Up for sale is a vintage Boss DS-1 Distortion from 1990, featuring the original ACA power supply connector specs and the highly sought-after TA7136AP op-amp. This is a true transitional model, produced right after Boss moved DS-1 manufacturing from Japan to Taiwan, while still using the classic circuit that defined the iconic DS-1 sound. Rumor has it that the parts were still made in Japan and the pedal was only assembled in Taiwan.

Unlike later PSA-powered and surface-mount versions, this era DS-1 delivers the raw, aggressive, and harmonically rich distortion that made the pedal a staple on countless records. The TA7136AP op-amp is a key part of that tone and is widely regarded as something modern DS-1 reissues simply don’t replicate.

🔧 Condition & Service

• Very good condition for its age
• Fully checked, serviced, and test-played by Mad Slav Amps (Beaverton, OR)
• All pots and jacks are clean and quiet (no scratchiness)
• 100% functional and ready for studio or stage use

🎸 Why this DS-1 matters
The DS-1 is one of the most recorded distortion pedals of all time, used by players like Kurt Cobain, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, and John Frusciante. This transitional Taiwan/ACA version sits in a sweet spot between the early Japanese units and later mass-produced revisions, making it especially appealing to players and collectors alike.

If you’re after the classic DS-1 sound, authentic vintage circuitry, and a pedal that’s been properly vetted by a trusted amp tech, this one checks all the boxes.

Ships safely packed. Feel free to ask any questions!