Boss Drive Zone OD-20 User Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of BOSS OD-20 Overdrive/Distortion.
Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY”
and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (separate sheet).
These sections provide important information concerning the proper operation of the unit.
Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature
provided by your new unit, this manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be
saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.
Main Features
● Thanks to COSM technology, this distortion pedal delivers some of the most powerful
distortion you’ve ever heard. You get 22 different kinds of distortion sound, from vintage
classics to new, original sounds.
● Features ATTACK SHAPE for changing the picking expression, and a HEAVY OCTAVE
feature, which produces a fat octave sound, allowing you to create an even wider variety of
sounds.
● With four Memories plus Manual, you can use the pedal to switch through a total of five
sounds.
● Built-in Amp Control feature makes it possible to switch amp channels and perform other
controls that make your setup even more powerful when combined with an amp.
Copyright © 2001 BOSS CORPORATION
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may
be reproduced in any form without the written
permission of BOSS CORPORATION.

Boss Drive Zone OD-20 Specifications

General

Brand	Boss
Model	Drive Zone OD-20
Category	Music Pedal
Language	English

Summary

Main Features Overview

COSM Distortion Capabilities

Highlights 22 distortion sounds powered by COSM technology.

Advanced Sound Shaping Features

Focuses on ATTACK SHAPE and HEAVY OCTAVE for unique sonic textures.

Memory and Manual Modes

Enables switching between 4 memory slots and manual mode for versatile sound selection.

Amp Control Integration

Features built-in Amp Control for channel switching and enhanced setup integration.

Installing Batteries

Battery Installation and Handling

Instructions for correct battery insertion and safe handling of the unit.

Battery Life and Usage Notes

Information on battery types, expected usage duration, and replacement advice.

Making the Connections

Powering the Unit

Guidance on recommended power sources and connection procedures.

Connection Precautions

Details on preventing noise, cable selection, and correct power sequencing.

Connecting to Audio Equipment

Connecting to Guitar Amp

Diagram and advice for hooking up the OD-20 to a guitar amplifier.

Connecting to MTR or Mixer

Diagram showing connection to multitrack recorders or mixers.

EFFECT ON/OFF Pedal Operation

MANUAL/MEMORY Pedal Operation

Pedal Mode Selection Guide

Explains three pedal modes affecting MANUAL/MEMORY pedal functionality.

Changing Pedal Mode Settings

Panel Operation Guide

Guitar Amp Channel Switching

Storing Settings (Write Operation)

Changing Memory Sound Settings

Front Panel Controls and Functions

Knob Descriptions

Details the function of DRIVE, BOTTOM, TONE, LEVEL, ATTACK SHAPE, and HEAVY OCTAVE knobs.

Front Panel Components

Buttons and Indicators

Describes the TYPE Knob, VARIATION Button, AMP CTRL Button, and various indicators.

TYPE List and Variations

Rear Panel Connections

Memory Indicator Lighting Patterns

Returning Settings to Factory Defaults

Troubleshooting

Power and Sound Issues

Addresses common problems like no power, low volume, or sound quality.

Connection and Amp Control Issues

Troubleshoots amp channel switching and connectivity problems.

Sample Settings

Distortion and Overdrive Examples

Provides example settings for crunch, overdrive, fat distortion, and metal sounds.

Sample Settings

Metal and Fuzz Sound Examples

Offers settings for bright metal, radical fuzz, and factory default Loud.

Sample Settings

Lead, OD-1, and Stack Examples

Presents settings for Lead, OD-1, and Stack factory presets.

Setting Memo

Specifications

Technical Specifications

Details nominal levels, impedance, dynamic range, dimensions, and weight.

Regulatory Information

Compliance and Statements

Contains FCC, CE, and Canadian interference statements.