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Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde Ultimate Overdrive

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Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde Ultimate Overdrive

4.5 (20)

1 Critic Review

3 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Newer option

Visual Sound V2 Series V2JH Jekyll and Hyde

$155.24

4.5 (53)

Find out who is using Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde Ultimate

3 community setups

23 wishlisted

66 saved

Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

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Description

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Unleash your inner rockstar with the Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde Ultimate Overdrive. An evolution of its 1997 predecessor, this overdrive guitar pedal is a powerhouse of sonic versatility. It's the perfect blend of old-school grit with modern functionality. The Jekyll & Hyde offers a unique twist on overdrive effects, providing a dual-natured sound that can go from subtle warmth to full-blown distortion. Its sharp/blunt overdrive character switch offers an extra layer of control, allowing you to shape your sound exactly how you want it.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a fresh-faced newbie, the Jekyll & Hyde is a must-have addition to your pedalboard. It's not just an overdrive pedal, it's a tool for musical expression. So go ahead, let your guitar do the talking, and let the Jekyll & Hyde be your voice.

Key Features:

Dual-natured overdrive sound, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities
Sharp/Blunt overdrive character switch for enhanced control
Single row of controls for ease of use
Builds upon the legacy of its 1997 predecessor
Perfect for both professionals and beginners.

Product specs

Power	9V
Bypass	true bypass
Analog/Digital	analog

Videos

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GuitarWithGabe

Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde (V1) Ultimate Overdrive Demo

GuitarWithGabe

Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde V1: Demo

PedalPerv

Visual Sound Jekyll and Hyde Ultimate Overdrive V1 - VGW

Vintage Guitar Workshop

Reviews

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PROS

Dual overdrive/distortion offers versatile sound profiles
Captures iconic 2000s indie rock tones perfectly
Jekyll side provides excellent low grit drive for 90s grunge tones
Distortion side nails heavy Radiohead to scooped metal sounds
Can stack well with other pedals for expanded soundscapes
Unique TS808 circuit adds distinct color to your sound
Engage/disengage both channels with one foot motion
Fits well in an extensive pedal setup
Reliable and durable with company support for repairs
More compact and classier design compared to newer versions

CONS

Some users report hissing with both sides engaged
Distortion side's tone may be too bright for some
Takes up significant space on a pedalboard
May require additional noise gate pedal due to hiss

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde Ultimate Overdrive.

Comparisons

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V3's overdrive is based on Visual Sound's Open Road, contrasting with V1-V2's TS-808 inspired circuit.
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V1.5's red model is preferred for its rare tonal qualities, likened to V2's capabilities.
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Users looking for a Radiohead-like distortion sound might find the Jekyll & Hyde's distortion side appealing, as it's likened to the Marshall Shred Master.
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The Jekyll side replicates the TS808 circuit, similar to a Boss SD1 or Mooer Green Mile, while the Hyde side mirrors a Marshall Guv'nor, akin to Mooer Cruncher.
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The Stonedeaf PDF-1X is suggested as a viable alternative to achieve tones close to the Jekyll & Hyde.
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Features and functionality

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V2 models added a noise gate, enhancing signal clarity compared to V1.
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The red V1 model includes a bass boost feature, which is absent in the silver version, making it more desirable for users seeking fuller low-end tones.
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The V3 model offers enhanced routing options, making it especially useful for those employing loop switchers in their setups.
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Use cases and applications

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V3 is praised for capturing tones similar to the Strokes, despite their use of older versions.
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Owners have successfully used the red V1 for studio work, highlighting its suitability for achieving distinct tones in a controlled environment.
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Build quality

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The red V1 model is reportedly built with a sturdier housing compared to the silver V1, based on user experiences with durability.
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Value and pricing

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Recent trends show that red V1 models have become scarce, often selling quickly at prices higher than their original cost, reflecting high demand.
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Used Jekyll & Hyde pedals are often priced around $120, making them a cost-effective option compared to a new purchase at $200.
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User experience

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The red V1 model's scarcity adds to its allure, with buyers expressing satisfaction in obtaining models in excellent condition, including original packaging and manuals.
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A user with over 10 years of experience with the Jekyll & Hyde finds it perfect for their sound preferences, emphasizing long-term satisfaction.
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Some users miss their traded V3 units, indicating its lasting appeal and desirability even after parting with the pedal.
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Critic Reviews

Jekyll And Hyde Ultimate Overdrive Review | Visual Sound | Guitar Effects | Reviews @ Ultimate-Guitar.Com

ultimate-guitar.com

The Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde Ultimate Overdrive pedal charms with its versatility and impressive sound quality, making it a standout choice for various music styles from classic rock to heavy metal. Users praise its ability to enhance any amp setup, delivering that extra sonic punch without breaking the bank. Though some might find its aesthetic a bit gimmicky, the pedal’s performance and reliability shine through, cementing its reputation as a favorite among guitarists. Overall, it’s a must-have for those seeking a dynamic overdrive/distortion solution that won’t disappoint.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 20 Ratings

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1 star

matt_gilson

125

over 2 years ago

Great drive for 90s/2000s rock and unique TS808

So I’ve had this one for 2 years now on a 15 pedal layout. I play mostly Indie Rock on a Sky King amp. This pedals OD side is that 2000s Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, The Bravery and all those sounds. For me this with a Boss RE20 it’s a great sound! I have a lot of older and Botique like pedals. It fits right in and finds itself on 90% of the time. I pick it over my Morning Glory a lot for Rhythm guitar.

This pedal also just stacks with every pedal! Rat, Muff, MIAB style pedal. Turn any of these on with the Jekyl side on low grit drive….instant 90s grunge tones.

The distortion side is a bit different, and a love or hate. It nails Creep/The Bends Radiohead heavy guitars down to screaming….that’s the bloody sound right there! Also does a good scooped metal sound….think Master of Puppets. My guess is some don’t like the distortion because the tone is set too bright. Either on the amp or pedal. At low gain it can act as another low key OD as well. But best sounds good from 4/9 distortion for your 80s/90s tones.

What can I say this so pedal is a steal if you can find one under $150! Perfect choice for a unique TS808 circuit you may never want to be without….I’ve considered buying a V1 back up. Note: the company still works on the V1 for a flat $35 fee.

So that’s also a bonus if you get any issues. For me a little deoxit on the pots, cleaned up my sound…was still in box barely used mint early 2000s.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

Overdrive Indie Rock: Gain: 0-2 Tone: 3oclock to max Volume: 4 Bass switch off

Roles:

Guitarist Keyboardist Composer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Electronica

luxiu

44626

over 11 years ago

Useful tone grit shaping tool

I've chosen this old red version against the new one because of its height (the V2 version's back is too tall), the issue that it looks a lot more classier than the V2 too, and also the more trustable and comfortable action of its bypass switches (V2 switches feels awkward, the –now: coming soon– V3 seems to solve that). It is a strong tool as its versatility just can give a nice sounding response with almost whatever setup you throw around it if you just happen to know how to deal with classic controls options, it just may take too much space from your board (again: the Visual Sound's / Truetone's V3 series give a response to that issue).

Roles:

Guitarist

Genres:

Rock

notalan11ty7

212

about 10 years ago

distortion and overdrive

great because i couldnt affor a big muff and tube screamer

jimmarchi1

41029

10 years ago about 10 years ago

I think the hyde side is more of a proco rat

matt_gilson

125

3 years ago over 3 years ago

My understanding of the Hyde side is it’s a Shredmaster style. So The Strokes to early The Bends Radiohead sounds. I do find the distortion works in two ways for me. High gain for Strokes like retro solo colored sound. Radiohead gains there Shredmaster up. But I find note clarity difficult past noon. Other way I’d to run for rhythm is at 11oclock or less. But as far as I know it’s confirmed Shredmaster. But the gain gets so crazy with sustain. It could be like a thinner muff. Also running a muff or fuzz before the OD, gives some nice QOTSA EQ type sounds.