BOSS OD-3 Compact Overdrive Pedal
- Overdrive with dynamic, amp-like feel
- 9 volts, 30 milliamps
- 1/4-inch mono jack connections
- Analog signal, knob controls
- 14 ounces, gold finish
- Five-year BOSS warranty
Last refreshed Oct 2, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A gold overdrive pedal for guitarists who want smooth, dynamic drive in a standard BOSS compact enclosure. The listing gives two sets of dimensions and does not list the knobs.
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ASIN: B0002CZVAKModel: OD-3Category: Distortion & Overdrive
Overview
A gold BOSS enclosure holds an analog overdrive circuit built in the tradition of earlier BOSS overdrives. Knobs shape the tone, and the pedal runs on battery power. The listing describes the response as warm and smooth with an amp-like feel.
The reason to look is a wider range of smooth overdrive tones than the older design, with improved response. The limit is documentation, since the pedal's controls are not named and the two dimension listings disagree.
Who it's for
Players stacking a drive onto a clean amp or a pedalboard will find the dynamic, amp-like voicing suitable. Those wanting extreme gain should look elsewhere, and bass players should note the style field lists bass and overdrive.
Pros and cons
- Smooth dynamic overdrive
- Analog signal path
- Long manufacturer warranty
- Standard compact format
- Controls not named
- Dimensions listed two ways
- Battery needs periodic replacement
- Bypass type not listed
Performance notes
The circuit adds drive in a way that follows how hard the guitar is played, which is the dynamic response the listing describes. It is an analog design, so there is no digital processing in the signal path. Gain character is tuned by the knobs.
Where it stands among distortion & overdrive
- #4 most-searched brand and model of the 28 distortion & overdrive lines we track (by search demand, not sales).
From the specs of the 15 distortion & overdrive we list; not a test result.
Specifications
| Brand | BOSS |
|---|---|
| Model | OD-3 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 5.95"L x 3.8"W x 2.7"H |
| Weight | 14 ounces |
| Capacity & performance | |
| Audio Output Effects | Overdrive |
| Power & efficiency | |
| Amperage | 30 milliamps |
| Power Source | Battery powered |
| Voltage | 9 volts |
| Construction & materials | |
| Color | Gold |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | Boss five-year warranty |
| Other details | |
| Control Type | Knob |
| Connector Type | 1/4 inch mono jack |
| Signal Format | Analog |
Closest rivals on specs
Electro-Harmonix Soul Food Transparent Overdrive Pedal- Amperage 0.03 vs 0.04 amps (-25%)
- Item Weight 0.88 vs 0.75 pounds (+17%)
EarthQuaker Devices Plumes Small Signal Shredder Overdrive Guitar Effects Pedal- Amperage 0.03 vs 0.01 amps (+200%)
Ibanez TS9 Model Overdrive Pedal- Amperage 0.03 vs 0.05 amps (-40%)
- Item Weight 0.88 vs 1 pounds (-12%)
Frequently asked questions
How big is the BOSS OD-3 pedal?
One dimension field gives 5.95 x 3.8 x 2.7 inches. Another gives 9 x 4 x 6 inches, so measure your pedalboard space with the smaller figure and confirm with the maker.
Is the BOSS OD-3 a distortion pedal?
The effect is listed as overdrive. The description talks about smooth overdrive tones.
Is the BOSS OD-3 for bass?
The title and description speak to guitarists, while the style field lists bass and overdrive.
How is the OD-3 powered?
It is listed as battery powered at 9 volts.