Glossary
asymmetrical clipping
It produces both even and odd harmonics, resulting in harmonically rich distortion that sounds layered1. Players often describe it as smoother, more natural, and tube-sounding2, or as richer, more open, more dynamic, and more amp-like3. Compared with symmetrical clipping, it can deliver more punch, a wider feel, and slightly less compression4. It appears in pedals such as the Boss SD-1 and OD-115.
Sources (5)
- Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive: what makes it a classic pedal, guitarworld.com, 2023-01-16
- The Ultimate Tube Screamer Mod Guide, premierguitar.com, 2007-02-07
- How-Gain-Headroom-and-Clipping-Shape-Your-Tone.pdf, guitarpcb.com
- The Alkene Nashville Overdrive, browneamplification.com
- Boss overdrive pedals: the evolution of its essential stompboxes, guitarworld.com, 2021-09-28
