OD-850 Overdrive (reissue)
The Ibanez OD-850 Overdrive is a true classic that has stood the test of time. First introduced in the mid-1970s, this pedal has a devoted following among guitarists who crave that signature Ibanez tone. At its heart, the OD-850 is a powerhouse of analog circuitry that delivers a staggering range of overdrive - from a smooth, natural crunch to a full-on distortion assault. The secret lies in its three-knob control set: Sustain, Balance, and Tone. Dial in just the right amount of gain with the Sustain knob, then shape the midrange presence and high-end bite with the Balance and Tone controls. What makes the OD-850 truly special is its ability to retain clarity and articulation, even at high gain settings. Chords remain defined, and single notes sing with singing, singing sustain. This pedal excels at pushing a tube amp into sweet, creamy overdrive territory, but it's also more than capable of handling high-gain modern rock and metal tones. The OD-850's reissue status makes it a must-have for vintage tone chasers, but its versatility means it will find a home on the pedalboards of guitarists across genres. Ibanez has done a masterful job of recapturing the magic of the original, ensuring this legendary overdrive pedal will continue to inspire players for years to come.
