BOSS OD-1 Over Drive – Vintage 1981 Made in Japan | NEC C4558C | Long Dash | Black Label

Classic Early Japanese-Made BOSS Overdrive – Desirable NEC C4558C Version

Offered here is a vintage BOSS OD-1 Over Drive pedal, manufactured in Japan and estimated to date from November 1981.

This example features the desirable NEC C4558C operational amplifier, long-dash OD-1 logo, black pedal screw, and classic Japanese-made construction.

The OD-1 was introduced in 1977 as one of the original BOSS compact pedals and helped establish the sound and design of modern overdrive effects.

Today, early Japanese-made OD-1 pedals remain highly regarded among vintage BOSS collectors, guitarists, and enthusiasts of classic analog overdrive.

Serial Number: 124800

Based on commonly referenced BOSS serial number dating information, this pedal is estimated to have been manufactured around November 1981.

Vintage Features & Highlights

• Made in Japan (MIJ) – Classic early Japanese BOSS production
• Circa November 1981 – Estimated manufacturing date
• NEC C4558C Op-Amp – Desirable vintage dual operational amplifier
• Long Dash OD-1 Logo – Distinctive early-production appearance
• Black Pedal Screw – Period-specific vintage detail
• Black Label Version – Classic Japanese-made OD-1 specification
• Original Two-Knob Design – Simple Level and Over Drive controls
• Analog Overdrive Circuit – Classic warm and responsive overdrive
• Tested and Working – Normal operation confirmed

These features make this OD-1 an appealing example of the early Japanese-made BOSS overdrive era.

The Legendary BOSS OD-1 Sound

The BOSS OD-1 is one of the most historically significant overdrive pedals ever produced.

Introduced in 1977, it helped define the smooth, expressive, and amplifier-like overdrive sound that would influence generations of guitar effects.

Unlike a conventional high-gain distortion pedal, the OD-1 is designed to add musical drive while preserving much of the natural character and dynamics of the guitar.

Its distinctive asymmetric clipping design produces rich harmonics and a responsive playing feel.

The result is a warm, dynamic overdrive that responds naturally to picking strength and guitar volume adjustments.

The OD-1 is especially suitable for:

• Blues: Expressive, touch-sensitive overdrive with natural sustain
• Classic Rock: Warm crunch and dynamic rhythm tones
• Lead Guitar: Smooth overdrive with rich harmonic content
• Tube Amplifier Boosting: Adds drive and pushes an amplifier into natural breakup
• Vintage Guitar Tones: Classic analog overdrive character
• Pedal Stacking: Works well with other overdrive and distortion pedals

The OD-1 remains a highly musical effect for players who value dynamics, simplicity, and vintage analog tone.

Desirable NEC C4558C Op-Amp Version

One of the most interesting features of this particular pedal is its NEC C4558C dual operational amplifier.

Different production periods of the vintage BOSS OD-1 used different operational amplifier components.

The NEC C4558C is one of the recognized vintage dual-op-amp variants associated with early Japanese-made OD-1 pedals.

For collectors, the installed operational amplifier is an important identifying detail when comparing vintage production variations.

This pedal provides an opportunity to own a classic NEC C4558C-equipped OD-1 from the early 1980s.

The exact sound of any vintage pedal also depends on its complete circuit, component tolerances, condition, and the equipment used with it.

Simple Two-Knob Control

The OD-1 features the original two-control layout that became a hallmark of early BOSS overdrive pedals.

LEVEL

Adjusts the overall output volume.

It can be used to balance the effect with the bypassed signal or to increase the signal level driving an amplifier.

OVER DRIVE

Controls the amount of overdrive and saturation.

Lower settings provide subtle breakup and dynamic enhancement, while higher settings produce stronger overdrive and additional sustain.

The straightforward design makes it easy to find musical tones without complicated adjustments.

Condition & Operation

Condition: Used – Very Good (Vintage)

This pedal has been tested and is currently working properly.

The overdrive effect and basic pedal operation have been confirmed.

The pedal produces the characteristic BOSS OD-1 overdrive sound.

As a vintage electronic device, it may show minor age-related characteristics during use.

Please examine all listing photographs carefully for the exact condition.

Cosmetic Condition

This pedal was manufactured more than four decades ago and shows signs of previous use and natural aging.

Visible cosmetic wear includes:

• Scratches and surface scuffs
• Small paint chips and finish wear
• Dirt and discoloration
• Oxidation on metal hardware
• Wear around the edges and corners
• Other age-related cosmetic imperfections

These characteristics are consistent with a vintage effects pedal.

The item is offered in the condition shown in the photographs.

Please review all images carefully before purchasing.

Specifications

• Brand: BOSS / Roland
• Model: OD-1 Over Drive
• Effect Type: Analog Overdrive
• Country of Manufacture: Japan
• Estimated Manufacturing Date: November 1981
• Serial Number: 124800
• Operational Amplifier: NEC C4558C
• Logo: Long Dash
• Pedal Screw: Black
• Label Version: Black Label
• Controls: Level, Over Drive
• Color: Yellow
• Condition: Used – Very Good
• Operation: Tested and Working

Power Supply – Important

This vintage BOSS OD-1 was designed for the original ACA-series power supply system.

It can be powered using a standard 9V battery or a suitable BOSS ACA-type power adapter.

When powering the pedal directly through the DC input, an appropriate older ACA-type supply, typically 12V DC, center-negative, should be used.

A standard modern 9V DC adapter may not provide the correct operating voltage when connected directly to this vintage pedal.

Please confirm the compatibility of your power supply before use.

Included Items

• BOSS OD-1 Over Drive pedal only

No original box, power supply, battery, manual, or other accessories are included.

Please refer to the listing photographs for the exact item included.

A Classic Piece of BOSS History

The BOSS OD-1 occupies an important place in the history of guitar effects.

As one of the original compact BOSS pedals introduced in 1977, it helped establish the overdrive sound that continues to influence guitarists today.

Early Japanese-made examples are particularly interesting to collectors because of their production-era details, electronic components, and historical significance.

This circa-1981 example combines the desirable NEC C4558C operational amplifier, long-dash logo, and vintage Japanese construction.

Whether you are expanding a collection of vintage BOSS pedals or searching for the classic OD-1 sound, this pedal offers an appealing combination of history, musical character, and functionality.

A wonderful opportunity to own an early Japanese-made BOSS OD-1 Over Drive.

Shipping

The pedal will be carefully and securely packed to protect it during international transportation.

We ship from Japan and take great care when preparing vintage musical equipment for overseas delivery.

Tracking information will be provided when available.

International shipping times may vary depending on the destination country, customs clearance procedures, local delivery conditions, and circumstances beyond the seller's control.

Delays caused by customs processing or local delivery services may occur.

Important Notice for International Buyers

Import duties, customs duties, VAT, taxes, brokerage fees, and customs clearance or handling charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Any applicable additional charges are the responsibility of the buyer.

Please check your country's customs regulations and possible import costs before purchasing.

This item is a pre-owned vintage electronic device manufactured more than four decades ago.

Although it has been tested and is currently operating properly, vintage electronic components may deteriorate over time and could require future servicing or maintenance.

Long-term operation cannot be guaranteed.

The pedal shows cosmetic wear consistent with its age and previous use.

Please review all photographs, specifications, power requirements, and included accessories carefully before purchasing.

The item is offered in its current described and photographed condition, subject to applicable Reverb buyer protection and return policies.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.

Thank you for viewing this vintage BOSS OD-1 Over Drive from Japan!