review - Guitar Interactive Magazine

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

Full Review

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 31 Reviews and 135 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

alexandre_gamelas

about 10 years ago

My favourite piece

I'm using the Bad Monkey as my low drive option. It has a really bassy sound perfect for a low blues driver, but if you push that High knob it will give you all the sharpness you need for the more dynamic sounds.

Having the option to control the low and the high frequencies independently really gives you a whole lot of new options and routes for your sounds and vibes.

The only thing I would change about this pedal is the gain spectrum. The regular overdrive gain level is PERFECT however it really does not behave well on a low gain level (crunchy like sound) it also caps up pretty soon unlike the OCD OD for example.

jimmarchi1

41029

10 years ago about 10 years ago

nice, thorough review

nathanherd

152

about 10 years ago

For when you want a tube screamer in a budget-conscious world

I sat down in the store with this pedal and the TS-9. The difference is small, but the difference in price sealed the deal. A $70 Tube Screamer vs this bad boy for a cool $39.99. You get that essential electric blues sound. SRV to John Mayer to Joe Bonamassa to Albert King, a tube screamer/overdrive sound is essential, and this pedal delivers. Even at high volumes, it doesn't clip (not that I noticed anyway). Love it love it love it. I almost always have it on now when I play.

alexander_gabor_szok...

101

over 6 years ago

Bonkers how well this thing works for the price...

I'm amazed all the time. I pretty much never turn it off because with totally neutral settings, it just tightens up the mid range, makes cleans meaty without taking away the shimmer, and sures up the mids in distorted rhythms and leads.

Roles:

Guitarist Music Producer

Genres:

Alternative rock Progressive rock Psychedelic rock

pinosilvestre

113

over 9 years ago

The cheapest, the trashiest

This pedal is CRAZY. It was dirty cheap when my guitarist got it, eventually it made its way to my board. I personally use it to boost my solos, super high gain and highs. It gives my bass a Lemmy-ish tone, with a lot of sustain and feedback. It's crazy how good it sounds considering the price tag. It's also very well built, and sometimes I use the extra mixer output to run the bass through a guitar amp and basically annoy everyone and everything

jimmarchi1

41029

9 years ago over 9 years ago

the bad monkey is analog, its a TS9 tubesceamer circuit with 2 band tone controls.... don't let the name 'digitech' fool you, Digitech is really DOD, when the old DOD line stopped Digitech went on making a handful of DOD's best sellers. Now that DOD is abck you would think the analog digitech pedals would get the DOD brandname again, but they still have the digitech logo, go figure.

pinosilvestre

113

9 years ago over 9 years ago

no way! I don't wanna sound snob but that's actually a great news, also thanks for all the infos, gonna forward em to my guitarist who told me it was digital!

jimmarchi1

41029

9 years ago over 9 years ago

nope, nope.... its green to show us its tubescreamer DNA.

yessicayeti

144

almost 11 years ago

Best Buy!

My most favourite TS-Style Overdrive. Absolute recommendation. Better than the original. The bass and treble knobs makes it sooo versatile. My MXR M77 Custom Badass Modified O.D. has more drive. If you don't need more drive than a TS usally has, get one and get lucky!

jimmarchi1

41029

11 years ago almost 11 years ago

the M77 is more of a Boss SD-1. Apples and apples comparis as the SD-1 is very similar to a TS, but it pushes a smidge more apparent gain due to a different mid emphasis and it also has asymetrical clipping with 3 diodes in the feedback loop instead of the Ibanez matched pair.

fernando_alves

116

over 10 years ago

Great cost-benefit

Its a cheap pedal that fit extremely well if you want to play blues and even rock. This pedal has a voice that is similar to the tube screamer. I`m currently using it as a level booster to my TS9DX.

eduardo_bahia

302

almost 11 years ago

Everybody's got something to hide except my and my monkey

What's small, green, ugly as hell, but works perfectly as a gain booster to push my drives and distortions? The Bad Monkey of course. The best bang for the buck pedal in my set. Besides, if your'e using batteries instead of a dc power unit, it will sound even more sweet. The mixer output is a great feature too, not only to send the signal directly to a mixer but to make the monkey behave more like a transparent drive with absolutely no buzz. Just loving it!

Roles:

Guitarist Composer Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Pop

davepepper

640

5 years ago about 5 years ago

Interesting comment about the battery sounding better. Battery connector on mine was bad and it wouldn't work atall with a 9V P/S. But I just tried it with an old 9V 10W P/S from an Alesis Microverb 3 and it came back to life and sounds awesome. Wonder if they are working on the edge of the capacity of a 9V power supply.

hollywoodcrash

184

about 10 years ago

Right amount of tube overdrive, easily controllable.

This pedal is well designed, simple to change the battery, the controls work and actually do influence the quality and quantity of tube overdrive you get. Sturdy construction, solid sound, good price=good pedal.

Roles:

Guitarist Drummer Composer

Genres:

Rock Alternative rock Indie rock

noah_van_meekeren

almost 10 years ago

Great pedal

I've bought the pedal because I was looking for the sound of a Ibanez Tube Screamer, but I didn't have the money to buy one. The Bad Monkey is a great, cheap alternative for the Tube Screamer. Of course, the Tube Screamer sounds slightly better, but the price-quality of the Bad Monkey pedal is phenomenal!

leiaherne7

263

over 11 years ago

Great Value!

This pedal was used more as a boost for my Big Muff but I can say that this pedal has served me very well and for the ridiculously cheap price you really can not beat it.