John Frusciante’s Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion

This pedal has been one of the longest-standing staples in John’s rig. He first mentioned using it in 1991, during the Blood Sugar Sex Magik studio sessions, and it has since been extensively featured on nearly every album he recorded with the Red Hot Chili Peppers. This includes the band’s latest release, Unlimited Love (see John Frusciante’s 2022 Pedalboard).

I have an Ibanez wah-wah pedal, because it has a wider range than the others. I use a Fuzzface and a Boss distortion pedal, and an MXR phase shifter, and that’s about it.

Guitar (UK), February 1991

(mainly in reference to ‘The Empyrean’ solo album:) I use the Boss Turbo Distortion pretty regularly, and an Electro-Harmonix English Muff’n tube fuzz, which has really extreme EQ and a big, thick, meaty sound.

Vintage Guitar (USA), April 2009

The Boss DS-2 Turbo Distortion was introduced in 1987 as a follow-up to the DS-1, offering greater versatility with its two modes: Standard (Mode I) for classic distortion and Turbo (Mode II) for a boosted midrange. Its ability to go from subtle overdrive to searing distortion made it a favorite among rock and alternative guitarists.