Maxon has released the latest incarnation of its SD-9 distortion stompbox—the Custom Shop SSD-9 Super Sonic Distortion.
Touted by Maxon as a “full-featured alternative to the tried & true original,” the Custom Shop SSD-9 is designed by ex-Maxon head engineer and Tube Screamer creator Susumu Tamura. The Super Sonic Distortion modification takes valuable feedback from professional guitarists as to how they can improve the stock SD-9 circuit into consideration.
The Custom Shop SSD-9 boasts a higher output level to drive signal chains harder. Meanwhile, the center frequency of the Tone dial also comes with some tweaks to allow more emphasis on lows and lower-midrange frequencies.
Not content with that, Maxon also attenuated the 1K range, which according to many users, makes the stock variant of the stompbox sound “fizzy” in higher settings. Per the press release, “The Super Sonic Distortion modifications produce a rich, thick Guitar tone with tube amp-like qualities and response.”
Ultimately, the Custom Shop SSD-9 Super Sonic Distortion now features true bypass switching and, at the request of many, several component tolerances adjustments to enable operation at 18V.
The SSD-9 Super Sonic Distortion from Maxon Custom Shop carries a street price of $199, with the first 50 units bearing Tamura’s autograph.
