Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $146
Standard/Professional
$80
$181+
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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
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What type of music genres is the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion best suited for?
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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.
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Does the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion have true bypass switching?
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Yes, the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion features true bypass switching, ensuring that your guitar signal remains unaffected when the pedal is turned off.
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What kind of power supply does the Maxon SD-9 require?
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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.
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Can the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion be used with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?
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Yes, the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion sounds great with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, providing clarity and punch across different pickup types.
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How does the tone control on the Maxon SD-9 Sonic Distortion work?
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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.
Videos
Godlyke Inc.
OZ NOY MAXON SD-9 SONIC DISTORTION DEMO - GODLYKE, INC.
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent bass response
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Responds well to guitar volume adjustments
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Pairs nicely with specific speakers and tube amps
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Capable of producing classic 80s distortion tones
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Praised by notable musicians (e.g., Scott Henderson, Mike Landau)
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Stacks well with other pedals
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Maintains clarity at lower volume levels
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Provides sustain for days
CONS
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Highs can become harsh if not carefully managed
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Not universally compatible with all pickups and amps
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Considered a "one trick pony" by some users
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Limited versatility compared to some other distortion pedals
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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
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The SD9 with low gain settings can mimic a Tubescreamer but offers significantly more gain, making it versatile for various styles.
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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.
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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.
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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
User experience
Value and pricing
Mods and upgrades
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Aion Electronics offers a kit called "Meteor," which replicates the SD-9 circuit and may be available pre-built on platforms like Reverb.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings
323
Legend of tone
Preferred by Scott Henderson and Mike Landau... no more comments.
Artist usage
Add artist
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.
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.
Similar
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