Up for sale is an incredibly clean, 100% operational icon of rock history: a vintage 1986 Made in Japan Boss DS-1 Distortion. This is the highly sought-after "Black Label" version from the golden era of Roland Japanese production, known for its distinctively warm tone, smooth clip, and incredible harmonic character, thanks to the legendary, long-discontinued Toshiba TA7136AP pre-amplifier integrated circuit, which gave the original Japanese pedals a warmer, more organic crunch than modern versions.

Dating & Authenticity:

  • Production Date: December 1986 (Verified by the crisp internal serial sticker #739000 inside the battery compartment)
  • Country of Origin: Made in Japan (Roland)
  • Label Type: Original black bottom label in good shape (Bottom left corner a little lifted)

Condition Notes:

  • Cosmetic: Very Good to Excellent vintage condition. The classic orange finish has only minor, honest play-wear along the chassis edges. The top faceplate graphics and text are exceptionally clean, and all three knobs retain their original silver caps.
  • Electronics: 100% fully functional. Pots turn cleanly with zero noise, the foot switch is responsive, and the red LED indicator light works exactly as it should. The battery compartment and terminal clip are pristine.
  • Modifications: None. Unmodified, pure vintage circuit.

Please Note: This vintage unit requires a standard legacy Boss 12V ACA power supply (or a 9V battery) to operate at full voltage, unless powered on a daisy-chain from a modern 9V supply with other standard pedals.

Shipping & Store Policies:

Shipping: Ships via Reverb Calculated Safe Shipping with Signature Required from Austin, TX. It will be packed securely with the utmost care to ensure it arrives in the exact condition shown.

Return Policy: Sold As-Described / No Returns. Please view the gallery, read this entire description, and ask any questions before purchasing.

This item is sold As-Described

This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.

Listed3 days ago
ConditionVery Good (Used)
Very Good items may show a few slight marks or scratches but are fully functional and in overall great shape.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • DS-1 Distortion (Black Label)
Finish
  • Orange
Categories
Year
  • 1986
Made In
  • Japan
Pedal Format
  • Standard

Product safety information may be available here.

The Johnny Talpas Collection

Austin, TX, United States
Joined Reverb:2025

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