Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$349.00
Amazon
4.0 (6)
$279.20
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$275.00 New
$158.00 Used
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$349.00

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.

JHS Pedals

JHS Pedals

What's in the Box? Ep. 1 (Source Audio/Jackson Audio Optimist)

Video thumbnail for What's in the Box? Ep. 1 (Source Audio/Jackson Audio Optimist) by JHS Pedals

What's in the Box? Ep. 1 (Source Audio/Jackson Audio Optimist)

JHS Pedals

JHS Pedals

Video thumbnail for Cory Wong Demos the Jackson Audio Optimist Overdrive by Sweetwater

Cory Wong Demos the Jackson Audio Optimist Overdrive

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for The Optimist by Jackson Audio and Cory Wong - Full Video by Jackson Audio

The Optimist by Jackson Audio and Cory Wong - Full Video

Jackson Audio

Jackson Audio

Video thumbnail for Klon Centaur vs. The Optimist by Jackson Audio by Jackson Audio

Klon Centaur vs. The Optimist by Jackson Audio

Jackson Audio

Jackson Audio

Video thumbnail for The Most Versatile Klon? Jackson Audio Optimist Dual Overdrive / EQ | Pedal Demo by Sunday Tone

The Most Versatile Klon? Jackson Audio Optimist Dual Overdrive / EQ | Pedal Demo

Sunday Tone

Sunday Tone

Video thumbnail for One overdrive that can do it all // Jackson Audio The Optimist Demo by Hunter Strasser

One overdrive that can do it all // Jackson Audio The Optimist Demo

Hunter Strasser

Hunter Strasser

Video thumbnail for Jackson Audio The Optimist (Cory Wong Signature OD) - Music & Demo by A. Barrero by Alberto Barrero

Jackson Audio The Optimist (Cory Wong Signature OD) - Music & Demo by A. Barrero

Alberto Barrero

Alberto Barrero

Video thumbnail for Jackson Audio Optimist // Cory Wong Signature Pedal // Guitar Pedal Demo by Edge of Breakup - Guitar, Amp & Pedal Demos

Jackson Audio Optimist // Cory Wong Signature Pedal // Guitar Pedal Demo

Edge of Breakup - Guitar, Amp & Pedal Demos

Edge of Breakup - Guitar, Amp & Pedal Demos

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

  • The EQ can be toggled by pressing both footswitches simultaneously, allowing for a flat setting with a slight mid bump to complement OD1.

    Source
  • The Optimist allows for MIDI control to toggle OD1, OD2, and EQ on/off, but lacks parameter adjustments, reducing its MIDI utility.

    Source

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

  • Some owners prefer the Warp version for aesthetics, while others note the availability of a classic JA look.

    Source
  • Some users expected a compressor inclusion given Cory Wong's signature, leading to disappointment with the pedal's actual features.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The price of $350 is considered high, especially given its limited MIDI features and comparison to competitors like the Broken Arrow/Golden Boy.

    Source

Critic Reviews

SSS Jackson Audio The Optimist Review - Cory Wong Overdrive

sixstringsensei.com

The Jackson Audio The Optimist shines as a versatile overdrive pedal, excelling in both light overdrive and semi-clean boost applications. With improved durability and MIDI functionality, it offers a modern approach to sound shaping. However, its second overdrive mode may be overly bright for some, and the unique switch engagement can introduce a slight delay that could frustrate players looking for immediate response. Overall, it’s a solid addition to any pedalboard, especially for those who appreciate its tonal flexibility, though it may not suit every guitarist's preference.

positive

Jackson Audio The Optimist Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

Jackson Audio's The Optimist delivers a versatile dual overdrive experience, merging Klon-inspired sounds with an active EQ for superb tonal control. Its compact design and intuitive controls make it a practical choice for gigging musicians. However, while it excels in crafting rich overdrive textures, it falls short on replicating the Klon’s iconic clean boost, which some users may find disappointing. Overall, it’s a solid option for those seeking a flexible and fun overdrive pedal that adapitates well to various playing styles.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Cory Wong uses Jackson Audio The Optimist

Cory Wong

Guitarist, Composer

Vulfpeck

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Cory Wong introduces his signature The Optimist overdrive pedal. He discusses the qualities of the pedal and gives a thorough demonstration.

See how Jake Cinninger uses Jackson Audio The Optimist

Jake Cinninger

Guitarist

Umphrey’s McGee

...
Verified via guitarworld

Cinninger mentioned the use of Jackson Audio The Optimist Cory Wong signature in the end-of-the-year Guitar World 2022 issue.

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 Jackson Audio The Optimist, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
johnm

johnm

Gear IQ 71

1 alternative for Jackson Audio The Optimist, curated by the Equipboard community.

More Jackson Audio Overdrive Effects Pedals

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    michael
    michael

    Gear IQ 42576