A “boost” pedal, also known as a “clean boost,” is a type of guitar effects pedal designed to increase the volume of the guitar signal without adding significant distortion or coloration to the tone. Boost pedals are used to amplify the signal level, allowing guitarists to achieve higher volume levels or to push their amplifier into overdrive for increased saturation and sustain.

Boost pedals typically feature a simple interface with controls for adjusting the level of boost, often represented by a single knob or a toggle switch. When engaged, the boost pedal increases the gain of the signal passing through it, effectively amplifying the sound. Unlike overdrive or distortion pedals, which introduce clipping and saturation to the signal, boost pedals aim to provide a clean and transparent volume increase.

Boost pedals are versatile tools that can serve various purposes in a guitarist’s rig:

1. **Volume Boost**: Boost pedals can be used to increase the volume of the guitar signal, allowing players to stand out during solos or to compensate for differences in volume between guitars or pickup settings.

2. **Overdrive Stacking**: Boost pedals are commonly used to push the front end of an overdrive or distortion pedal, resulting in increased saturation and sustain. By placing the boost pedal before a drive pedal in the signal chain, guitarists can achieve higher levels of gain and distortion without sacrificing clarity or dynamics.

3. **Amp Pushing**: Boost pedals can also be used to drive the input stage of a tube amplifier harder, causing the amp to naturally overdrive and produce a more saturated and harmonically rich tone. This is particularly useful for guitarists seeking to achieve classic tube amp breakup at lower volume levels.

4. **Tone Shaping**: Some boost pedals feature EQ controls or tone shaping options, allowing guitarists to tailor the frequency response of their signal. These pedals can be used to boost specific frequencies or to shape the overall tonal characteristics of the guitar sound.

Overall, boost pedals are essential tools for guitarists looking to enhance their tone, increase volume levels, or drive their amplifier into overdrive for added saturation and sustain. Whether used as a standalone effect or in combination with other pedals, boost pedals offer versatility and flexibility in shaping the guitar sound.