The Marc F'N Ford OD/Boost is a dual-channel overdrive/boost pedal from BMF Effects, built to the specifications of guitarist Marc Ford and released on September 3, 20181. It couples two of the company's existing designs, the Purple Nurple Overdrive and the GB Boost Germanium Booster, in one heavy-duty enclosure with a powder coat finish1. Premier Guitar's press release describes the result as "actually a three-channel pedal: boost, overdrive, and boosted drive"1.
The controls on each side
Each side of the pedal is a simple, familiar arrangement of two knobs341:
| Side | Circuit | Controls |
|---|---|---|
| Left | Purple Nurple overdrive | Volume, Gain (labeled "Drive" on the panel)13 |
| Right | GB Boost germanium booster | Volume, Tone13 |
The Purple Nurple side is described by MusicRadar's reviewers as "a simple IC-driven circuit with volume and drive controls"4. The GB Boost side has a different lineage: MusicRadar describes it as "a design based upon the vintage classic Dallas Rangemaster germanium treble booster"4. The two circuits can be switched independently, and with both sides engaged the signal runs, per Marc's specifications, from the GB Boost into the Purple Nurple1.
Using the two sides together
Although the pedal has two channels, BMF Effects describes it as offering three modes: boost, overdrive, and boosted drive1. The maker's product page states, "Each side operates independently and can be stacked for even more tonal options"2. In practice that means running the germanium boost alone for treble lift, the overdrive alone, or both together with the boost pushing the drive.
Power and connections
The pedal runs on 9v DC through a DC jack2. Premier Guitar's press release specifies "9-volt operation and standard DC input (no special power supply required)"1, so it fits a normal pedalboard supply. MusicRadar's reviewers noted the pedal's "Four jacks/separate connections may be useful for some"4, giving each side its own connections. The same review found that the pedal "Interacts well with guitar volume and tone controls"4.
Availability
BMF Effects' product page currently lists the Marc F'N Ford as "Sold Out!" and notes, "Current Lead Time Is 5-6 Weeks"2. The pedal was announced in September 2018 at a street price of $249 plus shipping1.
Videos
The Official BMF Effects Channel
Mike Hermans
Ed Pettersen
Questions
Can the two sides of the Marc F'N Ford be used together?
Yes. Each side operates independently and can be stacked for more tonal options, according to BMF Effects. Premier Guitar's press release describes the result as a three-channel pedal: boost, overdrive, and boosted drive. With both sides engaged, the signal order follows Marc Ford's specifications, with the GB Boost feeding into the Purple Nurple.
Does the Marc F'N Ford OD/Boost need a special power supply?
No. Premier Guitar's 2018 press release describes 9-volt operation with a standard DC input and notes that no special power supply is required. BMF Effects' product page lists the operating DC voltage as 9v through a DC jack.
Who is Marc Ford?
Marc Ford is a guitarist who teamed up with BMF Effects to produce the Marc F'N Ford overdrive/boost. The pedal was built to his specifications and is based on his personal choices of the company's circuits: the Purple Nurple Overdrive and the GB Boost Germanium Booster.
Which side of the Marc F'N Ford is the germanium boost?
The GB Boost is the right side of the pedal, with volume and tone controls. MusicRadar's review describes it as a design based on the vintage Dallas Rangemaster germanium treble booster. The Purple Nurple overdrive, with volume and gain controls, is the left side.
Is the Marc F'N Ford OD/Boost still available?
BMF Effects' product page currently lists the pedal as sold out, with the company noting a current lead time of 5 to 6 weeks. The pedal was released in September 2018 at a street price of $249 plus shipping.
Sources (4)
- BMF Effects Releases the Marc F’N Ford OD/Boost, Premier Guitar, 2018-09-03
- Marc F'N Ford Overdrive/Boost, BMF Effects
- BMF Effects introduces the Marc F'N Ford Overdrive/Boost, Guitar.com, 2018-09-07
- BMF Effects Marc F'N Ford Overdrive/Boost review, MusicRadar, 2019-02-01
