Boss Distortion Pedal Stompbox DS-1

Probably the most popular and best sold distortion pedal on the market. The DS-1 is a good starter distortion pedal but it's not uncommon to see it amongst a pro's arsenal of pedals.

Manages to give guitarists a lot of natural nuances at various levels of dynamics, that is pluck strings softly and you get one tone, dig in with the plectrum and a much grittier cutting sound. Very simple controls of volume, distortion level and tone, go from minimal crunch with the distortion control set low for traditional rock and indie tones and crank it up for high gain metal and heavier rock sound. The tone will take off the top end when on a low setting and cranked will give lots of treble for thrashy metal tones.

Versatile considering how little controls there are, the DS-1 is a worthy pedal in anybody's pedal collection or a great first distortion pedal.