The MXR M104 Distortion+ Distortion Pedal is already famous in the world of guitar effects. Known for its raw, gritty tone and straightforward design, this pedal has been a favorite among guitarists for decades.
Used for classic rock, punk, or blues, the Distortion+ offers a distinct sound that cuts through the mix. Its simplicity and reliability have made it a staple on pedalboards since the 1970s, and its reissue continues to win over new generations of players. Let’s look into what makes this pedal so special.
A Pedal with History
The Distortion+ first hit the scene in the late 1970s, quickly earning a reputation for its aggressive yet musical tone. It became a key part of iconic guitar sounds, like Randy Rhoads’ searing solos on Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train.”
While it’s often overshadowed by flashier modern pedals, the Distortion+ has a loyal following thanks to its no-nonsense approach. The reissued M104 model stays true to the original, keeping the same circuitry and vibe while updating durability for today’s gigging musicians.
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MXR Design
One of the first things you’ll notice about the MXR M104 is its simple design. The pedal sports a bright orange and yellow casing that’s hard to miss on a crowded board. It’s built like a tank, with a sturdy metal chassis that can handle years of stomping.
The compact size makes it easy to fit into any setup, and the single footswitch is responsive and quiet. Unlike some pedals that feel fragile, the Distortion+ is clearly made to last.
The controls are just as straightforward. There are only two knobs: Output and Distortion. The Output knob adjusts the overall volume, letting you match the pedal’s level to your amp or other effects.
The Distortion knob controls the amount of gain, from a mild crunch to a saturated roar. There’s no tone control, which might seem limiting at first, but this simplicity forces you to focus on your playing and your amp’s natural character. What you lose in tweakability, you gain in immediacy and vibe.
MXR Distortion+ Connectivity
Plugging in the Distortion+ reveals why it’s stood the test of time. The sound is raw and organic, with a mid-focused growl that sits perfectly in a band mix. Unlike modern high-gain pedals that compress your tone, the Distortion+ keeps your dynamics intact.
Dig into your strings, and the pedal responds with extra bite. Lighten your touch, and it cleans up nicely, especially if you roll back your guitar’s volume knob. This responsiveness makes it feel like an extension of your amp rather than a separate effect.
The gain range is versatile without being overwhelming. At lower settings, the Distortion+ adds a warm, bluesy edge to your sound. Crank the Distortion knob, and it delivers a raucous, punk-rock snarl.
It’s not the pedal for djent or modern metal, but for classic rock, garage, or gritty blues, it’s hard to beat. The lack of a tone control means your amp’s EQ plays a big role in shaping the sound. Pair it with a bright amp, and the pedal can sound sharp and cutting. Through a darker rig, it takes on a thicker, smoother character.
Combining Pedals
One of the Distortion+’s secret weapons is how well it stacks with other pedals. Run it into a clean amp for classic overdrive tones, or push an already crunchy amp into singing lead territory.
It also pairs beautifully with boosters, overdrives, or even fuzz pedals. For example, placing a tubescreamer-style pedal before the Distortion+ can tighten up the low end and add extra sustain. Experimentation is key, and the pedal’s simple design encourages creative setups.
The M104 features true bypass switching, ensuring your tone stays pure when the pedal is off. This is a big plus for players who hate the tone suck that comes with cheaper buffered bypass circuits.
Powering the pedal is easy—it runs on a standard 9-volt battery or an external adapter. Battery life is decent, but as with most pedals, an adapter is recommended for regular use. The battery compartment is easy to access, though, which is a nice touch for quick changes.
MXR Distortion+ Uses
Who should try the MXR Distortion+? If you’re after a plug-and-play pedal that delivers instant attitude, this is it. It’s perfect for players who want to spend less time tweaking and more time playing. The lack of a tone control might frustrate some, but for others, it’s a blessing.
You’ll need to rely on your guitar’s tone knobs and your amp’s settings to shape the sound, which can lead to a more interactive playing experience. If you’re into vintage tones or genres that thrive on raw energy, this pedal deserves a spot on your board.
That said, the Distortion+ isn’t for everyone. If you need surgical EQ controls, multiple gain stages, or modern high-gain sounds, look elsewhere. This pedal thrives on simplicity and attitude, not versatility.
Some players might also find it a bit too bright or lacking in low-end thump, depending on their setup. But these “flaws” are part of its charm—it’s a pedal with personality, not a sterile tone-shaper.
Final Recommendations
Price-wise, the MXR M104 sits in the mid-range for distortion pedals. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s far from boutique pricing. For the build quality and iconic sound, it’s a solid investment.
You can find it at most music stores or online retailers, making it easy to track down. Whether you’re a gigging musician or a bedroom player, the Distortion+ offers pro-level performance without breaking the bank.
In a world of overly complicated gear, the MXR Distortion+ is a breath of fresh air. It does one thing and does it exceptionally well: delivering raw, musical distortion that feels alive. Its simplicity forces you to focus on your playing, and its rugged build means it’ll survive whatever you throw at it.
From classic rock riffs to punk power chords, this pedal has the guts and glory to inspire. If you’ve never tried a Distortion+, you owe it to yourself to give this legend a spin. It might just become your new secret weapon.