Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (24)
$199.99 $169.99 $30.00 · All time low
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$199.99 $169.99 $30.00 · All time low
Amazon
4.5 (52)
$199.99 $169.99 $30.00 · All time low
Reverb
5.0 (15)
$169.99 New
$84.00 Used
Thomann
4.8 (21)
$181.00

Average Price: $168

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$50

$176+

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Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Friedman Smallbox Overdrive". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the legendary Friedman Small Box amp tone right onto your pedalboard with the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive. This compact powerhouse captures the award-winning, harmonically rich sound of the revered Small Box amplifier in a pedal form, offering guitarists the ability to explore everything from vintage Plexi warmth to modern high-gain intensity. The pedal's intuitive control layout mirrors that of the amplifier, making it simple to dial in the perfect tone for your style.

The Smallbox Overdrive is designed with a 2-way gain structure switch, providing a seamless transition between a gritty, low-gain boost and searing high-gain distortion. This pedal responds dynamically to your playing, ensuring that every nuance of your performance is preserved. Its comprehensive EQ section, featuring Bass, Mid, Treble, and Presence controls, offers precise tone shaping, so you can tailor your sound for any musical context.

Whether you're pushing a clean amp into overdrive or adding that final touch to an already dirty setup, the Smallbox Overdrive integrates effortlessly into any rig. With true bypass switching, your signal remains untouched when the pedal is disengaged, preserving your tone's integrity. Built to last and powered between 9-18V DC, this American-made pedal is a testament to Friedman's commitment to quality and tone.

Key Features:

  • Overdrive/distortion pedal based on the Small Box amplifier
  • 2-way gain structure switch for versatile tonal options
  • Amp-like 3-band EQ and Presence control
  • Responds dynamically to guitar controls and picking nuances
  • True bypass switching
  • Powered by 9-18V DC (power supply not included)
  • Made in the USA

Product specs

Pedal Type Overdrive
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4" (instrument)
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
True Bypass Yes
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Height 1.6"
Width 2.5"
Depth 4.72"
Weight .62 lbs.

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal?

The Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal delivers a classic British-style overdrive, emulating the tone of a cranked tube amp with rich harmonics and dynamic response. It is designed to capture the essence of the Friedman Small Box amplifier.

Is the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal is ideal for live performances, providing a robust and dynamic overdrive tone that cuts through the mix. Its true bypass design ensures no signal loss when the pedal is disengaged.

Can the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal be powered by a battery?

No, the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It does not support battery operation.

Does the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?

Yes, the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive is designed to work effectively with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, offering a versatile overdrive tone that complements various guitar types.

How does the Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal differ from other overdrive pedals?

The Friedman Smallbox Overdrive pedal stands out with its ability to replicate the signature Friedman amp tone, offering a more authentic British-style overdrive with excellent touch sensitivity and dynamic range compared to standard overdrive pedals.

Shawn Tubbs

Shawn Tubbs

Friedman SmallBox Overdrive Pedal

Video thumbnail for Friedman SmallBox Overdrive Pedal by Shawn Tubbs

Friedman SmallBox Overdrive Pedal

Shawn Tubbs

Shawn Tubbs

Video thumbnail for Friedman Smallbox Overdrive Pedal Demo by Six String Alliance (Six String Alliance)

Friedman Smallbox Overdrive Pedal Demo

Six String Alliance (Six String Alliance)

Six String Alliance (Six String Alliance)

Video thumbnail for Friedman Smallbox Overdrive | Demo by Musik Produktiv

Friedman Smallbox Overdrive | Demo

Musik Produktiv

Musik Produktiv

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers classic low-mid gain Plexi tones well

  • Versatile: from gentle breakup to high gain sounds

  • Works great with various pickup types (single coils, humbuckers, P-90s)

  • Built like a tank, durable construction

  • Can improve any amp's sound, "like adding gravy on mashed potatoes"

  • Does not produce a bad sound, according to users

  • Mimics the sound of a full-blown Friedman amplifier closely

  • Has a gain switch for lower to higher gain adjustments

CONS

  • Lacks the "chug" and high gain some users expect

  • Tone described as "boxy" by some, lacking openness and detail

  • May disappoint if used as a standalone pedal for high gain needs

  • Some users found alternatives with more gain on tap

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Friedman Smallbox Overdrive.

Features and functionality

  • Earlier models may have a factory error with the high gain switch installed backwards, affecting expected gain behavior.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The pedal provides a crunch when fed into a clean amp and achieves high gain when used with a dirty gain amp.

    Source
  • Users suggest the Smallbox for more distortion needs, while the Dirty Shirley is preferred for heavier overdrive with versatility, indicating distinct tonal applications.

    Source
  • Some users express surprise that the Smallbox doesn't receive as much attention as the BE-OD, despite its capability for overdrive to medium distortion.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Works effectively as a foundation pedal, similar to a '70s Marshall JMP, providing authentic AC/DC tones.

    Source
  • For those playing Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, the Smallbox is recommended for its ability to deliver Marshally/Plexi tones effectively.

    Source
  • The pedal is praised for delivering classic tones, especially when boosted with a Tumnus pedal.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • To achieve higher gain, owners suggest stacking a dirt pedal, like the Boss SD-1, into the Friedman Smallbox.

    Source
  • An owner plans to pair the Smallbox with an MXR Super Badass Distortion pedal to enhance its kick.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users report better results with real tube amplifiers compared to virtual amplifiers when seeking higher gain tones.

    Source
  • Owners describe the Dirty Shirley as a versatile pedal that can fit well on any pedalboard, suggesting it covers a wide range of tonal needs.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the pedal's transparency, noting it doesn't muddy their tone and complements a Boss Katana 100 amp effectively.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Friedman Small Box Overdrive Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

Friedman's Smallbox Overdrive successfully channels the coveted cranked-plexi tones in a compact pedal format. Users rave about its robust build quality and intuitive playability, making it a joy to use. While the control layout is less straightforward than a traditional amp, the pedal compensates with its rich, dynamic sound that excels in both crunch and saturated lead tones. It captures the essence of a Marshall in a box, offering a delightful variety of tones that can inspire any player. Despite minor quirks in control arrangement, the overall impression is that this pedal is a worthy addition to any guitarist's rig. If you're after authentic Marshall tones, the Smallbox is a no-brainer.

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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 Friedman Smallbox Overdrive, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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kw98

kw98

Gear IQ 692

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