the OS-2 was the second pedal I bought in high school with my dishwashing money, after the CH-1 and once I figured out that the "distortion" channel on the no-name practice amp I had sounded like total butt. honestly it might still be my favorite! it's such a cool way to get some "stacked pedal"-type sounds without needing two pedals. 2:00 on the color knob is such a great sound, I lived in that for years and years.
Nice clip. I bought this pedal two days ago at the Guitarfair I organize yearly because it was cheap. I didn't listen to it (because I actually was too busy), but yesterday, when checking it out in my studio, at first I was somewhat disappointed. No big deal, but still. However, your video shines some light on the pedal and I will definitely check it out some more, following your advice to mix a little overdrive with the distortion! 👌
I got one one of these pedals in the early 2000s because I couldn't afford much equipment, and the OS-2 gave me options for classic rock tones as well as crunchier, more saturated metal sounds. I remember mentioning it to people when we talked setups and they'd say: 'not as good as either, in other words!' which may be true, but as you've just demonstrated that doesn't automatically mean bad.
This unit has been in production since 1990, that’s 33 years! It obviously still sells despite its pretty low profile. At certain settings it gives that perfect Keith Scott sound! Think Bryan Adams Reckless album!
The distortion half of the OS-2 is basically a clone of the Rat. Knobs will have differing tapers perhaps, but the sounds should be there. Rare for boss to nick a circuit from another manufacturer, but the Rat is an excellent choice!