MXR Custom Badass ’78 Distortion Pedal – Used
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MXR Custom Badass ’78 Distortion Pedal – Used
Description
Quick Product Summary
The MXR Custom Badass ’78 Distortion M78 delivers a hot-rodded take on classic old-school distortion, combining saturated rhythm tones and soaring lead sounds with a simple three-knob control layout.
This used example is in Good condition, showing visible signs of previous use consistent with a pre-owned effects pedal. A dedicated CRUNCH switch changes the clipping response for increased harmonic content and a more dynamic feel.
What Makes the MXR Custom Badass ’78 Distortion Special?
The M78 takes inspiration from a classic distortion circuit and modifies it for a bigger, more open and amp-like response. The Distortion, Tone and Output controls make it straightforward to move from crunchy rhythm sounds to heavily saturated lead tones.
Engaging the CRUNCH switch changes the clipping configuration and increases the dynamic range and harmonic content of the distortion. This gives the pedal two useful personalities without complicating the control layout.
Who Is It For?
The Custom Badass ’78 Distortion is ideal for guitarists looking for classic rock, hard rock, alternative and heavier distortion tones with plenty of harmonic character.
It works well into clean amplifiers, slightly driven amps and already overdriven setups, making it a flexible choice for both standalone distortion and stacked gain sounds.
At A Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Effect Type | Distortion |
| Condition | Used – Good |
| Model | M78 |
| Controls | Output, Tone, Distortion |
| Additional Control | CRUNCH Switch |
| Character | Classic / Hot-Rodded Distortion |
| Bypass | True Hardwire |
| Power | 9V Battery or 9V DC |
Condition Overview
Condition Grade: Good
This pedal is in good used condition, with visible cosmetic signs of previous ownership and regular pedalboard use.
It remains a solid working example suitable for rehearsal, recording and live performance.
What’s Included?
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MXR Custom Badass ’78 Distortion M78 Pedal
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No power supply included
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Effect Type | Distortion |
| Model | M78 |
| Controls | Output, Tone, Distortion |
| CRUNCH Mode | Switchable |
| Distortion Range | Approx. 27dB at 500Hz |
| Maximum System Gain | Approx. 43dB |
| Tone Circuit | Tilt EQ |
| Input Impedance | 1 MΩ |
| Output Impedance | 6 kΩ |
| Nominal Input Level | -22dBV |
| Maximum Output – Crunch Off | -5dBV |
| Maximum Output – Crunch On | -2dBV |
| Bypass | True Hardwire |
| Current Draw | Approx. 6mA with LEDs On |
| Power | 9V DC or 9V Battery |
Power Requirements
The MXR Custom Badass ’78 Distortion can be powered using a standard 9V battery or a suitable regulated 9V DC power supply.
No external power supply is included with this used pedal.
FAQs
What type of distortion does the MXR M78 produce?
The M78 produces classic-style distortion with a hot-rodded, amp-like character suited to crunchy rhythm sounds and saturated lead tones.
What does the CRUNCH switch do?
The CRUNCH switch changes the clipping configuration, increasing dynamic range and harmonic content for a more open and aggressive distortion character.
What controls does it have?
The pedal has three main controls: Output, Tone and Distortion.
Can it produce lower-gain sounds?
Yes. Lower Distortion settings can produce crunchy drive tones, while higher settings deliver substantially more saturation.
Does it work well for classic rock?
Yes. Its voicing is particularly well suited to classic rock, hard rock and other styles that benefit from an old-school distortion character.
Can it be used into an already driven amplifier?
Yes. MXR designed the pedal to work well into clean, slightly driven and heavily overdriven amplifiers.
Can it be stacked with overdrive pedals?
Yes. The M78 can be combined with boosts and overdrives to create additional gain structures and lead sounds.
Does it use true bypass?
Yes. The Custom Badass ’78 Distortion uses true hardwire bypass.
Can it run from a battery?
Yes. It can operate from a standard 9V battery.
Is a power supply included?
No. No power supply is included with this used pedal.
What condition is this example in?
This example is graded Good, with visible signs of previous use consistent with a pre-owned effects pedal.
Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?
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Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.
Have pedals, guitars, amplifiers or other musical equipment you no longer use? Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges pre-owned gear, allowing you to put the value of your existing equipment towards your next purchase.
Contact our team for a valuation or bring your equipment into our Birmingham showroom at 79–83 Holloway Head.
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible, within 24 hours on weekdays.
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Good to Know
How long is the warranty period?
For new products, you will get the full manufacturer warranty. For our second-hand products, we will cover any fault within 4 weeks of the purchase of any guitar. For pianos, that will be extended to 3 months.
What is the estimated delivery time?
We use the 24hr delivery in UK mainlands if it can be delivered by post. For Scotland and Wales, it depends on the area and the distance from our warehouse, but our aim is to get you order to your hands as soon as possible.
For products that cannot be posted, we will arrange the delivery with you to suit your schedule and deliver it to you
Do you offer international shipping?
We usually can ship instruments worldwide. Please get in touch to get a quote
What is the maintinance on your USED products?
- Guitars: Every guitar will be setup to a high playing standard before shipping. The electronics are checked and if there is any issue with guitar, it will be fixed.
- Pianos: Every piano is fully tested to make sure it's fully functional, cleaned, and if it's digital, a facroty reset is performed.
Do you offer assembly and installation?
We offer installation and assembly for pianos, drum kits, or any products that require it for and extra charge. Please get in touch so we can provide you with a quote.