Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $282
High-end/Boutique
$50
$176+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Jackson Audio The Optimist". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Jackson Audio The Optimist is not your typical overdrive pedal. This piece of musical wizardry, designed in partnership with Grammy-nominated guitarist Cory Wong, takes the classic overdrive sound to a new level.
Forget about any other "klone" you've heard of, The Optimist is all about delivering the most genuine, transparent tone while offering a unique touch of its own. It seamlessly retains the standard volume, tone, and gain controls, but with an added twist. Experience the versatility of two distinctive EQ modes, OD 1 and OD 2, offering a natural-sounding overdrive and a flat-frequency overdrive respectively.
The Optimist doesn't stop there. Equipped with a 3-band EQ based on the coveted Baxandall EQ, it allows you to fine-tune your sound to perfection, accentuating the frequencies most associated with single-coil pickups. What's more, thanks to optional MIDI control, you can explore an infinite range of tonal possibilities.
This pedal isn't just for the veterans. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, The Optimist is a surefire way to elevate your tone game without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- Modern take on a legendary overdrive pedal
- Designed in collaboration with Grammy-nominated guitarist Cory Wong
- Standard controls for volume, tone, and gain
- 2 unique EQ modes: OD 1 (natural, transparent tone with midrange bump) and OD 2 (flat-frequency overdrive)
- Active bypassable 3-band Baxandall-inspired EQ with +/-12dB boost and cut
- Optional MIDI control over all functions
- Features germanium diodes for the best possible tone
- EQ modes can be used independently or together
- Ideal for both beginners and seasoned professionals
Product specs
| Brand | Jackson Audio |
| Model | The Optimist Cory Wong Signature Overdrive |
| Finish | Blue |
| Year | 2022 - 2025 |
| Categories | Overdrive and Boost Pedals |
| Pedal Format | Standard |
FAQs
-
What is the primary function of the Jackson Audio The Optimist pedal?
-
The Jackson Audio The Optimist is a dual overdrive and EQ pedal designed to provide versatile overdrive tones and precise EQ control, making it ideal for guitarists seeking dynamic sound shaping.
-
How does the EQ section of The Optimist pedal enhance the guitar tone?
-
The Optimist features a Baxandall EQ, known for its smooth and musical tone shaping, allowing guitarists to fine-tune their sound with precision for various musical styles.
-
Can the Jackson Audio The Optimist be used with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?
-
Yes, The Optimist is designed to work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, offering versatile overdrive tones suitable for different guitar types.
-
Does the Jackson Audio The Optimist pedal require a specific power supply?
-
The Optimist requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is typical for most guitar pedals, ensuring compatibility with common pedalboard setups.
-
Is the Jackson Audio The Optimist suitable for live performances?
-
Yes, The Optimist is well-suited for live performances, offering robust construction and reliable performance, making it a great choice for gigging musicians.
Videos
JHS Pedals
What's in the Box? Ep. 1 (Source Audio/Jackson Audio Optimist)
Reviews
PROS
-
Dual overdrive with large gain sweep offers versatility
-
Integrated EQ saves space on pedalboard
-
Different drive modes (OD1 and OD2) for varied tones
-
Excellent for both rhythm and lead guitar playing
-
Enhances playing versatility; suitable for multiple music genres
-
Durable build quality, with improvements from previous models
-
MIDI functionality for on/off control adds convenience
-
Can replace multiple pedals, offering a compact solution
-
Works well with other pedals for tone stacking
CONS
-
Limited MIDI implementation; lacks presets and parameter control
-
Volume increase when engaging both drives may require adjustment
-
Channel two may be too bright for some users
-
Slight delay in effect engagement due to pedal design
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Jackson Audio The Optimist.
Features and functionality
Comparisons
-
The Optimist's OD1 is described as warm and flat, whereas OD2 is bright and thin, compared to the Golden Boy's versatile clipping and boost options.
Source -
The Golden Boy's Tube Screamer setting is reminiscent of the Optimist's OD1, but with more versatility due to additional settings.
Source -
Compared to Strymon Sunset, The Optimist offers less MIDI flexibility and fewer sound shaping options, yet includes a basic active EQ circuit.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Optimist OD1 is favored for rhythm with its warm sound, while OD2 adds subtle "hair" without coloring tone, ideal for clean Strat/Tele setups.
Source
User experience
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistGenre 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 Jackson Audio The Optimist, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation1 alternative for Jackson Audio The Optimist, curated by the Equipboard community.
$3,529.18
More Jackson Audio Overdrive Effects Pedals
Accessories & Related Items
Gear Guides
Most Popular Overdrive Effects Pedals
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
michaelGear IQ 42576
-