The Boss DS-1 is a popular distortion pedal used by guitarists to create a rich, saturated sound. Introduced in 1978, it features a simple layout with three knobs: Tone, Level, and Distortion, allowing players to easily adjust their sound. The pedal is known for its reliability and versatility, making it suitable for various music genres. This pedal has been embraced by many famous musicians, including Kurt Cobain and Joe Satriani, contributing to its iconic status in the music industry. The DS-1 is often praised for its ability to produce a warm distortion that enhances the natural tone of the guitar.