The Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal has made it onto countless pedal boards all around the world. And for good reason, it offers the legendary Rock sound in a compact and robust housing. The Level control determines the intensity of the effect on the guitar signal, while Distortion and Tone are responsible for the degree of distortion and the sound colouration. In typical Boss pedal design, the DS-1 Distortion can be powered either by 9V batteries or the optional adaptor.
The main features of the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal include:
At least for beginners i find that this is a really awesome beginning, a really good sound packed into a good price. You can get a pretty heavy sound if you play metal or a "softer" for hard rock. In general you can easly find a tune for whatever you play.
This pedal first was first introduced back in 1978-79 and the first DS-1 Made In Japan Black Label worth buying in my opinion.The newer ones are not the same.Their sound quality is worse and I think they are not suitable for professional users without any modification.This pedal is great for beginner players.The price/performance ration is good but do not expect miracles.
Used it for a year now. I think it is a must-have for any pedalboard. Boss robust quality and a good price. Works great after my Black Russian Big Muff to beef and fuzz up the tone. Also great overdrive tones with the distortion switch all the way down.
Ibanez TS9 Classic Tubescreamer
PROCO Rat 2
Boss SD-1 Super Overdrive Pedal 
Electro Harmonix LPB-1 Linear Power Booster Gui tar Effects Pedal