The Rodenberg SL-OD DLX DRIVE is an analog overdrive and distortion pedal from RODENBERG amplification, carrying two fully independent sounds, a low gain to high gain overdrive and a distortion, in a single enclosure. Its sound design is credited to Steve Lukather and designer Uli Rodenberg, with both names appearing on the product.1
Two sounds in one enclosure
Rodenberg describes the SL-OD DLX DRIVE as combining two completely independent sounds: a low gain to high gain overdrive and a distortion, each with its own sound character, switchable presets and precise Level, Tone and Drive controls.1
Into a clean or lightly overdriven amp, the maker says the pedal gives an open overdrive and medium distortion sound that stays clear and structured, and that stacking the two channels adds extra gain on top.1 In that sense it covers ground a player would otherwise split between a dedicated overdrive pedal and a distortion pedal, with the option to run them into each other.
The controls and preset switches
Each channel has Level, Tone and Drive controls, and each also carries its own preset toggle switches that change the channel's response1:
| Channel | Controls | Preset switches |
|---|---|---|
| Overdrive | Level, Tone, Drive | GAIN BOOST, FAT BOOST, DEEP Boost |
| Distortion | Level, Tone, Drive | TIGHT mode |
The GAIN and FAT BOOST preset switches sit in the overdrive sound, the DEEP Boost switch is on the overdrive channel, and the TIGHT mode preset switch shapes the distortion sound.1
LOCKED mode
The LOCKED switch connects the overdrive and distortion in a locked mode in which one footswitch press switches between both sounds, according to Rodenberg.1 That turns the pedal into a single two-sound unit for players who want one stomp to flip from, say, the overdrive into the distortion, rather than managing two channels independently.
Power, bypass and build
The pedal runs on 9 to 18V DC, with 9V DC as the standard and 18V DC as the maximum, drawing 50 to 80 mA. Rodenberg states there is no battery operation.1
The SL-OD DLX DRIVE cannot run on a battery and draws 50 to 80 mA, so it needs its own supply output rather than a battery or a lightly rated daisy chain.1
Bypass is a special mechanical true bypass circuit that, through optimized noise suppression technology, switches nearly click-free, per the maker.1 The enclosure measures 94 x 119 x 34 mm.1
Where it sits in the Rodenberg range
The SL-OD DLX DRIVE is part of a Rodenberg line built around the SL-OD concept: the maker also lists the SL-OD DELUXE, the SL-OD DELUXE REDLINE and the LUKE Overdrive MK II, alongside the dual overdrive TB Drive Shakedown Special.3
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Questions
Can the Rodenberg SL-OD DLX run on a battery?
No. Rodenberg states the SL-OD DLX DRIVE has no battery operation, so it needs an external DC power supply. It accepts 9 to 18 volts DC and draws 50 to 80 mA, which is more than some daisy-chain supplies deliver comfortably, so a dedicated or well-rated supply output is the practical choice.
What does LOCKED mode do on the SL-OD DLX?
LOCKED mode links the overdrive and distortion channels together in what Rodenberg describes as a locked mode, so a single footswitch press switches between both sounds. Without it, the two channels are handled separately. It is a way of treating the pedal as one two-sound unit rather than two independent effects.
Can you run the SL-OD DLX at 18 volts?
Yes. Rodenberg specifies 9 to 18 volts DC, with 9V DC as the standard and 18V DC as the maximum. Current draw is 50 to 80 mA. Battery operation is not supported, so an 18V supply has to come from a pedalboard power supply or adapter that provides it.
Where is the Rodenberg SL-OD DLX made?
Rodenberg builds the SL-OD DLX DRIVE in Germany, handcrafted in small quantities. The maker's product page also lists a three-year warranty on the pedal.
Sources (3)
- SL-OD DLX DRIVE, RODENBERG amplification
- SL-OD DLX DRIVE by Rodenberg, RockBoard PedalPedia, 2026
- SL-OD DLX DRIVE, RODENBERG amplification
Steve Lukather
