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Description

The Maxon D&S II is a must-have distortion pedal for guitarists seeking to infuse their sound with vintage warmth and modern versatility. This pedal, originating from the late 1970s, has been faithfully reissued to deliver the same iconic tones that made it a favorite among guitarists. Its simple yet effective design offers a wide range of distortion tones, from subtle overdrive to aggressive fuzz, making it suitable for a variety of music genres.

At the heart of the D&S II is the JRC4558 op-amp, renowned for its smooth, natural-sounding overdrive. This component helps deliver the pedal's signature sound, which is characterized by its rich harmonic content and dynamic response. The D&S II's straightforward control layout features knobs for Level, Tone, and Distortion, allowing players to quickly dial in their desired sound with ease.

The pedal's robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular gigging, while its true bypass switching means your tone remains uncolored when the pedal is disengaged. Whether you're looking to recreate classic rock tones or explore new sonic landscapes, the Maxon D&S II offers reliable performance and inspiring sound quality.

Key Features:

  • Authentic reissue of the original late 1970s design
  • JRC4558 op-amp for smooth, natural distortion
  • Simple control layout with Level, Tone, and Distortion knobs
  • True bypass switching for uncolored tone
  • Durable construction suitable for live performance
  • Wide range of distortion tones, from overdrive to fuzz

Product specs

Brand Maxon
Model D&S II
Year 1970s
Made In Japan
Categories Distortion Pedals, Overdrive and Boost Pedals

FAQs

What type of distortion does the Maxon D&S II produce?

The Maxon D&S II offers a smooth, vintage-style distortion reminiscent of classic 1970s rock tones. It provides a warm, dynamic range that is ideal for both rhythm and lead guitar parts.

Is the Maxon D&S II suitable for both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Maxon D&S II can be used with both guitar and bass, delivering a rich and full distortion tone that enhances the low-end frequencies for bass players.

How does the Maxon D&S II differ from other distortion pedals?

The Maxon D&S II is known for its vintage Japanese design and unique tonal characteristics, offering a distinct smoothness and clarity that sets it apart from more aggressive modern distortion pedals.

Does the Maxon D&S II pedal work well with tube amplifiers?

Yes, the Maxon D&S II pairs exceptionally well with tube amplifiers, enhancing their natural warmth and providing a creamy distortion that complements the amp's tonal characteristics.

What power supply does the Maxon D&S II require?

The Maxon D&S II typically requires a standard 9V battery or a compatible 9V DC power adapter for operation, making it easy to integrate into most pedalboards.

Clifton Wright

Clifton Wright

Maxon D&S II OD-802 with vintage Stratocaster

Video thumbnail for Maxon D&S II OD-802 with vintage Stratocaster by Clifton Wright

Maxon D&S II OD-802 with vintage Stratocaster

Clifton Wright

Clifton Wright

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Maxon D&S II.

Comparisons

  • The Maxon D&S II is likened to a Big Muff, but with a corrected tone circuit that retains low end and reduces volume loss.

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  • The D&S II's distortion is described as coarse and square, with some users noting a similarity to the Big Muff V3 from 1976.

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Features and functionality

  • The D&S II uses quieter transistors, leading to a lower noise floor compared to the original Big Muff design.

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  • The original Maxon D&S II lacks an LED indicator and uses a latching switch, pre-dating JFET switching technology found in later models.

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User experience

  • A 1976 D&S with c828 transistors reportedly sounds significantly larger than a 1979 model.

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  • Owners have successfully resolved signal issues by replacing the footswitch, emphasizing the importance of DIY skills in maintaining vintage models.

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Value and pricing

  • Older Maxon D&S pedals can be found for $80-100, especially if cosmetically worn, offering great value according to some owners.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The Maxon D&S II can have issues with its DPDT footswitch, which may require replacement due to internal mechanical failures over time.

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Build quality

  • Older versions of the D&S II feature a latching footswitch with a distinct "clunk" sound, indicating a robust but potentially wear-prone design.

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