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Average Price: $70

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$80

$181+

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Description

The DOD FX56-B Super American Metal distortion pedal is a staple for guitarists seeking to channel the raw energy and power of heavy metal. Designed for those who crave a high-gain, aggressive sound, this pedal delivers a distinctive, gritty tone that can cut through any mix. Perfectly suited for both stage performances and studio sessions, the FX56-B brings a classic distortion character that is both punchy and dynamic. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of metal genres, from thrash to doom.

The pedal features a straightforward three-knob layout for Gain, Tone, and Level, allowing you to easily dial in your desired sound. The Gain control offers a broad range of distortion, from a subtle crunch to a saturated roar, while the Tone knob ensures your sound remains crisp and clear, with adjustments available to either brighten or darken your tone. This pedal is also built with rugged construction, ensuring it withstands the rigors of touring and frequent use. Whether you're practicing at home or shredding on stage, the FX56-B is ready to deliver.

Key Features:

  • High-gain distortion tailored for heavy metal genres
  • Three-knob layout: Gain, Tone, and Level for easy sound adjustments
  • Durable construction for reliable performance
  • Provides a full spectrum of distortion, from light crunch to massive saturation
  • Ideal for both live performances and studio recordings

Product specs

Brand DOD
Model FX56-B Super American Metal
Finish Pink
Year 1990 - 1994
Categories Distortion Pedals
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What type of music is the DOD FX56-B Super American Metal distortion pedal best suited for?

The DOD FX56-B Super American Metal is designed to deliver high-gain distortion perfect for heavy metal and hard rock genres, offering aggressive tones and sustain.

Does the DOD FX56-B work well with both tube and solid-state amplifiers?

Yes, the DOD FX56-B Super American Metal is compatible with both tube and solid-state amplifiers, providing consistent performance and powerful distortion tones.

How does the DOD FX56-B Super American Metal compare to other distortion pedals?

The DOD FX56-B offers a unique high-gain distortion with a focus on metal tones, setting it apart from other pedals by delivering a distinct, aggressive sound signature ideal for metal enthusiasts.

What power supply does the DOD FX56-B Super American Metal require?

The DOD FX56-B Super American Metal can be powered by a standard 9-volt battery or a compatible 9V DC power adapter for extended use.

Is the DOD FX56-B Super American Metal suitable for beginners?

While the DOD FX56-B is user-friendly, its high-gain distortion is best appreciated by players familiar with heavy metal tones, making it more suitable for intermediate to advanced guitarists.

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

DOD FX56-B Super American Metal

Video thumbnail for DOD FX56-B Super American Metal by TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

DOD FX56-B Super American Metal

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Video thumbnail for Its another METAL-OFF...Boss HM-2 vs DOD FX56-B Super American Metal by TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Its another METAL-OFF...Boss HM-2 vs DOD FX56-B Super American Metal

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Video thumbnail for DOD Super American Metal FX56-B vs. Boss HM-2 by HM2 CULT

DOD Super American Metal FX56-B vs. Boss HM-2

HM2 CULT

HM2 CULT

Video thumbnail for DOD FX56-B Super American Metal by Jim Crye

DOD FX56-B Super American Metal

Jim Crye

Jim Crye

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional for achieving Trap Them and doom metal sounds

  • Closest alternative to the Boss HM-2 with a more affordable price

  • Dual EQ circuit enhances mid and treble response

  • Offers crisp highs and fat low-end crunch

  • Works well with digital effects pedals, with careful volume adjustment

  • Presence control effectively manages 1khz and 1.2khz frequencies

  • Bass control focused at 800hz for fuller sound

CONS

  • Lower distortion settings underperform in some rigs

  • Volume oscillation past 3 o'clock on the level knob

  • Distortion control lacks effectiveness between 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock settings

  • Can challenge digital effects pedals at high volume settings without careful adjustment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about DOD FX56-B Super American Metal.

Features and functionality

  • The DOD FX56-B can be used in a feedback loop to control pitch/volume/timbre, creating unique drone effects when paired with modulation pedals.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The FX56-B offers significantly more gain than the Boss HM-2 and HM-3, adding a more aggressive distortion option for users.

    Source
  • The FX56-B is compared to a Boss DS-1 and SD-1; the latter is used for gain stacking, enhancing the learning experience on effect order.

    Source
  • A former owner intended to purchase a Boss DS-1 but opted for the FX56-B due to availability, later finding it heavier and more aggressive.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Works effectively for shoegaze music by using low gain and specific EQ settings, providing a subtle dirt layer before reverb and delay effects.

    Source
  • Guitarists report successful use with bass by blending a clean signal for a balanced low-end and high-mid fuzz.

    Source
  • Some users initially purchased the FX56-B due to its aggressive nature, later utilizing it for its unique fuzz-like qualities.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Consider reaching out to experienced modders for potential enhancements to the pedal, such as improved EQ capabilities or alternative housing and switching systems.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners describe the FX56-B as producing a "rubbery fuzz tone" when maxed out, which is more akin to stoner doom than classic metal.

    Source
  • After long-term use, some find the pedal lacks a traditional metal sound, aligning it more with fuzz-centric genres.

    Source

Build quality

  • Over time, users report missing battery covers and knob covers, indicating potential durability issues with these components.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Matt Pike uses DOD FX56-B Super American Metal

Matt Pike

Guitarist

Sleep

...
Verified via Photo

In an interview, Matt Pike mentions using a DOD digital delay during Sleep's early days, suggesting it could be the DOD FX56-B Super American Metal. YouTube link

See how Bootsy Collins uses DOD FX56-B Super American Metal

Bootsy Collins

Singer, Bassist

Funkadelic

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Bootsy Collins Tours His Incredible Home Studio 'The Boot Cave'" by Reverb on YouTube, at the 27:10 mark, a DOD FX56-B Super American Metal Distortion pedal can be clearly seen positioned on top of a rack in Bootsy Collins' studio.

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-B Super American Metal, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for DOD FX56-B Super American Metal, curated by the Equipboard community.

Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal

$109.00

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

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