
Anthony Easton
The Maxon DS830 Distortion Master is a high-gain distortion pedal designed to deliver an amp-like character, making it suitable for classic rock guitar tones reminiscent of Marshall JCM800/900. Despite its modest array of controls, the DS830 is highly flexible, capable of generating insane amounts of gain while retaining remarkable evenness and transparency. It is also capable of producing lightly overdriven blues tones and semi-clean solo boosts at lower gain settings.
Key Technical Specifications:
- Input Impedance: 500K Ohms
- Input Jack: 1/4 inch standard phone jack
- Output Impedance: 10K Ohms or less
- Output Jack: 1/4 inch standard phone jack
- Equivalent Input Noise: -114 dB (VR Max)
- Residual Noise: -110 dB (Level, VR Min)
- Maximum Gain: +59 dB (VR Max) (At 1 KHz)
- Controls: Gain, Bass, Treble, Level
- Switch: Normal/Effect
- Power Supply: 9V Manganese dry cell battery (S-006P) or special AC adaptor
- Power Voltage: DC9 V (Battery) / DC10 V (AC-adaptor)
- Current Consumption: 8 mA (9 V)
- AC Adaptor: AC210N (option) Input: AC120V Output: DC9V/200 mA Center - /
Sleeve +
- Dimensions (whole): 117 mm (W) x 150 mm (D) x 60 mm (H)
- Weight: 500 g
- Accessories: 9V Manganese dry cell battery (S-006P) x 1, Maxon AC210N
Adaptor: (9VDC/200mA), Non-skid pad x 1, Warranty Card x 1, User's Manual x 1
The DS830 features a dual-stage clipping design in its gain section, combining the classic “808” clipping with a pair of diodes to ground, resulting in a "chewy" pedal voice. The pedal also includes complex tone controls that act as an active two-band filter, changing the gain of the treble and bass frequencies going into the Op Amp. The Bass and Treble controls are highly interactive and complementary, providing a wide range of tone-shaping possibilities.
The DS830 features buffered, Mechanical bypass switching with a low impedance output, allowing it to drive long cable lengths or other effect units without signal loss.
Watch the latest video demos and reviews for the DS830 Distortion Master from YouTube. Stompbx updates this every six months to reflect the most popular reviewers and guitar pedal demos for each pedal.

Below are live Reverb listings for the Maxon DS830 Distortion Master from Reverb. Stompbx automatically aggregates current offers to give you a quick look at available models, conditions, and prices. Perfect for comparing options and making an informed purchase.

Very Good
$94.05

Brand New
$269

Excellent
$149

Brand New
$196.16

Very Good
$137.76

Brand New
$269

Excellent
$149

Browse through eBay listings for the DS830 Distortion Master compiled in real-time. From vintage finds to brand-new units, see a variety of purchasing options. This automated collection helps you explore deals and find the right pedal at the right price.

New
$269.00

New
$269.00

New
$145.05

Used
$108.39

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Check out the latest news and articles from around the pedal world.

Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton
Anthony Easton