The 10th version of DOD's classic OD250 overdrive preamp is landing mid-October, and it's bringing some genuinely useful additions to the formula.
DOD has released a new version of their well-loved OD250 overdrive preamp pedal, with new specs that’ll win over appreciators of the original. The 250-X keeps everything that made the first iteration a studio and stage staple, while adding three distinct clipping modes that expand its range considerably.
Catch up on all the latest news here.
Purists of DOD’s classic OD250 overdrive preamp will appreciate that they haven’t messed with what works. The gain and level controls use the same potentiometer values and tapers as the original, so the feel and response are familiar. True hard-wire bypass and 18V-tolerant circuitry (running on standard 9V DC power) round out the practical updates.
Key specs:
- Three clipping modes: Silicon, Asym, Lift
- 9V DC power supply input
- 18V-tolerant circuitry
- True hard-wire bypass
- Original OD250 control feel and taper
The three-position toggle is where things open up. Silicon mode gives you the original 250 sound: straightforward, reliable overdrive. Flip to Asym and you’re into asymmetrical even-harmonic distortion territory, which sounds and feels noticeably different.
Lift mode takes a different approach by removing diode clipping entirely. Set conservatively, it’s a clean boost. Turn the gain up and you’re pushing the LM741 op-amp hard enough that it clips naturally, becoming less controlled and more characterful. What’s useful here is that these aren’t just minor tweaks. Silicon handles standard overdrive duties, Asym changes the harmonic profile completely and Lift operates as either transparent gain or gritty drive depending on your settings. Covering that much ground with one pedal helps when you’re trying to keep things lean on your board.
The DOD 250-X will be available mid-October. For local enquiries, head here.
