Best version of the BD-2

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Unicorn Warrior
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Best version of the BD-2

Post by Unicorn Warrior » Fri Dec 23, 2022 7:24 am

Thinking about adding a BD-2 because it seems to be a versatile drive. I’ve played them over the years at shops and they always seemed to be something I’ve jived with.

However, there’s all these different versions and mods. Which BD-2 should I get?

Current amps are Matchless Spitfire and JC-40. Only gain I’m actively using is a Benson Germanium Fuzz. I do plan to incorporate, my rat back in at some point.

I like the idea of an Angry Charlie for versatility, but I wonder if I’d be better served with the waza or some other version.

The BD-2 has been long hailed on this forum. What’s the consensus?
Last edited by Unicorn Warrior on Fri Dec 23, 2022 7:57 am, edited 1 time in total.

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by MrShake » Fri Dec 23, 2022 7:56 am

Okay, so it's not like you don't know what you're doing. But might I suggest picking up a used stock BD-2 (or better, one of the better-rated cheapie clones, there's gotta be an accurate one somewhere), spending 6 months with it, deciding what it's lacking, and going from there? FWIW, I've had the same one since '96 and never felt the need to switch it up. I know people love to mod them, but I've always wondered if that's, well, because they see that people love to mod them.

OR...

Is there something particular you like about it to help zero in on where some experts might be able to direct?

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by sal paradise » Fri Dec 23, 2022 7:58 am

I’d go for the Waza everyday over a vintage model for that custom mode.

But I’ve not played a W, nor been near a BD-2 for years. But I guess if your budget goes up there, May as well…
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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by Unicorn Warrior » Fri Dec 23, 2022 8:03 am

MrShake wrote:
Fri Dec 23, 2022 7:56 am
Okay, so it's not like you don't know what you're doing. But might I suggest picking up a used stock BD-2 (or better, one of the better-rated cheapie clones, there's gotta be an accurate one somewhere), spending 6 months with it, deciding what it's lacking, and going from there? FWIW, I've had the same one since '96 and never felt the need to switch it up. I know people love to mod them, but I've always wondered if that's, well, because they see that people love to mod them.

OR...

Is there something particular you like about it to help zero in on where some experts might be able to direct?
Thanks. Yes, I thought about that.

And to answer your question, there isn’t really anything specific I’m after except versatility. I don’t have a lot of drives on my board and would like it to cover as much ground as possible. Low, medium, and higher gain although that’s subjective. I realize it’s a versatile pedal in its own right and I like the sound on most demos and when I’ve tried them over the years in shops. Just never had one through my rig. Dependability is also important. I’m a novice at drives, so I thought I’d see what everyone’s take on this pedal

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by Telliot » Fri Dec 23, 2022 8:14 am

I agree with Sal on the Waza. It will give you the normal pedal on standard mode and updated modded version on the custom mode.

Here’s a good comparison.
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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by stevejamsecono » Fri Dec 23, 2022 9:01 am

Start stock and then you have a basis of comparison. The stock BD-2 is a great sound on its own.
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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by JSett » Fri Dec 23, 2022 10:06 am

I have two, I think one is a 90's one and the other is maybe 2010/11? They sound identical. And they sound great. I never felt a need to mod one as they do the job and sound great into almost every amp and sit in a mix very well. Absolute workhorse pedal.
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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by Nevets » Fri Dec 23, 2022 10:45 am

I have an unmodded BD-2 which I quite like as is. I also have a Valeton Loft mini version, with the custom mode. Also a very good sounding pedal.

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by Veitchy » Fri Dec 23, 2022 6:42 pm

I've only played the 'normal' version, but I'd be fine with that. I get that there are clones in mini pedal form-factors and whatnot, but those don't really appeal to me for a number of reasons. I'd check your local (insert classifieds website of preference here) and see if you can snag one.

If I had the cash and was buying another I'd personally look for the Waza one as I like what I've heard from the custom mode in that, and a bit of extra versatility is welcome. I like how much bottom end comes through on the BD-2 so something that punches that up is appealing, especially as I use one as a sort of stand-in fuzz from time to time.

The Angry Driver is interesting as a collaboration but I don't think I'd have the patience to learn the controls or invest in auxiliary switches to get the most out of it.

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by tequila_in_teacups » Fri Dec 23, 2022 6:55 pm

TC Electronic Cinders is a good cheap option. I have one, and it sounds great to me.

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by JSett » Fri Dec 23, 2022 8:22 pm

tequila_in_teacups wrote:
Fri Dec 23, 2022 6:55 pm
TC Electronic Cinders is a good cheap option. I have one, and it sounds great to me.
Good to know but, I mean, you can get a used BD-2 for next to nothing so there's almost no need to search out a clone IMHO. I think I paid £40 for my backup one and, being a Boss pedal, I'll probably never need it anyway.
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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by Futuron » Fri Dec 23, 2022 8:52 pm

Grab the original. Cheap & easy to find and will sound great.

But the Waza would be a great option if you want a bit more for more.

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by tequila_in_teacups » Fri Dec 23, 2022 9:49 pm

johnnysomersett wrote:
Fri Dec 23, 2022 8:22 pm
Good to know but, I mean, you can get a used BD-2 for next to nothing so there's almost no need to search out a clone IMHO. I think I paid £40 for my backup one and, being a Boss pedal, I'll probably never need it anyway.
True, but in this part of the world the BD-2 is not quite so abundant. And the last couple of used ones I saw for sale were listed at almost the new price. :wacko:

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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by JSett » Fri Dec 23, 2022 9:54 pm

tequila_in_teacups wrote:
Fri Dec 23, 2022 9:49 pm
johnnysomersett wrote:
Fri Dec 23, 2022 8:22 pm
Good to know but, I mean, you can get a used BD-2 for next to nothing so there's almost no need to search out a clone IMHO. I think I paid £40 for my backup one and, being a Boss pedal, I'll probably never need it anyway.
True, but in this part of the world the BD-2 is not quite so abundant. And the last couple of used ones I saw for sale were listed at almost the new price. :wacko:
That surprises me, considering your proximity to the source. That's a shame.
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Re: Best version of the BD-2

Post by tequila_in_teacups » Fri Dec 23, 2022 10:09 pm

johnnysomersett wrote:
Fri Dec 23, 2022 9:54 pm
That surprises me, considering your proximity to the source. That's a shame.
We just have a much smaller used market for guitar gear. While you can probably get on eBay any day of the week and find a cheap BD-2, it’s often more of a waiting game here.

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