
BOSS - DS-1W Waza Craft Edition Distortion
BOSS - DS-1W Distortion Stompbox, Waza Craft Special Edition, Classic & Custom Modes
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Waza Craft Edition Distortion
BOSS - DS-1W

A PRIME REDESIGNBirthed in 1978 alongside the earliest models in the BOSS compact series, the orange DS-1 redefined the sound of distortion and is still as influential today as ever. Its punchy attack and smooth sustain have made it the best-selling compact effect to date, and its distinctive tone has made signature sounds of a long list of rock and alternative legends. With the DS-1W, this iconic pedal joins other BOSS classics in the Waza Craft series, joining the look and character of the original with a newly revised discrete all-analogue circuit for enhanced range and versatility.
The DS-1 instantly impacted the guitar world when introduced, offeringa fresh new high-gain sound with aggressive, well-defined distortion rich in harmonic overtones. After over four decades, leading players in hard rock, metal, grunge, and fusion genres have used the pedal for their main sounds. The classic edge of the DS-1 can be heard on multiple hit tracks, both as a prime distortion for clean amp platforms and a boost to drive gained-up tube amps into controlled chaos.
At A Glance
• Special edition Waza Craft pedal delivers the ultimate BOSS tone experience
• Two modes offer increased versatility when the pedal is used as a gain booster
• Newly revised two-stage gain circuit with discrete analogue components
• Standard mode delivers the legendary sound of the original DS-1
• Premium buffer for clean and clear tone when bypassed
The Classic BOSS Distortion, Enhanced with Waza Craftsmanship

More Tonal RangeFeaturing two modes and a discrete all-analogue circuit design, the DS-1W expands the DS-1 experience for a wider range of styles and uses. Use Standard mode to play with the tight, hard-edged tone and singing sustain of the original pedal. Or switch to Custom mode for a bold new sound that takes the unmistakable DS-1 character to the next level.

Standard ModeStandard mode on the DS-1W offers the exact authentic sound of the original. The innovative two-stage gain circuit is a vital part of the fullness and definition that so many guitarists love about the DS-1. The tone control shapes low and high frequencies, simultaneously boosting and cutting each end of the frequency spectrum as the knob is turned. Allowing you to precisely dial in the sound for any application, from tight rhythms and searing solos to maintaining low-end clarity when boosting amps and other drive pedals.

Custom ModeCustom mode creates a unique new distortion voice while retaining the singular DS-1 personality and edge. A thick, mid-focused character adds fatness and cut to make your sound stand out in the mix, and the tone control is tuned to maximize the mode’s richness and presence. The available level has been increased by 6 dB, resulting in a wider range of gain boost for driving amps and pedals. With more input sensitivity, you can also add all sorts of distortion colours with picking dynamics and volume control adjustments on the guitar.

The Art of Superior ToneFrom the start, the engineers at BOSS have been committed to achieving the finest guitar tones using any technology necessary, from old-school analogue circuits to high-tech DSP. This passionate drive continues with the Waza Craft series, bringing you incredible tone and touch response using carefully selected analogue components, refined circuitry, and deep attention to detail. In Japan, “Waza” is the term for art and technique, and these special edition pedals proudly carry the Waza symbol to represent the pinnacle of BOSS design and craftsmanship.
BOSS DS-1W Distortion Pedal | Waza Craft

The Tech Spec
Features | Specification | Nominal Input Level | -20 dBu |
---|---|
Input Impedance | 1 M ohm |
Nominal Output Level | -20 dBu |
Output Impedance | 1 k ohm |
Recommended Load Impedance | 10 k ohms or greater |
Controls | Pedal switch Mode switch LEVEL knob TONE knob DRIVE knob |
Indicator | CHECK indicator (Serves also as battery check indicator) |
Connectors | INPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type DC IN jack |
Power Supply | Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61 or 6LF22) or Carbon-zinc battery (9 V, 6F22) AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately) |
Current Draw | 15 mA |
Expected battery life under continuous use (These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.) | Carbon: Approx. 25 hours Alkaline: Approx. 50 hours |
Accessories | Owner's Manual Leaflet ("USING THE UNIT SAFELY," "IMPORTANT NOTE," and "Information") Carbon-zinc battery (9 V, 6F22) |
Option (sold separately) | AC adaptor (PSA series) |
Dimensions | Width: 73 mm Depth: 129 mm Height: 59 mm |
Weight | 430 g 1 lb. |