1979 Boss OD-1 MIJ, Silver Screw, 8 Pin Version (Used)

The 1979 Boss OD-1 MIJ silver screw is an early Japanese-made overdrive pedal and one of the most important drive pedals in effects history. Produced in Japan during the late 1970s, this version is easily identified by the silver screw battery compartment and is highly regarded for its original analogue circuit, which laid the foundation for countless overdrive designs that followed. Rather than heavy distortion, it delivers a smooth, natural breakup that enhances an amp’s character and responds closely to playing dynamics.

The OD-1 uses a simple control layout with Level and Drive knobs, allowing players to set overall output volume and the amount of overdrive applied to the signal. Its asymmetrical clipping design produces a soft, amp-like response with strong midrange presence, making it ideal for pushing tube amps, adding edge to clean tones, or stacking with other gain pedals. The touch sensitivity makes it especially responsive to pick attack and guitar volume adjustments.

Built in Boss’s famously rugged metal enclosure, the 1979 MIJ silver screw OD-1 features standard ¼-inch input and output jacks and runs on a 9V battery or early Boss ACA-style power supply. Due to its age, build quality, and tonal character, this version is highly sought after by collectors and players alike, valued for both its historical significance and its warm, musical overdrive sound.

This unit has the 8 pin chip.