BOSS: DA-2 Adaptive Distortion

This is one of the 2013 BOSS trio to feature the new MDP (Multi-dimensional Processing) technology which the manufacturer says gives a bit more depth to tone. It's a distortion unit, nothing new there but the tones on board are likable.

Once again, I'm not too receptive to pedals featuring only a 2-band EQ control- low/high. It's perpetuating that scooped tone which works fine for personal, bedroom moments but when it comes to playing in a band, your tone sounds too muffled for the good of your reputation, you need more midrange to help you cut through the mix. Hmmm, BOSS might be engaging in a cost cutting exercise here, making each pedal with a definite 4-control feature each time. Whatever, makes you happy, BOSS.

I'm here to highlight the A-DIST control, simply put, it's the distortion intensity sweep. It's the usual mild to intense offering but you can virtually hear the other BOSS pedals spectral presence in there- DS-1/ DS-2/ BD-2 so in terms of voicings, you won't be short-changed when it comes to dynamics. 

I actually tried this pedal through a tube amp & put it to use in series with the amp's default drive. The amp in question is Ibanez's TA-15 so I'm basically cascading a distortion into a Tubescreamer & the results are above satisfactory. You can coax the DA-2 to add beef to some of the smoothest drive this side of Alan Holdsworth. Moving on to intensity, the DA-2's upper distortion reaches are metal ready; nothing too excessive but letting you transcend the crunchy territory into a convincing intense turf.

All in all, I love the DA-2 but this is not a personal recommendation; my like might be your turd but the DA-2 has enough personality & muscle to offer you something likable. However, a little caveat here, the DA-2 isn't an all-in-1 distortion unit. Hear it in action & understand what it has to offer.

PS: Thanks Swee Lee Co. for the review opportunity- Yadni for the Price quote & Faizal for the set-up once again.

BOSS DA-2 Adaptive Disotrtion

Price: $179 (nett) 

Availability: Swee Lee Co.