Pricing and availability

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

Amazon
4.4 (56)
$148.95
Reverb
5.0 (9)
$155.63 New
$119.42 Used
Thomann
4.6 (67)
$155.00

Average Price: $146

Standard/Professional

$80

$181+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Step into a world of rich, vintage distortion with the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion pedal. This iconic stompbox, originally crafted by the renowned Japanese manufacturer Maxon, is a beloved throwback to the '80s, delivering classic tones that guitarists have cherished for decades. Known for its unique ability to transition seamlessly from smooth overdrive to full-blown fuzz, the SD-9 is a versatile powerhouse that ensures your sound remains vibrant and dynamic, no matter the setting.

What sets the SD-9 apart is its visceral sensitivity to pick dynamics, allowing guitarists to express every nuance of their playing, from heavy rhythms to soaring leads. The intuitive control layout—comprising distortion, tone, and level knobs—empowers you to sculpt your sound with ease, whether you're aiming for a subtle bluesy crunch or a wall of sonic distortion madness.

Crafted with a true bypass circuit, this pedal ensures your tone remains pure and uncolored when the effect is disengaged. Plus, the SD-9's low-noise footswitch guarantees smooth operation, making it a reliable companion on any pedalboard. Easily powered by a 9V battery or a standard AC power supply, the SD-9’s design is both user-friendly and practical, featuring a no-tool battery compartment for swift changes on stage.

Key Features:

  • Classic distortion with a vintage harmonic voice
  • True bypass operation for uncolored tone
  • Low-noise footswitch for quiet activation
  • Distortion, tone, and level controls for versatile sound shaping
  • Visceral sensitivity to pick dynamics
  • Powered by 1 x 9V battery or standard AC supply
  • No-tool battery compartment for easy access
  • Made in Japan

Product specs

Pedal Type Distortion
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Bypass Switching True Bypass
EQ Tone Control
Controls Dist, Level
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Batteries 1 x 9V
Power Usage 6mA
Height 2.12"
Width 2.91"
Depth 4.88"
Weight 1.27 lbs.

FAQs

What type of music genres is the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion best suited for?

The Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion is versatile and works well for rock, metal, and blues, offering a punchy and clear distortion that retains low-end bass, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead guitar parts.

Does the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion have true bypass switching?

Yes, the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion features true bypass switching, ensuring that your guitar signal remains unaffected when the pedal is turned off.

What kind of power supply does the Maxon SD-9 require?

The Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately, or it can be powered by a 9V battery.

Can the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion be used with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?

Yes, the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion sounds great with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, providing clarity and punch across different pickup types.

How does the tone control on the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion work?

The tone control on the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion allows you to adjust the EQ, offering a range of tonal options from warm and smooth to bright and cutting, enabling you to shape your sound to fit various styles.

Godlyke Inc.

Godlyke Inc.

OZ NOY MAXON SD-9 SONIC DISTORTION DEMO - GODLYKE, INC.

Video thumbnail for OZ NOY MAXON SD-9 SONIC DISTORTION DEMO - GODLYKE, INC. by Godlyke Inc.

OZ NOY MAXON SD-9 SONIC DISTORTION DEMO - GODLYKE, INC.

Godlyke Inc.

Godlyke Inc.

Video thumbnail for Maxon SD9 Sonic Distortion by Godlyke Inc.

Maxon SD9 Sonic Distortion

Godlyke Inc.

Godlyke Inc.

Video thumbnail for Maxon SD-9 Jam by Mike Hermans

Maxon SD-9 Jam

Mike Hermans

Mike Hermans

Video thumbnail for A Modern Classic: Maxon SD9 | In-depth review by blackstratblues

A Modern Classic: Maxon SD9 | In-depth review

blackstratblues

blackstratblues

Video thumbnail for Vintage Maxon SD9 Sonic Distortion by Collin Littlejohn

Vintage Maxon SD9 Sonic Distortion

Collin Littlejohn

Collin Littlejohn

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent bass response

  • Responds well to guitar volume adjustments

  • Pairs nicely with specific speakers and tube amps

  • Capable of producing classic 80s distortion tones

  • Praised by notable musicians (e.g., Scott Henderson, Mike Landau)

  • Stacks well with other pedals

  • Maintains clarity at lower volume levels

  • Provides sustain for days

CONS

  • Highs can become harsh if not carefully managed

  • Not universally compatible with all pickups and amps

  • Considered a "one trick pony" by some users

  • Limited versatility compared to some other distortion pedals

  • Level knob maxes out at "unity gain," potentially limiting its potential

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion.

Comparisons

  • The SD9 with low gain settings can mimic a Tubescreamer but offers significantly more gain, making it versatile for various styles.

    Source
  • The Fender FDS-90 pedal reportedly uses the same circuit as the Maxon SD-9, offering a potential alternative for those seeking similar tonal characteristics.

    Source
  • The Maxon SD-9 shares some circuit similarities with the Boss DS-1, suggesting that pedals in the DS-1 lineage might deliver comparable sounds.

    Source
  • The SD9 is described as an "insanely bright Boss DS-1" but with a more responsive distortion knob, offering a lo-fi overdrive sound at zero distortion.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Boosting the SD9 with a Tubescreamer enhances its sound, creating a tight, crunchy tone that remains thick and chunky.

    Source
  • The SD9M features switches for a mid boost and extra gain, though some feel these modifications don't significantly enhance the pedal's core sound.

    Source

User experience

  • Older SD9 models feature the JRC4558 chip, which is different from the newer SD9M model, affecting the tonal character.

    Source
  • Owners report that the stock SD9 can have excessive treble, requiring the amp to be cranked high to balance its shrillness.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A well-used SD9 recently sold for $100 despite its condition, indicating strong demand and value retention for the older models.

    Source
  • The SD9 is considered rare, and a price of $90 is seen as a good deal by some users.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Aion Electronics offers a kit called "Meteor," which replicates the SD-9 circuit and may be available pre-built on platforms like Reverb.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's noted that the SD9 can excel for slide guitar, drawing positive comparisons to the MXR D+.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
kemilc

Legend of tone

Preferred by Scott Henderson and Mike Landau... no more comments.

macmorfi

May favorite classic 80s distortion

May favorite classic 80s distortion, I used like a boost for 80s style solos.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Eddie Martinez uses Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion

Eddie Martinez

Guitarist

The Distance

...
Verified via ThroBak

Mentioned on Martinez's ThroBak artist page.

Q: What effects do you currently use?

EM: I use a COT50 by Lovepedal, Vemuram JanRay, Dumkudo pedal, Maxxon Sonic Distortion, Wet (Reverb) Pedal, Line6 DL4 and a Vertex Fuzz pedal.

See how Matt Hyde uses Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion

Matt Hyde

Singer

Beastwars

...
Verified via Maxonfx

According to Maxon's website, Hyde uses the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion pedal.

See how Ernest Fardiyan Sjarif uses Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion

Ernest Fardiyan Sjarif

Guitarist

Cokelat

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Gear Talks Eps.3 with Cokelat Part.2" by The Golden Legacy on YouTube, Ernest Fardiyan Sjarif can be seen using the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion pedal.

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 Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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5 alternative and related items for Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion, curated by the Equipboard community.

Maxon Custom Shop SSD-9 Super Sonic Distortion
similar sound high-end alternative mod

A modded version of the Maxon SD-9, the SSD-9 features increased output and added true bypass switching.

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Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    luxiu
    luxiu

    Gear IQ 44626