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Average Price: $46
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$80
$181+
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Description
Unleash the beast within your guitar tone with the DOD FX56 American Metal distortion pedal. Born in the late '80s and roaring through the '90s, this pedal is a testament to the era of high-gain, face-melting soundscapes. Originally crafted to rival the legendary Boss HM-2, the FX56 offers a unique sonic palette that is both powerful and versatile. It delivers a gritty, aggressive distortion that can cut through any mix, yet retains clarity and definition. Whether you're channeling classic metal riffs or pushing the boundaries of modern metalcore, the FX56 provides the tone and punch you need.
With intuitive controls for level, tone, and gain, sculpting your sound is straightforward, allowing you to focus on creativity rather than complexity. The rugged design of the FX56 ensures it withstands the rigors of live performances and touring, making it a reliable companion for any guitarist.
Key Features:
- High gain distortion designed to compete with leading heavy metal pedals
- Simple control layout: Level, Tone, and Gain knobs for easy sound shaping
- Rugged construction for durability on stage and in the studio
- Classic late '80s to mid '90s production with a distinct sonic character
Product specs
| Brand | DOD |
| Model | FX56 American Metal |
| Finish | Purple |
| Year | 1984 - 1990 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Distortion Pedals |
FAQs
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What kind of distortion tones can I expect from the DOD FX56 American Metal pedal?
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The DOD FX56 American Metal pedal delivers aggressive, high-gain distortion tones ideal for heavy metal and hard rock. It offers a thick, saturated sound with a pronounced mid-range, making it well-suited for cutting through dense mixes.
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Is the DOD FX56 American Metal pedal suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the DOD FX56 American Metal pedal is suitable for live performances, providing robust and consistent distortion tones that can effectively cut through a band's mix. Its durable construction also ensures reliability on stage.
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Can the DOD FX56 American Metal pedal be used with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?
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Yes, the DOD FX56 American Metal pedal works well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, delivering powerful distortion tones while preserving the unique characteristics of each pickup type.
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Does the DOD FX56 American Metal pedal require a specific power supply?
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The DOD FX56 American Metal pedal typically requires a 9V DC power supply or a 9V battery for operation, making it compatible with most standard pedalboard power setups.
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How does the DOD FX56 American Metal compare to other DOD distortion pedals?
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The DOD FX56 American Metal pedal is specifically designed for heavier, high-gain distortion compared to other DOD distortion pedals, which may offer different tonal characteristics and gain ranges suitable for various music styles.
Videos
TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow
DOD FX56 American Metal
Reviews
PROS
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Affordable, good for those on a tight budget
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Provides a distinct, heavy distortion sound
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Suitable for occasional metal sound needs
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Operable with 9v battery for convenience
CONS
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Not comparable to higher-end pedals like Tubescreamer or Boss
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Durability issues, especially with older units
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Sound quality may not meet all users' standards
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Can produce undesirable noise
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Problems with input/output jacks reported
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about DOD FX56 American Metal.
Comparisons
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The FX56 is often likened to the Boss HM-2, suggesting a similar aggressive, heavy tone, yet it can produce a rubbery fuzz, more aligned with stoner doom.
Source
User experience
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Owners mention the FX56 can lose parts over time, such as the battery cover and knob covers, indicating potential wear issues with prolonged use.
Source
3.0 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 9 Ratings
312
Meh
This thing was not a tubescreamer or a boss... if I were being critical I’d say it was one of the worst distortion pedals I ever used. But it was cheaper than the others I mentioned and when you’re 14 yrs old birthday money from grandma didn’t go that far in the 80s.
41029
who didn't buy an fx55 or a 55b supra distortion out of the stolen, err I mean 'used' case at bob's music.... when all you've got is saved up lunch money and its between the boss and the dod? DOD! this is a bad example, like the supra, but some of those oddball dod pedals were pretty cool as I recall.
281
All the Metal I need
That being said, on the very rare occasion i want (?) a metal sound, this does a reasonable attempt. Not having any of the guitars or amps more suited for metal, this is perfect for making my wife wanna scream. Ha Ha. Pin style power jack. 9v battery.
Artist usage
Add artist
According to this article written by a fan,Pajo uses a DOD American Metal playing with Slint and he shows his settings
Clay Parton uses the DOD FX56 American Metal pedal, as evidenced by a post on Instagram by user @thisisduster. The post includes a caption stating, "‘spacematic fuzz’ - a dod american metal (probably only used on keyboards and bass)," and it mentions these pedals were used for the "fuzz sound on stratosphere." An image accompanying the post shows the pedal painted green with "FUZZ" painted on it.
In this still of an Instagram story posted on January 26th 2023 on the White Denim Insta account we see James' pedalboard out. The pedal is on the lower right. We can hear James saying: He's ready for the road! Story on Youtube https://youtube.com/shorts/m3xJ0qeQJ_c?feature=share
Album Usage
The DOD FX56 American Metal 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 DOD FX56 American Metal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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