Boss ODB-3 Bass Overdrive Review
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Pedal Info
It's a simple fact that guitar players love overdrive and distortion pedals. This is seen in the simple variety and range of these pedals that are available for guitar players. It's also a fact that bass players don't have as many options when it comes to overdrive-type pedals. Fortunately, a few companies have realized this disparity and have tried to address it. Leave it to Boss, one of the top pedal manufacturers around, to offer bass players some viable solutions. One option is the popular Boss ODB-3 Bass overdrive.
Thankfully, Boss recognizes that bass players need overdrive and distortion too. The ODB-3 is not an overdrive pedal that "also" works with bass. It has been specifically tailored to work with the low frequencies of the bass guitar, including five string basses.
In addition to a wide range of drive (capable of subtle overdrive to full-on distortion), the ODB-3 offers a two-band EQ that can be used with or without the overdrive. Finally, a blend knob lets you choose how much overdrive you want mixed with the original clean sound.
User Reviews
Users of the Boss ODB-3 are generally pleased with their purchase. The pedal receives praise for its versatility and array of features in a small package. Gigging bassists are pleased with the wide range of overdrive and distortion sounds that are available. Several players also often use the pedal simply as a boost or EQ modifier by using the balance knob to eliminate the overdriven sound. The pedal seems particularly popular with rock and metal players, who note that the overdrive even works well with a low "B" string.
The most prominent criticism regards the battery life. Typically, overdrives and distortions don't drain battery life like delays and reverbs, but the ODB-3 generally gets around three - four hours per battery. The optional Boss adapter is an additional $20, something most users feel is excessive. A few players admit to only using the pedal as a boost or EQ and not an overdrive.
Summary
Name of Gear: Boss ODB-3 Bass Overdrive
List Price: $166.50
Street Price: $109.00
Manufacturer Info: Boss; bossus.com
Pros: Wide range of overdrive sounds; blend control; versatile EQ
Cons: Drains battery life; no adapter included
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