Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (14)
$105.99
Guitar Center
4.5 (14)
$105.99
Amazon
3.8 (34)
$105.99 New
$93.27 Used (Like New)
Reverb
5.0 (17)
$93.52 New
$44.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (41)
$105.99

Average Price: $93

Standard/Professional

$80

$181+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "MXR M115 Distortion III". 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

Unleash your creative prowess with the MXR M115 Distortion III, a pedal that has been meticulously engineered to deliver an array of tonal variations - from a gentle, melodious overdrive to a fierce, roaring distortion. Crafted with the choicest components, this pedal is capable of producing a natural, amp-like distortion that is versatile enough to cater to any playing style and yet transparent enough to let the unique character of your guitar shine through.

Staying true to the MXR legacy of creating durable and robust pedals, the Distortion III boasts a robust, die-cast chassis and a sturdy stomp switch. The large, easy-to-use control knobs make onstage tweaking a breeze, making this pedal a go-to choice for performers and musicians who value quality and reliability.

Key Features:

  • Proprietary circuit design that delivers rich harmonic content
  • Versatile tone range: from subtle overdrive to heavy distortion
  • Durable and robust: heavy-duty footswitch and a die-cast chassis
  • Easy-to-use control knobs: Output, Tone, and Distortion controls
  • Compact design: ideal for pedalboards
  • Reliable: Quality components and a sturdy metal housing
  • Indicator light for easy visibility

The MXR M115 Distortion III is more than just a pedal. It's a tool that can transform your tones, create intense solos, drive your amp's input, and even deliver realistic amp tones on its own. It's a modern-day classic that carries the MXR tradition of tough, rugged, and tonally tasty stomp boxes. Experience the power of the MXR Distortion III and take your playing to the next level.

Product specs

Pedal Type Distortion
Inputs 1 x Instrument
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Batteries 1 x 9V
Height 2.5"
Width 4.5"
Depth 5.5"
Weight 0.84 lbs.

FAQs

What kind of power supply does the MXR M115 Distortion III require?

The MXR M115 Distortion III requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It can also run on a single 9V battery.

How does the MXR M115 Distortion III compare to other distortion pedals in terms of tonal character?

The MXR M115 Distortion III offers a warm, classic distortion tone with a smooth, organic sound that is versatile for various rock and blues styles.

Is the MXR M115 Distortion III suitable for use with a bass guitar?

While primarily designed for electric guitars, the MXR M115 Distortion III can be used with bass guitars, though it may color the low-end response differently.

What are the main controls on the MXR M115 Distortion III pedal?

The MXR M115 Distortion III features simple controls with knobs for Output and Tone, allowing easy adjustment of volume and tonal characteristics.

Does the MXR M115 Distortion III pedal have true bypass switching?

Yes, the MXR M115 Distortion III features true bypass switching to ensure your signal remains uncolored when the pedal is turned off.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

MXR Distortion III Pedal

Video thumbnail for MXR Distortion III Pedal by ProGuitarShopDemos

MXR Distortion III Pedal

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for MXR Distortion + vs Distortion III guitar effect pedal shootout by gearmanndude

MXR Distortion + vs Distortion III guitar effect pedal shootout

gearmanndude

gearmanndude

Video thumbnail for MXR Distortion 3 Pedal | Reverb Demo Video by Reverb

MXR Distortion 3 Pedal | Reverb Demo Video

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for MXR Distortion III Demo by Robert Baker by Robert Baker

MXR Distortion III Demo by Robert Baker

Robert Baker

Robert Baker

Video thumbnail for MXR M-115 Distortion III Pedal Video Demo by tunnelvisionmusic

MXR M-115 Distortion III Pedal Video Demo

tunnelvisionmusic

tunnelvisionmusic

Video thumbnail for MXR Distortion III Pedal Demo by TheToneShack

MXR Distortion III Pedal Demo

TheToneShack

TheToneShack

Video thumbnail for TONE THURSDAY: MXR Distortion III Distortion Pedal - A GREAT OVERDRIVE? by Music Bliss Malaysia

TONE THURSDAY: MXR Distortion III Distortion Pedal - A GREAT OVERDRIVE?

Music Bliss Malaysia

Music Bliss Malaysia

Video thumbnail for MXR M115 Distortion III Demo - Harmon Music - HIGH DEFINITION by Harmon Music

MXR M115 Distortion III Demo - Harmon Music - HIGH DEFINITION

Harmon Music

Harmon Music

Video thumbnail for MXR Distortion III - Quick sound demo (Metal) by Oliver Lukacs

MXR Distortion III - Quick sound demo (Metal)

Oliver Lukacs

Oliver Lukacs

Video thumbnail for MXR DISTORTION III by KRAZEEIZATION

MXR DISTORTION III

KRAZEEIZATION

KRAZEEIZATION

Video thumbnail for MXR distortion III M115 Played on Gibson Studio 2019 by gibsonshopru

MXR distortion III M115 Played on Gibson Studio 2019

gibsonshopru

gibsonshopru

Video thumbnail for MXR DISTORTION III  M115 TEST by kengbluerock

MXR DISTORTION III M115 TEST

kengbluerock

kengbluerock

Reviews

PROS

  • British-inspired tone, versatile from 70's rock to metal

  • Ideal for adding texture between overdrive and distortion

  • True bypass, doesn't compromise signal quality

  • Durable construction, "built like a tank"

  • Simple three-knob layout is user-friendly

  • Excellent for pushing tube amps into saturation

  • Provides notable thickness and sustain

  • Works well with both single coils and humbuckers

  • More of a creamy overdrive than harsh distortion

  • Harmonically rich, enhances note definition and clarity

CONS

  • Paint chips off easily

  • Might not reach modern high-gain levels

  • Less appealing to extreme tweakers due to simplicity

  • Can be sensitive to wrong power supply, potential for damage

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXR M115 Distortion III.

Features and functionality

  • The Distortion III is more akin to an overdrive, requiring the distortion control to be cranked for a true distortion sound on a clean amp.

    Source
  • Adjusting the output knob to 1-3 o’clock can significantly enhance the pedal's distortion, compensating for lower gain settings.

    Source
  • When used with a crunchy amp and tone at 1 o'clock, max distortion and output, the pedal can produce a fuzzy wall of sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users compare the Distortion III's tone to the Boss BD-2, noting the BD-2 supplanted the MXR due to its brighter tone and broader overdrive capabilities.

    Source
  • Owners suggest alternative pedals like the RAT and DS-1 for those seeking heavier distortion, as the Distortion III excels in low-gain settings.

    Source
  • The MXR 78 Distortion is likened to a modded DS-1, while the Distortion III is compared to a Blues Driver or Tube Screamer but with more gain.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • When paired with an SG guitar with P90 pickups and run into a Fender Pro Reverb, the Distortion III delivers a crunchy, low-gain overdrive.

    Source
  • Running the Distortion III into a clean channel with tone at 3 o'clock and distortion maxed creates a massive sound, requiring adjustments on dirty channels.

    Source

User experience

  • Users with low-output vintage pickups find the Distortion III tends to sound more like an SD-1, suggesting a different guitar might be needed for desired tone.

    Source
  • The pedal is described as reminiscent of a lower gain RAT, providing a unique sound appreciated by RAT enthusiasts.

    Source

Critic Reviews

MXR M115 Distortion III Pedal for Guitar - Product Review

guitarpickreviews.com

The MXR M115 Distortion III is a compact powerhouse that delivers aggressive tones in a small package. It's a budget-friendly option at $99, comparable to higher-end models. While it may not satisfy purists seeking tube-like tones, its simplicity and effectiveness in boosting and shaping sound make it a standout in its price range. Ideal for those who value analog authenticity and straightforward controls.

positive

M115 Distortion III Review: With the tubes cracked pretty good and the distortion on the... | MXR | Guitar Effects | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The MXR M115 Distortion III might be misnamed, as its sweet spot is more in the realm of warm, organic overdrive rather than outright distortion. While it might disappoint those craving heavy metal tones, it shines as a high-quality crunch pedal, offering balanced, non-intrusive sound with excellent harmonic content. Built like a tank, it boasts top-notch reliability, making it a worthy addition to any rig. For those seeking a smooth tube overdrive sound with solid-state or tube amps, this pedal is a superb choice, despite its misleading moniker.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 41 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
cwirus88

Shocked and amazed by MXR Distortion III

I've been through all popular tubescreamer type pedals (TS-9, TS-808, SD-1, OD-1 etc.) and each of them in fact was lacking that "something". And just by accident I bought for few bucks this Distortion III. Since this pedal is not that popular and rather sits in 10th row at the show, I really had no big expectations. Guess what? This pedal amazed me. Not only this pedal sounds great while boosting already cranked amp, but also does job perfectly when used as standalone overdrive unit. And do not get fooled by its name, because "Distortion" here means definately too much. It is rather moderate heavy overdrive that can get from subtle and delicate to really hardcore. I think that it will stay for ever on my board.

john_h_reid

More OD than Dist

Good vintage flavoured overdrive. The addition of a tone control makes it a good bit more versatile than a Distortion+. I have grown to love this pedal.

From Gear Setup
blastmaster69

Stacking

This pedal sounds good stacked with a way huge saucy box. I seen a video with it stacked and I played with the knobs and got a good tone. Have fun and explore.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Taylor Hawkins uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Taylor Hawkins

Singer, Drummer

Foo Fighters

...
Verified via YouTube

In a Sotheby's video, Taylor Hawkins discusses his use of the MXR M115 Distortion III pedal, showcasing its role in his rock and roll style.

See how Keith Urban uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Keith Urban

Guitarist, Bassist

Artists of Then, Now & Forever

...
Verified via YouTube

Keith Urban's guitar tech, Chris Miller, on Rig Rundown, said that the Dunlop MXR Distortion III is a permanent part of their rack. 'It is an under rated pedal, maybe due to the working man's price, but it works great for them'.

See how Josh Farro uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Josh Farro

Guitarist

Paramore

...
Verified via Instagram

Josh Farro uses the MXR M115 Distortion III as the second stage drive on his pedalboard, as shown in his Instagram post from the studio session captioned "back in the studio! new songs 4 U."

See how Christian Bland uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Christian Bland

Guitarist

The Black Angels

...
Verified via Pedalmaniacs

Christian Bland of The Black Angels used the MXR M115 Distortion III pedal on his pedalboard during their live performance at Lollapalooza 2012, as detailed on Pedalmaniacs.

See how Tim Skold uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Tim Skold

Singer, Guitarist

Marilyn Manson

...
Verified via Photo

Seen here in his pedal rack from the Marilyn Manson "Eat Me, Drink Me" tour.

See how Jake Cinninger uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Jake Cinninger

Guitarist

Umphrey’s McGee

...
Verified via YouTube

At 22:45 in the video "Umphrey's McGee Rig Rundown: Jake Cinninger & Brendan Bayliss Guitar Gear Tour 2025" by Premier Guitar on YouTube, guitarist Jake Cinninger is clearly seen using the Dunlop M115 MXR Distortion III pedal as part of his pedalboard during a live performance.

See how Dylan Thomas uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Dylan Thomas

Guitarist

Hillsong United

...
Verified via Tumblr

dylan can been seen with a red MXR distortion pedal.

See how Chloe Moriondo uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Chloe Moriondo

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the Vevo DSCVR live performance of "I Want To Be With You," Chloe Moriondo uses the Dunlop M115 MXR Distortion III pedal.

See how Pustulus Maximus of GWAR (Brent Purgason) uses MXR M115 Distortion III

Pustulus Maximus of GWAR (Brent Purgason)

Guitarist

Gwar

...
Verified via YouTube

Pustulus Maximus of GWAR (Brent Purgason) incorporates the MXR M115 Distortion III into his setup, driving his signature tone through an overdrive into a JCM 800. This setup is detailed in the "Rigged: Pustulus Maximus of GWAR" video by Trey Xavier on Gear Gods.

See how David Carreire uses MXR M115 Distortion III

David Carreire

Guitarist, Music Producer

TOPS

...
Verified via Photo

A photograph of David Carriere's pedalboard from the "Bury The Key" tour confirms his use of the MXR M115 Distortion III.

J

Joshua Waters Rudge

Guitarist

The Skints

...
Verified via Photo

In the right of the picture is Joshua's pedal board from a recent gig. An MXR Distortion III can be seen.

Album Usage

The MXR M115 Distortion III has been featured on the following albums:

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use MXR M115 Distortion III, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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2
Boss BD-2 Blues Driver
Boss BD-2 Blues Driver Overdrive Effects Pedals
2

Community setups

Show yours
adambrister

adambrister

Gear IQ 359

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adambrister

Gear IQ 359

laywong

laywong

Gear IQ 65

kyle_mcgee

kyle_mcgee

Gear IQ 295

kyle_mcgee

kyle_mcgee

Gear IQ 295

john_h_reid

john_h_reid

Gear IQ 221

oedipoes

oedipoes

Gear IQ 1391

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