MXR Prime Overdrive Pedal - Black

The MXR Prime Overdrive pedal gives guitarists the responsive breakup of a classic drive circuit with extra control over how it sits in a rig. This Guitar Center Exclusive updates the circuit for a wider range of drive tones, from a touch of grit to the sound of an amp pushed toward breakup. The 100Hz control lets you trim low-end weight for a tighter response or add body and punch. A separate Bump switch engages an alternate EQ voice that boosts lows and mids. Together, those controls let you shape the overdrive around a rhythm part or give a lead more body. The pedal can add grit on its own or run before the MXR Prime Distortion for a broader range of gain textures.

A Classic Overdrive Circuit With More Range

The Prime Overdrive builds on a classic circuit with modifications that expand its tonal range. At the lighter end of that range, it can add a bit of grit to your base sound. It can also push an amp toward breakup when a part calls for more drive. That spread is useful when you're working with an amp sound you already like and want to add different degrees of breakup. The response suits rhythm parts that need a little edge as well as leads that call for a fuller drive sound.

Low-End Shaping With 100Hz and Bump Controls

The dedicated 100Hz knob adjusts how much weight the overdrive carries. Turn it down for a tighter, more focused response or turn it up to add body and punch. The Bump switch selects a second EQ voicing that boosts both lows and mids for a thicker sound. The two controls serve distinct purposes. The 100Hz knob lets you fine-tune the balance, while Bump changes the broader voicing. Use them to adjust the pedal when a rhythm part needs less low-end weight or a lead needs more body.

Responsive Drive on Its Own or Stacked

Used by itself, the Prime Overdrive can add light breakup to your base tone or push an amplifier toward a more saturated sound. MXR also suggests placing the Prime Distortion after the Prime Overdrive to build a wider range of gain textures, from mild grit to heavier saturation. That order gives you the option of using the overdrive for a lighter rhythm sound and bringing in the distortion when the part calls for more gain. For guitarists who want responsive breakup and dedicated EQ shaping, the Guitar Center Exclusive MXR Prime Overdrive pedal works as a standalone drive or as the first stage in that pairing.