Celebrate 50 Years of BOSS Guitar Tone At CME!

Founded as an offshoot of its parent company, Roland Corporation, BOSS has pioneered the development of unique and innovative gear for guitar and bass players of all styles since 1973.

Now, in celebration of the company’s 50th Anniversary, BOSS has unveiled three limited-edition stomp boxes: DS-1-B50A Distortion, SD-1-B50A Super OverDrive, and BD-2-B50A Blues Driver.

A Half-Century of BOSS

From heavy distortion to subtle crunch, BOSS compact pedals have remained the go-to for gain pedals for nearly 50 years. Renowned for their sound, rugged durability, and unique practical design, BOSS first launched the iconic compact series in 1977—and, since then, it’s been hard to find an experienced guitarist who hasn’t used one or more BOSS pedals at some point throughout their playing career.

Appearing in exclusive livery with a dedicated 4-digit serial number and bespoke packaging, each limited-edition pedal features the same beloved circuitry as its standard production counterpart but sports a metallic finish, silver thumb screw, gold-capped knobs, and a commemorative 50th-anniversary emblem. These collectible versions will be available in strictly limited numbers of no more than 7,000 units worldwide for each model.

DS-1-B50A Distortion

The iconic compact pedal design was unveiled in 1977, and BOSS released the multimillion-selling DS-1 Distortion the following year to wide acclaim. Prized for its edgy attack and smooth sustain, this classic stompbox can be heard on countless hit records.

SD-1-B50A Super OverDrive

Following on the heels of the game-changing OD-1 OverDrive released in 1977, BOSS released the SD-1 Super OverDrive, which features the added benefit of a tone control, in 1981. This workhorse gain machine has remained in production ever since, continuously gracing the pedalboards of beginners and pros worldwide.

BD-2-B50A Blues Driver

For those guitarists seeking a delicate, nuanced tone that allows a player’s technique to shine through, it’s hard to beat the popular BD-2 Blues Driver. Introduced in 1995, this acclaimed drive pedal is revered for its broad palette of sounds, touch sensitivity, and articulate, tube amp-like response.

Call CME, chat us online, or stop into our showroom today to shop BOSS 50th Anniversary pedals!

SHOP BOSS GEAR

Related Posts

Introducing | Divided By 13 Amplifiers

Shop Divided By 13 Amplifiers now at Chicago Music Exchange! Crafted in collaboration with Two-Rock Amplification, these boutique amps blend classic American and British voicings with modern innovation for studio-quality tone at any volume. From sparkling cleans and rich overdrive to vintage warmth and punchy British grit, Divided By 13 amps offer premium components, expert craftsmanship, and legendary versatility. Find your perfect tone—shop online or visit our showroom today! 

Read more

Marshall Amplifiers | 2025 Gear Arrivals

  Marshall Amplifiers has defined Rock and Roll sound for decades, and the 2025 lineup takes this legacy to new heights with powerful amplifiers and pedals. Featuring iconic models like the 1959 Modified 100w Amp Head, JCM800 Modified 100w Amp Head, and Studio 900 series, these releases offer unmatched tonal versatility and performance. Whether you're recording, performing, or creating your signature sound, Marshall's 2025 gear blends vintage tones with modern enhancements for clarity and power. Discover the latest Marshall innovation, including the JVM, JCM900, and DSL Pedals, available for order at Chicago Music Exchange now!

Read more

Martin Guitar | 2025 Acoustic Arrivals

Martin Guitar's iconic Standard Series gets a stunning refresh for 2025, combining vintage-inspired design with modern advancements. New models like the 000-17, D-17, and OM-45 showcase remarkable craftsmanship, tonal clarity, and elegant aesthetics. Updates like Golden Era Sitka spruce bracing, a GE Modified Low Oval Neck, and enhanced comfort features redefine playability while preserving Martin's timeless legacy. Explore the 2025 Martin Standard Series at Chicago Music Exchange and experience the evolution of acoustic excellence.

Read more