A true icon of pedal design, the DOD 250 helped define the sound of rock guitar when it first appeared in the 1970s, offering grit and boost without the fizz of the fuzz boxes of the era. Now in its 10th iteration, the DOD Overdrive Preamp 250-X effects pedal celebrates that heritage while giving players even greater tonal flexibility. Retaining the vintage-correct LM741 op-amp and the same Gain and Level controls that made the original so intuitive, the 250-X faithfully captures the raw, responsive feel of the classic pedal. At the same time, added switching options and modern updates make this stompbox a versatile workhorse worthy of any modern pedalboard.
Authentic Controls for Effortless Tone Shaping
One of the reasons the original 250 became so beloved was its simplicity—just Gain and Level, designed with pot values and tapers that feel musical across their entire range. The 250-X preserves that experience, giving players the same familiar control response that invites experimentation. From subtle grit that adds warmth and presence to your signal to saturated overdrive that snarls with authority, the two-knob interface makes it easy to dial in your sweet spot. Whether stacking with other pedals or running straight into an amp, the 250-X responds with the same dynamic character that made the original a classic.
Three Distinct Modes for Unlimited Expression
The real leap forward with the 250-X comes in its new three-position toggle switch. In "Silicon" mode, you’ll find the symmetrical clipping of the stock 250—tight, focused and perfect for classic crunch. Flip to "Asym" and the clipping becomes asymmetrical, introducing richer, even-harmonic distortion that adds complexity and vocal-like texture. For even more flexibility, "Lift" mode eliminates the diodes completely, turning the pedal into a powerful clean boost at lower settings or a raw, dirty boost when you push the op-amp harder. These three modes make the 250-X not just an overdrive, but a full toolbox of gain stages.
Vintage Heart With Modern Reliability
While the 250-X proudly carries the DNA of the original, it’s been updated for the needs of modern players. At its core is the same LM741 op-amp that defined the ’70s design, delivering vintage-correct tone and feel. But paired with it is circuitry that tolerates up to 18 volts, letting you experiment with different power supplies for added headroom. True hard-wire bypass ensures your tone stays pure when the pedal is off, and the rugged aluminum chassis makes it road-ready. With a modern 9V DC power input, the 250-X easily integrates into any pedalboard setup without hassle.
Compact Stompbox Design Built for Real-World Use
Measuring just 4.68" x 2.63" x 2.25" and weighing a little over half a pound, the 250-X is compact enough for even the tightest boards yet built tough to endure years of gigging. Its simple I/O makes it plug-and-play friendly—just instrument in, instrument out, and you’re ready to shape your sound. From bedroom players to touring pros, the updated DOD 250-X provides legendary tone in a format that’s as practical as it is inspiring. Every detail has been thought through to make this the ultimate evolution of a true pedalboard staple.
The DOD 250-X: Timeless Tone Meets Modern Versatility
With its faithful recreation of the original control feel, expanded mode options and bulletproof construction, the DOD Overdrive Preamp 250-X effects pedal takes a timeless classic into the modern age. It’s more than just a reissue—it’s an evolution designed to give today’s guitarists the same magic as the ’70s pedal with far more sonic range. Whether you want a touch-sensitive overdrive, a harmonically rich distortion or a clean-to-dirty boost, the 250-X has it covered. For players chasing vintage tone with modern flexibility, this pedal delivers on every front.