Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (9)
$99.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$179.99
Amazon
4.7 (32)
$179.25
Reverb
5.0 (5)
$161.99 New
$85.00 Used

Average Price: $155

Standard/Professional

$50

$176+

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Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "MXR M251 FOD Drive". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash the power of two coveted amp stacks with the MXR M251 FOD Drive. This pedal is a game-changer, offering the tonal richness of two heavily customized guitar amplifiers, offering sonic diversity right at your feet. The MXR's engineering team has painstakingly recreated these amps, offering two channels—High Gain and Crunch Gain—each with its own Gain and Volume controls for optimal sound customization.

The High Gain channel is designed for super scooped high-gain saturation, while the Crunch Gain channel is tailored for punchy midrange crunch. These channels work in harmony to deliver a harmonically complex palette of grit, grind, and maxed-out overdrive.

The FOD Drive is not just about power; it's about control. With the Blend control, you can set the mix ratio of the two signals, emulating the experience of having two separate amps running into a mixing box. The Tone knob sets the EQ for the overall output signal, while the Scoop switch allows you to choose between flat, scooped, or boosted midrange voices. Experience the invigorating potential of playing through two ripping amp stacks with the MXR M251 FOD Drive.

Key Features:

  • Emulates two distinct amplifier stacks and allows you to blend between them
  • High Gain channel delivers mid-scooped high-gain tones
  • Crunch Gain channel emphasizes midrange punch and power
  • Separate Gain and Volume controls for each channel
  • 3-way Scoop switch offers flat, scooped, or boosted midrange voicing
  • Delivers the experience of playing through two hot-rodded amp stacks

Product specs

Pedal Type Amp Overdrive
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Bypass Switching True Hardwire
EQ 3-way Mid Scoop Switch
Controls Blend, Gain, Tone, Output
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Batteries 1 x 9V
Power Usage 11mA
Height 1.25"
Width 2.37"
Depth 4.37"
Weight 0.5 lbs.

FAQs

What kind of power supply does the MXR M251 FOD Drive require?

The MXR M251 FOD Drive requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It can also be powered by a 9V battery.

Does the MXR M251 FOD Drive feature true bypass switching?

Yes, the MXR M251 FOD Drive features true hardwire bypass switching, ensuring your signal remains unaffected when the pedal is off.

How does the MXR M251 FOD Drive differ from other overdrive pedals?

The MXR M251 FOD Drive emulates two distinct amplifier stacks, allowing you to blend between them for a customizable tone. It features separate Gain and Output controls for each channel, offering versatile sound shaping.

Can the MXR M251 FOD Drive be used with bass guitars?

While primarily designed for electric guitars, the MXR M251 FOD Drive can be used with bass guitars, but tonal results may vary depending on your setup and preferences.

What are the main control options on the MXR M251 FOD Drive?

The MXR M251 FOD Drive offers controls for Blend, Gain, Tone, and Output, along with a 3-way Mid Scoop switch to tailor your sound further.

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

NEW! MXR M251 FOD Drive - Two Amp Stacks In One Pedal!

Video thumbnail for NEW! MXR M251 FOD Drive - Two Amp Stacks In One Pedal! by PMTVUK

NEW! MXR M251 FOD Drive - Two Amp Stacks In One Pedal!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for MXR M251 FOD Drive Pedal! by GAK

MXR M251 FOD Drive Pedal!

GAK

GAK

Video thumbnail for MXR FOD Drive Pedal Demo | SOUND BITES by GUITARGUITAR

MXR FOD Drive Pedal Demo | SOUND BITES

GUITARGUITAR

GUITARGUITAR

Video thumbnail for MXR M251 FOD Drive by Jim Dunlop UK

MXR M251 FOD Drive

Jim Dunlop UK

Jim Dunlop UK

Reviews

PROS

  • Blend knob offers versatile crunch to sizzle sounds

  • Mid control switch provides significant tone character changes

  • Compact and durable build quality

  • Mimics Billie Joe Armstrong’s sound effectively

  • Inspiring and encourages continuous play

  • Red sparkle finish adds aesthetic appeal

  • Works well with tube amps for superior sound quality

  • Compatible with other pedals for expanded soundscapes

  • Clear note and chord articulation even with heavy distortion

  • Suitable for a wide range of rock genres and beyond

CONS

  • May sound fizzy on solid-state amps like the Katana

  • Gain can get overly fat and fizzy at high levels

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXR M251 FOD Drive.

Features and functionality

  • The FOD Drive includes a three-way toggle switch for mid-boost, differing from the Dookie Drive's scoop mod.

    Source
  • The blend knob on the FOD Drive allows users to toggle between two distinct amp sounds, with one side emulating a Super Lead and the other a JCM 800.

    Source
  • The FOD Drive is noted for its versatility in adapting non-Marshall amps to achieve Billie Joe Armstrong's iconic sound, aided by its mid-switch functionality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners report the FOD Drive gets fizzy with too much gain, suggesting it's best suited for lower gain settings to avoid fuzz-like tones.

    Source
  • The pedal excels at mimicking early Green Day tones, particularly with settings that replicate the Marshall Super Lead preamp for a "Dookie" sound.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users note the FOD Drive may represent the unmodded sound of Green Day's amps, as opposed to the modded tone of the Dookie Drive.

    Source
  • The FOD Drive is designed to emulate two amp sounds: a mid-scooped, modded JCM 800 and a mid-focused Plexi, allowing users to blend these tones.

    Source

User experience

  • The pedal retains a fizzy character across multiple guitar types, including Gibson Les Paul, Epiphone Les Paul, and Fender Fat Strat.

    Source
  • Users note that achieving authentic tones requires balancing gain and EQ settings, with a preference for medium gain and reduced bass to avoid excessive fizz.

    Source

Critic Reviews

MXR M305 Tremolo & M251 FOD review | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

The MXR M251 FOD Drive excels at blending two distinct overdrive tones, delivering a rich and versatile sound that stands out in any pedalboard. Its compact design, reasonable price, and user-friendly controls make it a solid choice for guitarists seeking variety. However, the four-screw battery access can be a hassle for quick changes. Overall, it's a well-rounded overdrive pedal that offers great tonal flexibility with minor usability drawbacks.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Billie Joe Armstrong uses MXR M251 FOD Drive

Billie Joe Armstrong

Singer, Guitarist

Green Day

...
Verified via Photo

Billie Joe uses FOD Drive from a studio picture on Instagram. The FOD Drive and Dookie Drive are largely identical, utilizing the same circuitry. The only notable distinction is that the Dookie Drive features Green Day artwork, while the FOD Drive includes an additional switch for boosting midrange frequencies.

See how Christone Kingfish Ingram uses MXR M251 FOD Drive

Christone Kingfish Ingram

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this 9:12 AM EST February 24, 2021 Instagram story post.

Trying to choose between these ODs.....might just go back to the MXR Sugar Drive 🤔

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 MXR M251 FOD Drive, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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mikey_shitgoose

mikey_shitgoose

Gear IQ 115

A

akidcalledoutlaw

Gear IQ 1662

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