Best distortion pedals for 80s metal

Name: Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Bundle
Brand: BOSS

Steve Romanoski

Last Updated: Sep 30, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best distortion pedals for 80s metal one can find out there. We've analyzed about 116 of distortion pedals for 80s metal and selected the 49 top options by Harmo, MAONOCASTER, JBL. We took the time to do a meticulous research and point out some advantages and disadvantages of each of the products we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend numerous hours hoping to find the perfect model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

#TOP 1

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Bundle

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Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Bundle

#TOP 1

#TOP 2

Boss HM-2W Waza Craft Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal

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Boss HM-2W Waza Craft Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal

#TOP 2

#TOP 3

Monoprice Guitar Distortion Effects Pedal

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Monoprice Guitar Distortion Effects Pedal

#TOP 3

Top 49 Best distortion pedals for 80s metal Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Bundle

BOSS

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Built-in remote jack allows users to connect an external footswitch such as the FS-5L for instant, hands-free switching between modes
Turbo Mode II provides biting distortion with a mid-range boost, perfect for leads
Bundle includes a premium 10-foot Roland Black Series instrument cable is included, as well as a 6-inch Roland Black Series Patch/Pedal cable, both featuring multi-strand, oxygen-free copper core wire that translates the true tones of your instrument, while high-density spiral shielding eliminates unwanted noise. We have also included a 3-pack of Boss celluloid guitar picks in varying thickness, so you can start playing right out of the box!
Turbo Mode I produces warm and mellow distortion with flat frequency response
Classic BOSS distortion tones with added Turbo modes

#TOP 2

Boss HM-2W Waza Craft Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal

BOSS

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High-gain Disttion Pedal with Low/High Col Mix Controls Stard/Custom Modes

#TOP 3

Monoprice Guitar Distortion Effects Pedal

Monoprice

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Legendary Vintage Distortion: The Indio DS 6 True Bypass Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal faithfully reproduces the tone of legendary distortion pedals of the mid to late 70s and early 80s, which were mostly characterized by their simple design and ample available gain. Despite their over the top potential, these distortion pedals are versatile, as they can be run at every gain stage with equally awesome results. The Indio DS 6 True Bypass Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal uses comparable, yet modern components (operational amplifiers and chips) to replicate the character that made the originals the best vintage distortion pedals ever made.
Versatile Power: Indio true bypass guitar effect pedals can be powered either by a 9V battery or an external power supply, making them both versatile and venue/scenario proof. Use the 611690 Stage Right 9V Power Supply for Guitar Pedals (available separately) when playing at home, in your practice space, or when power is easily accessible at the venue. Alternatively, you can use a 9V battery to be free from extra cables or when power outlets aren't accessible.
Faithfully recreated the design and vintage tone of the mid‑to‑late 70s distortion pedal.
True Bypass Design and Full Metal Construction: Unlike most inexpensive guitar pedals, Indio pedals feature a true bypass design, keeping your tone pristine when not engaged. Other boutique guitar pedals featuring a true bypass design will cost several times more, while using the same components inside every Indio pedal. Additionally, Indio true bypass guitar effects feature full metal construction, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of the road. The full size housing provides enough separation on your board, reducing the crowding issues associated with inexpensive mini pedals.
Powered by 9V battery or external power adapter.

#TOP 4

Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive Pedal

BOSS

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Overdrive Pedal f Electric Guitar

#TOP 5

Boss MT-2 Metal Zone Distortion Guitar Pedal

BOSS

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Disttion Stompbox with 3-b EQ

#TOP 6

Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal

Proco

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Use the RAT 2 as a boost for solos and get the extra kick you need
Used as a primary distortion, it excels at arena rock rhythm tones and soaring leads
Nails that sweet spot where a tube amp goes from sparkly clean to warm overdrive

#TOP 7

MXR EVH5150 Overdrive

JIM DUNLOP

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Extremely versatile
Features multi-stage mosfets, 3-band EQ, boost switch, and Gate
Designed in close collaboration with Eddie Van Halen

#TOP 8

Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion Pedal

BOSS

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Disttion Pedal f Guitar

#TOP 9

Friedman Amplification BE-OD Overdrive Guitar Effects Pedal

Friedman

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Features

Assembled in USA
Volume, Gain, Tight, Bass, Treble and Presence
True Bypass Switching
Can be powered between 9-18VDC (no battery)
Authentic British Overdrive Tones

#TOP 10

Boss MT-2W Waza Metal Zone Distortion Pedal

BOSS

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Distortion Guitar Effects Pedal with 2 Modes
3-band EQ
Premium Buffer

#TOP 11

Boss DS-1 Distortion Bundle

BOSS

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BOSS 5-year warranty
Classic BOSS Distortion tones for guitar and keyboard
Distortion, Level and Tone control to tailor overall sound as desired
Classic, affordable live distortion
Reproduces dynamics of playing, from soft to hard

#TOP 12

Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal

blucoil

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PRODUCES 4 GUITAR EFFECTS IN 1 PEDAL - The Pro Co RAT2 provides distortion, sustain, fuzz, and overdrive effects in one compact stompbox!
RUNS ON AC ADAPTER OR BATTERY POWER - The Pro Co RAT2 offers versatile power source options, you can use either a 9-volt battery or external AC adapter.
INCLUDES - Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal. Power Supply with Slim AC/DC Adapter for 9 Volt DC 670mA with US Plug (Center Negative Polarity). 2-Pack of Blucoil Right-Angled Patch Cables for Effects Pedals. 4-Pack of Blucoil Thin Celluloid Guitar Picks (Assorted Colors).
DELIVERS RAUNCHY SOUNDS WITH ZERO TONE COLORATION - This pedal produces all kinds of raunchy sounds, starting from sweet to nitty grinding. It has true bypass circuitry to ensure your tone stays pure when the effects are off.
PROVIDES VISIBLE LED DISPLAY - It comes with a bright LED indicator that lets you know when the effect is on or off. The glow-in-the-dark control graphics are perfect for the dimly-lit stage.

#TOP 13

Boss ML-2 Metal Core Distortion Pedal

BOSS

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Disttion Guitar Pedal with Low High Settings Metal Construction

#TOP 14

Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal

BOSS

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Tone Controls
Level
Disttion Effects Pedal f Guitar
Bass
Keyboard with Disttion

#TOP 15

Behringer SUPER FUZZ SF300 3-Mode Fuzz Distortion Instrument Effects Pedal

Behringer

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This BEHRINGER product has been designed to compete head to head with leading products on the market
Recreate the whole variety of famous fuzz tones of the '60s and '70s
Dedicated Gain, 2-band EQ and Level controls for awesome sound shaping
Status LED for effect on/off and battery check
3 different sound modes for classic fuzz, grunge and gain boost

#TOP 16

Boss DS-1 Distortion Bundle

BOSS

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Distortion, Level and Tone control to tailor overall sound as desired
Reproduces dynamics of playing, from soft to hard
Classic, affordable live distortion
BOSS 5-year warranty
Classic BOSS Distortion tones for guitar and keyboard

#TOP 17

MXR M75 Super Badass® Distortion

JIM DUNLOP

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True bypass
Bass, Mid & Treble controls
Highly responsive full spectrum distortion
100% Analog

#TOP 18

Revv G3 - Preamp/Overdrive/Distortion Pedal

Revv Amplification

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Preamp/Overdrive/Disttion Pedal f Electric Guitar - Purple

#TOP 19

Keytars Heavy Metal Distortion Dist Pedal Holy War Analong Heavy Pedal

Keytars

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3 Working modes: Lo Boost: Boost a narrow band of high frequencies a little bit.Boost Off : No boost is engaged. Hi Boost: A higher amount of boost is engaged
TRUE BYPASSTrue bypass provide transparent tone.LED indicator shows working state.
High Quality: True bypass provide transparent tone, durable and sturdy. LED indicator shows the working state.
Powerful Function: Entirely gaining and boosting the distortion degree of metal. distortion pedal has special and strong distortion effect.
Note Please: Keytars Holy War Pedal is put stock and we are sending new stock soon, if interest, there are the same Koogo Holy War in my store, you will like it!

#TOP 20

Fender Pugilist Distortion Pedal

Fender

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Discrete tone controls per channel
Led backlit knobs
Fender amp Jewel LED
Magnetically latched hinged 9V battery door
Dual gain engines

#TOP 21

Caline CP-510 Jaguar Classic High Gain Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal True Bypass

Caline

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Caline CP-510 Jaguar Classic High Gain Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal True Bypass Thumb #4

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The original sound was based on a UK plexi-style amp cranked to provide rich harmonic saturated distortion.
We’ve added a Bias control which can transport your tone to either side of the Atlantic. Switch from left to right to reproduce either classic Brit OR American high gain amp tones.
The eighties heralded a new and much sought after tone – 'The Jaguar'– pioneered by a legendary US Heavy Rock band and their innovative finger-tapping lead guitarist.
High quality aluminum alloy which is durable and have a classic size brings you a musical feast.9V DC adapter is needed ,There is not power adapter included,you need to buy one.
If you rock hard, prepare for an eruption of joy when you hook up the Brown Sound into your chain.

#TOP 22

MXR M104 Distortion +

JIM DUNLOP

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Classic 70s distortion
Classic early ’80s hard rock tone
Germanium-powered, soft-clipped distortion

#TOP 23

Behringer HM300 Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal

Behringer

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Disttion Pedal f Electric Guitar

#TOP 24

TC Electronic DARK MATTER DISTORTION Phenomenal Distortion Pedal

TC Electronic

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Voicing switch - for an awesome shift in bass response
True Bypass - zero loss of tone
Gain, Level, Bass and Treble controls - total control of your distortion sounds
item package weight: 11.6 ounces

#TOP 25

MXR M104 Distortion Pedal w/ Patch Cables

MXR

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Includes Patch Cables!
Classic 70s distortion.
Germanium-powered, soft-clipped distortion.
Includes Full Warranty
The tone that made Randy Rhoads famous.

#TOP 26

HOTONE High Gain Metal Distortion Pedal Guitar Effects Pedal Skyline Djent Modern (DJENT)

HOTONE

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HOTONE High Gain Metal Distortion Pedal Guitar Effects Pedal Skyline Djent Modern (DJENT) Thumb #4

HOTONE High Gain Metal Distortion Pedal Guitar Effects Pedal Skyline Djent Modern (DJENT) Thumb #5

HOTONE High Gain Metal Distortion Pedal Guitar Effects Pedal Skyline Djent Modern (DJENT) Thumb #6

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True Bypass Footswitch keeping your Guitar Sound Neat and Uncolorated
Working with 9V Center Negative Regular Pedal Power Supply(Not Included)
Perfect Choice for Djent & Metalcore Distortion
Analog Modern Hi-Gain Distortion with 3-Mode Tone Shaping
Aggressive Mode comes with Enhanced Low End and Presence, Neutral Mode offers a Flatter Sound with more Balanced EQ; Smooth Mode makes the Tone Smoother and Warmer

#TOP 27

JOYO Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal

JOYO

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Interesting pedal--JOYO JF-21 Splinter features a sought-after classic distortion. An interesting combination of fuzz and distortion.In order to make the pedal work properly and quietly, we do recommend JOYO 9V DC pedal power supply with noise reduction technology.
Popular pedal--JOYO JF-21 Splinter allows users to easily change between the stock OP07DP and other popular chips.
Solid pedal--Metal aluminum alloy case, high quality precision components, three knobs for convenient setting, making it a solid pedal that is durable and worth trying.
User-friendly pedal--Three knobs design DISTORTION, FILTER and VOLUME, also, you can select STOCK or MOSFET clipping circuits.Select FAT to choose the nice thick tone.
Service Promise--directly sold by JOYO Technology, who is with over 14 years of experience in customer service,products research and development, JOYO received great reputation all over the world among the guitarists, we would satisfy you at the first time when receiving your request.

#TOP 28

TC Electronic FANGS METAL DISTORTION Ultra-Thick

TC Electronic

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Super tight response
Ultra-thick, high gain distortion
Versatile mid-control
True Bypass for ultimate signal integrity
“Built-like-a-tank” metal chassis

#TOP 29

EX-Inferno Metal Distortion Pedal

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Uses a standard 9-volt negative tip power supply, or add a daisy chain to run multiple pedals from the one power supply source. (Adapter not included).
True-Bypass with powerful analog circuitry, housed in a compact, die-cast box. 1/4 inch input and output jacks and an AC adapter input on the top of the unit.
The EX-Inferno death metal distortion pedal is designed for total metal mayhem.
A three-stage guitar metal pedal boost toggle switch allows for total control of brutal chugging, screaming howls and massive attack for lead and rhythm playing.
Fine tune the metal guitar pedal overall balance with the level, tone and distortion control knobs. Dial up shrill metal leads, deep punchy distortion or total metal chunk.

#TOP 30

Donner Distortion Pedal

Donner

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[Durable Guitar Distortion Pedal] Aluminum-alloy classic, stable and strong.
[True bypass Guitar Pedal] True bypass provides transparent tone. LED indicator shows the working state.
[Notice] DC 9V Adapter power supply. (Not Included).
[Inspired by Classics and More] Dark Mouse distortion pedal is made to bring you the real underground rock scene. Sweet overdrives, grinding rhythms and roaring solos.
[2 Modes] Classic: Produce a classic, warm distortion sound with some fuzz feel. Hyper: Perform a more powerful sound with more edges and bottoms.

#TOP 31

Rowin Analog Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal

Rowin

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3 way toggle switch allows you to choose from a hi boost, low boost and off boost
Please note this pedal NOT include power adptor. Need a DC 9V power supply with negative in the center to power up. Pleae buy it separately at Rowin Music store. Thank you.
Additional shaping is achieved using the gain and tone controls. You can use the Lo and off boost positions to get a great rhythm tone. In this position play with the tone and gain knobs to recreate tones from your favorite bands or uniquely create your own sound. Then switch it into Hi-Boost for a face melting solo.
SOLID CONSTRUCTIONMade of high-quality zinc alloy, durable and sturdy.
TRUE BYPASSTrue bypass provide transparent tone.LED indicator shows working state.MINI SIZESmall and exquisite,can save a lot of space on pedal board.

#TOP 32

Dunlop MXR M116 Fullbore Metal Distortion Guitar Pedal

MXR

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All-analog circuit path
3-band EQ with sweepable mid frequencies
Internal gate threshold control lets you set the noise gate's sensitivity
Bundle includes 6 Dunlop Picks, 2 Patch Cables, and 9V Power Supply
Super-high-gain distortion

#TOP 33

VSN Analog Heavy Pedal Guitar Metal Distortion Effect Pedals Holy War Guitar Metal Case

VSN

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VSN Analog Heavy Pedal Guitar Metal Distortion Effect Pedals Holy War Guitar Metal Case Thumb #3

VSN Analog Heavy Pedal Guitar Metal Distortion Effect Pedals Holy War Guitar Metal Case Thumb #4

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Features

Distortion Effect: Entirely gaining and boosting the distortion degree of metal. distortion pedal has special and strong distortion effect.
3 Working modes: Lo Boost: Boost a narrow band of high frequencies a little bit./Boost Off : No boost is engaged./Hi Boost: A higher amount of boost is engaged
Easy Carry:This pedal has a small size body, light weight, suitable for out side gigs,powered by a DC 9V adapter (Could buy one at VSN Music).
Solid Quality: True bypass provide transparent tone, durable and sturdy. LED indicator shows the working state.
One Year Warranty"VSN Music" is a professional manufacturer of guitar pedal effects. If you receive an unsatisfactory product, please contact us for a solution.

#TOP 34

MXR M116 Fullbore Metal Distortion Pedal w/4 FREE Cables

MXR

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Features

Scoop Switch boost the highs and lows while the EQ stays active
Internal Gate Trigger control lets you set the Noise Gate's sensitivity
Three band EQ with sweepable mid frequencies
Tight, fast, switchable Noise Gate for syncopated metal riffage
Includes 4 Cables!

#TOP 35

JOYO High Gain Distortion Pedal

JOYO

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With a full range of EQ adjustment and tone control, from a little blues rock crunch to an all out snarling distortion this is one versatile pedal.
Before playing, please make sure the guitar is fully connected with the pedal. in order to make JOYO pedals work properly and avoiding unexpected noise, we recommend you to purchase an extra JOYO original power adapter, or choose the other reliable brands and make sure it meets the working current requirement of single pedal.
JOYO High Gain Distortion guitar pedal, get the kind of hard distortion used by the bands you love-from the crunch of AC/DC to the heavy metal of Metallica.
JOYO is over decade of brand reputation, with the most popular budget pedals, amplifiers, wireless systems, controllers, metronomes, tuners winning the love of global guitarists and inspiring people's music dreams.
When used with single coils at lower gain settings you'd have to make sure you hadn't stepped on your vintage overdrive. whole aluminium-alloy housing classic stoving varnish finish, stable and strong, with small LED flash indicator shows the working state.

#TOP 36

SONICAKE Guitar Multi Effect Pedal Heavy Metal HiGain Distortion Boost Chorus Delay Guitar Pedal Black Hammer With Adapter

SONICAKE

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SONICAKE Guitar Multi Effect Pedal Heavy Metal HiGain Distortion Boost Chorus Delay Guitar Pedal Black Hammer With Adapter Thumb #4

SONICAKE Guitar Multi Effect Pedal Heavy Metal HiGain Distortion Boost Chorus Delay Guitar Pedal Black Hammer With Adapter Thumb #5

SONICAKE Guitar Multi Effect Pedal Heavy Metal HiGain Distortion Boost Chorus Delay Guitar Pedal Black Hammer With Adapter Thumb #6

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One-Stop Gig Solution for Metalheads with Main Effects needed On this Guitar Effects Pedal
Analog Hi-Gain Distortion with 3-Band EQ and Smart Noise Gate For the Multi Effects Pedal
BBD-style Analog-sounding Chorus Brings Classic Ambient Tone on Guitar pedal
The Multi Effects Processor have A Pre-Gain Boost can Push Up more Gain and Volume of the Distortion, perfect for some Heavy Riffs or Loud Solos
Guitar Multi Effects Pedal 500ms Analog-Voicing Delay for adding Ambience on different Tone Demands

#TOP 37

Stax Guitar Metal Distortion Pedal Holy War Analong Heavy Pedal Circuitry Metal For Electric Guitar Classic 80's Metal Sound Mini Size With True Bypass

Stax

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Powerful Function: Entirely gaining and boosting the distortion degree of metal. Special and strong distortion effect.
Easy Carry: Small size body, light weight, suitable for outdoor gigs, powered by a DC 9V adapter(not included).
One Year Warranty"Stax" is a professional manufacturer of guitar pedal effects. If you receive an unsatisfactory product, please contact us for a solution.
Solid Quality: True bypass provides transparent tone, durable and sturdy. LED indicator shows the working state.
3 Working Modes: Lo Boost: Boost a narrow band of high frequencies a little bit./Boost Off : No boost is engaged./Hi Boost: A higher amount of boost is engaged

#TOP 38

JOYO Metal Distortion Pedal

JOYO

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Before playing, please make sure the guitar is fully connected with the pedal. in order to make JOYO pedals work properly and avoiding unexpected noise, we recommend you to purchase an extra JOYO original power adapter, or choose the other reliable brands and make sure it meets the working current requirement of single pedal.
JOYO Extreme Metal distortion guitar pedal with adjustable 3 band EQ and sweep Mid-Freq knob, provides a strong low frequency and clear, transparent high frequency.
JOYO is over decade of brand reputation, with the most popular budget pedals, amplifiers, wireless systems, controllers, metronomes, tuners winning the love of global guitarists and inspiring people's music dreams.
Where this pedal is most at home is with the gain at 12 'o' clock or higher. At 12 'o' clock you get some brilliant hard rock tones. With the gain set at around 9 'o' clock using a bridge position humbucker you can get some excellent classic rock tones.
Adjust for shaping frequency response: "High", "Mid", "Low", "Boost", "Level" and "Drive" 6 control knobs, independent EQ controls, allowing you to achieve metal, rock and punk sounds.

#TOP 39

Amuzik Analog Heavy Pedal Guitar Metal Distortion Effect Pedals Guitar Metal Case

Amuzik

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Features

Easy Carry:This pedal has a small size body, light weight, suitable for out side gigs,powered by a DC 9V adapter (Could buy one at Amuzik Store).
Solid Quality: True bypass provide transparent tone, durable and sturdy. LED indicator shows the working state.
3 Working modes: Lo Boost: Boost a narrow band of high frequencies a little bit./Boost Off : No boost is engaged./Hi Boost: A higher amount of boost is engaged
Metal Distortion Effect: Entirely gaining and boosting the distortion degree of metal. distortion pedal has special and strong distortion effect.
100% Satisfaction GuaranteedYour satisfaction is our top priority. If you have any question for this pedal, please feel free to reach our customer service. You are entitled to enjoy 12-month warranty , 30 Days Unconditional Money Back Guarantee.

#TOP 40

ISET Heavy Metal Guitar Pedal Mini Atom Single Effect For Electric Guitar Bass True Bypass

ISET

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Features

The Volume knob simply allows for the output from this pedal to be easily changed by the user.
The Heavy Metal Pedal from Iset Music turns your clean guitar signal into a complete warzone of unique and intense distortion tones. There are insane levels of saturation, distortion and sustain that can be found all with the turn of a few simple knobs!
The Tone Knob changes the brightness of the pedal. Adding more tone by turning clockwise will bring out more clarity and high-end gain to your signal, while turning it counterclockwise will let those bass-y and mid range sounds shine through.
The Distortion knob allows for change in the overall fullness or tone of the effect’s over-driven sound. Turning the knob clockwise will make a louder, more saturated and full tone while turning the knob counter-clockwise will make for a great mild distortion effect.
The Toggle switch allows for a choice between 3 different settings for your pedal. Hi-Boost, having a bit less body and more treble, Boost-Off, having a more mid-range meaty tone, and Lo-Boost, giving a very full mid and deep tone. All 3 choices are great for different genres and effects for any player.

#TOP 41

MIMIDI Metal Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal

MIMIDI

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Features

Customer Satisfaction"MIMIDI" Is a professional manufacturer of guitar pedal effects. We always stand behind our products and it is our honor to satisfy our customers. 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee. Free replacement or refund for any quality issue.
High Quality CircuitTrue bypass and advanced noise reduction circuit keeps your signal clean. Delivering a warm and natural sound. Please make sure the adapter is DC 9V.(Not Included, please purchase separately from our store)The misusage of power adapter will generate noise.
Exquisite GiftThis pedal is packed extremely well in a gift box. Pedal comes with a pre-sized Velcro and Owner's Manual. It can be comprehensively applicable for all music venues: hall, music concert, stage, studio, karaoke, etc. This is the best gift for any Guitarist or Bassist.
2 Modes and Multifunction DesignExtreme sound like hell roar. Classic sound full of power, like jehad howl. Toggle switch to get different styles of distortion effect in 1 pedal; VOLUME knob (output volume),DIST knob (distortion amount) and CONTOUR knob (helps you reach the “Smile EQ”) for using in different scenarios. Each knob gives you a wide control range.
Perfect ConstructionDimensions: 92*38*33mm, weight 142g. Exquisite and portable. Aluminum alloy housing with oxidation paint, mini size easy for carrying, additional flat bar design to protect knob setting, bottom anti-slip silicone pad design makes pedal more stable.

#TOP 42

FLAMMA FC06 Distortion Pedal Electric Guitar Effects Pedal Mini Analog Guitar Pedal True Bypass Metal Shell

FLAMMA

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Features

2 distortion working modes: High Peak Mode, boost up the bottom-end, when increasing distortion by Drive knob, you will get more volume and a slight increase in high-mid range(around 3.5KHz). Low Peak Mode, color up extreme little to the original sound, very nice for clean boosting.
DC 9V adapter power supply. Not included.
Ultrawide dynamic range and extraordinary open tube-like drive sound.
Small size, full metal shell and durable design.
True bypass provides transparent tone.

#TOP 43

UZI Distortion Pedal

Horse

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Features

Lifetime Promise: Unbelievably inexpensive two-knob setup, it's obviously simple to use. For any problem with this distortion pedal, just contact us for a perfect solution, we are always here and help!
Horse distortion pedal, designed for heavy metal, it's characterized by High Gain. with a BIAS knob, switch easily between American Distortion and British Distortion. It has a GAIN Knob and a VOLUME Knob, both are of dynamic balance, adjust the GAIN knob while don't adjust the VOL knob, the signal from the circuit will adjust automatically, ensuring the Volume is the same as before.
Easy Carry: Powered by a DC 9V adapter (not included in this package), this Distortion pedal has a small size body, lightweight, suitable for outside gigs.
Whole aluminum-alloy housing classic stoving varnish finish, stable and strong, with small LED flash indicator shows the working state.
R series effect pedals deliver way more comprehensive tones and functions compared with other pedals. Pedal with bypass provides transparent tone, minimizes the tone loss to keep the tone quality.

#TOP 44

COOLMUSIC C-DI01 Insane Distortion Guitar Bass Distortion Pedal

COOLMUSIC

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Features

With LEVEL, GAIN, TONE, LOW BOOST and FAT BOOST knobs for detailed effects control.
Vintage hard clipping, retains your guitar's tone and clarity.Built-in dual gain circuit, delivers everything from overdrive to distortion.
True bypass footswitch for crystal-clear signal thru.
Distortion guitar effect pedal with full metal shell, durable and sturdy.
With LED light for indicating effects and bypass status.( Pls note that DC adaptor not included)

#TOP 45

Koogo Distortion Pedal Plexion Dist Effects Pedals

Koogo

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Features

Solid Construction: Made of high-quality zinc alloy, durable and sturdy. Full metal shell.
Small and exquisite.True bypass provide transparent tone.LED indicator shows the working state.
Working Modes: Normal and bright. Using the Bright channel allows you to enter into classic rock to late 80s and early 90s rock territory depending on just how much gain you wish to apply. The Normal channel is by no means average by any stretch of the imagination, just adjust the gain, tone and volume dials to get the desired output and you will be amazed by its rich, full-bodied output that sounds just as good clean as it doesn’t heavily distorted.
Package Includes a Koogo Plexion Pedal, a user manual. Power supply DC 9V adapter is not included.
Classic Plexion Distortion: This distortion pedal mirrors the original Plexi amps. It is with 3 knobs control the Gain,Tone and Volume.Toggle switch toggle between Bright and Normal sounds.

#TOP 46

EX-GEAR Red Fury Distortion Pedal

EX GEAR

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Features

ILLUMINATION: All the controls are illuminated. illuminated foot-switch assures the pedal has power and is visible on a dark stage. The knobs illuminate when the pedal is on making the settings easy to read. There is no other pedal like it.
ORIGINAL DESIGN: Design like no other. Original ergonomic heavy-duty matte-black metal casing with durable input jacks and stainless-steel hex machine nuts. Rubber bottom with motto “Make Some Noise!!” True bypass. Designed in the USA.
SOUND: This classic distortion pedal will inspire you to write great riffs and songs. It makes playing the guitar easy. Fast riffs sound clean. Immediate attack and bottom-end-chunk with acute dynamics, punch and distortion. A versatile pedal, bringing feel and tone to your every guitar riff.
MAGNETICS: Strong magnets allow the Red Fury to adhere to any ferromagnetic pedalboard or surface. Say goodbye to velcro.
POCKET Q TECH: EQ settings were calibrated to create precise frequency settings, with low, mid and high options. Extra tone knob effects the overall sonic quality.

#TOP 47

Sofadio Distortion Guitar Pedal

SOFADIO

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Features

Dedicated level & tone &DIST knobs are built with Color LED lights allowing for precise and easy effect tailoring even in dark environment.
Premium chip and circuit are used to guarantee almost zero background noise. The distortion pedal requires a DC 9V Adapter power supply(NOT INCLUDED).
Mini size, light weight and whole aluminium alloy case make it super easy and safe to carry around in your pedal case.
True Bypass Switch provides transparent tone. Color LED lights indicate the working state.
After-sales support are always here to help 7 day 24 hours if you have any problems.

#TOP 48

Sondery Metal Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal

Sondery

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Made of reliable high-quality aluminum alloy with a beautiful art design on the top, and diamond cut along the edge; anti-skid rubber pad on the backside for stability and friction prevention
LED status indicator; user manual included; no batteries needed, powered by an AC adapter (NOT included) delivery, 9V DC, internal negative, external positive - VERY IMPORTANT!
3 modes of Solo, Turbo and Normal, easily switch to different positions to distortion the device for one-of-a-kind pedal sound. True bypass hardware switching
Measures 3.7 by 1.9 by 1.66 inches / 94 by 42 by 48 millimetres; backed by Sondery 1-year limited warranty
Metal distortion guitar effect pedal gives a warm, smooth and wide range of vintage distortion sound. 3 Controls by Volume, Filter and Distortion

#TOP 49

NUX Recto Distortion Guitar Effec pedal the heavy distortion sound

NUX

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Reissue Series as a heavy distortion sound with tight bass response.
Pure analog circuit to simulate that typical American pre-amp high gain tone from the 90's
Bass and High Passive EQ
Extra amount of gain boost to the higher frequency for more "in-your-face" distortion effect
True-bypass Hardware Switching

Brands

BOSS

Essential Considerations to Keep in Mind When Looking for the Ideal distortion pedals for 80s metal

What reverb was used in the 80s?

Gated reverb Gated reverb was used on countless drum tracks during the 1980s, to the point that the sound became a defining characteristic of that decade's popular music.

What is the 80s sound called?

The 1980s saw the emergence of electronic dance music and new wave, also known as Modern Rock. As disco fell out of fashion in the decade's early years, genres such as post-disco, Italo disco, Euro disco, and dance-pop became more popular. Rock music continued to enjoy a wide audience.

Do you need distortion pedal for metal?

Metal and/or hard rock guitar players don't really need distortion pedals. If you have a decent tube amp or even a high-end solid state amp, the onboard distortion or "dirty" channel is almost always going to be a better distortion source than whatever pedal you can buy.

Do you need a distortion pedal for metal?

You Play Metal or Hard Rock It's best to start off by saying, that if you're playing metal or hard rock, then a distortion pedal will be very useful. If you get a high quality distortion pedal, then it will allow you to get the authentic tone characteristic of this genre.

What's the difference between overdrive and distortion?

What's the difference between overdrive and distortion? In short, a distortion pedal is a lot more aggressive than an overdrive pedal in the way that it affects your tone. An overdrive amp will boost your amplifier or will mimic a sound, whereas a distortion pedal will entirely alter your sound.

How do I get Metallica sound on my amp?

If you want to recreate Metallica's sound, you'll need an amp that can produce a high gain tone....Some common settings to get a saturated tone like Metallica's would be:

Gain: 8.
Treble: 6.
Mids: 3.
Bass: 6.
Presence: 6.
Depth: 6.

4 Apr 2023

Why do songs only last 3 minutes?

Radio stations were happy to prioritise three minute songs because they meant they could play more advertisements per hour. Similarly, record producers were equally supportive of the concept of multiple royalties from shorter songs, since most stations paid the artists after three minutes of aired track time.

What is a dirty guitar?

Clean sound is a pure tone coming from an instrument without any sound effects. Whereas dirty sound is distorted with fuzzy effects and sounds harsh – more suitable for rock and metal songs.

Why do most 80s songs fade out?

The eighties and most especially the alternative bands of the '90s who aspired to a more honest and natural aesthetic tried hard to come up with endings to songs. They wanted something that represented the live sound of the band. Fades were deemed a cop out and cheesy." The fade never went away.

Editor's Notes

All in all, our testing team spent 41 hours on the research before they come up with the compilation of the 49 best distortion pedals for 80s metal out there. We've analyzed over 459 of real buyers' reviews to get the full picture of the current situation on the market. In this selection, you'll find models with an average rating of 435 - so rest assured all of them are worth your consideration.

Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.