MXR1973DistortionDistortion$Budget($50–250)
MXR Distortion+
Guitarists wanting the raw, aggressive vintage op-amp distortion sound that shaped later pedal designs.
Find on ReverbUsed-gear listings, graded conditionCheck prices on eBayBroader inventory, live auctions
Check your gain staging
Free tool — convert dBu/dBV, chain gain stages, and check your headroom before it clips.
Strengths
- Simple, aggressive op-amp clipping circuit became a template copied by countless later distortion pedals
- 2-knob (Output/Distortion) layout is instantly easy to use
- Compact, durable enclosure with widely available service parts
Trade-offs
- Can sound harsh/buzzy compared to more refined modern distortion circuits
- Non-true-bypass buffer colors your clean tone even when off
Full Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | MXR |
| Model | Distortion+ |
| Era | 1973 |
| Typical Price Tier | Budget ($50–250) |
| Effect Type | Distortion |
| Circuit | Analog |
| True Bypass | No |
| Power | 9V battery/adapter |
| Controls | 2 knobs |
| Tap Tempo | No |
| I/O | Mono in/out |
A relative used-market guide, not a live quote — real prices vary by condition, region, and timing. Check the Reverb/eBay links on any item for current listings.
Similar Distortion
Match Score Explorer
Weight what matters to your workflow. Every deck is re-scored live against your priorities, benchmarked against the MXR Distortion+.
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This deckMXR Distortion+
Match55
Flexibility28
Portability90
Ease of Maintenance78
Tonal Neutrality22
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Maintenance & Supplies
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