Description
In this video, we’re deep-diving into the NUX Drive Core Deluxe Mk2, an all-analog 8-in-1 overdrive and distortion pedal that packs over $3,700 worth of vintage tone into one affordable enclosure.
From legendary mid-hump classics like the TS808 and TS9 to boutique favorites like the Keeley Red Dirt and the Noble’s ODR-1 (plus a special NUX-modded version), this pedal covers almost every dirt tone a blues or rock player needs. We also explore the built-in +20dB clean post-boost, which adds massive headroom and volume for your solos without changing your gain structure.
What’s Inside the NUX Drive Core Deluxe Mk2:
Slot 1 & 2: Classic TS808 and TS9 (Ibanez/Maxon style)
Slot 3: NUX Steel Singer (Dumble-inspired)
Slot 4: Keeley Red Dirt
Slot 5: Boss OD-1 (The legendary discontinued circuit)
Slot 6: MXR Distortion+ (Classic vintage distortion)
Slot 7 & 8: Noble’s ODR-1 and the enhanced NUX Mod version
Watch as I cycle through these tones using a Fender Stratocaster and a Gibson ES-335 through a Fender Blues Deluxe to show you how this pedal cleans up, stacks up, and cuts through the mix.
Key Features:
All-analog signal path
8 distinct drive/distortion circuits
Independent clean post-boost (soft-switch activated)
True Bypass / Buffer options
High-quality metal construction
Is this the ultimate budget-friendly "Swiss Army Knife" for your pedalboard? Let me know which of the 8 modes sounded best to your ears in the comments!
Buy it here:
🛒 Sweetwater - https://sweetwater.sjv.io/NuxDriveCore
🛒 Thomann - https://intheblues.net/go/nux-drive-core-mk2-thomann/
Affiliate links earn me a small commission with any purchase. Thanks for your support.
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Video Chapters
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00:00 - NUX Drive Core Deluxe MKII Overdrive Review
00:48 - Full Mix Jam Track (All 8 Drive Circuits + Boost)
01:52 - All 8 Vintage Overdrive Circuits Explained FAST
03:03 - Guitar Recording Setup & Clean Amp Tone
03:15 - 8-Way Overdrive Pedal Shootout (No Talking Comparison)
05:27 - My Favorite Overdrive Settings on the Drive Core MKII
06:04 - How the Post-Boost Circuit Works
06:23 - TS808 Mode with Post-Boost Engagement
06:54 - Keeley Red Dirt Mode with Post-Boost Engagement
07:27 - NUX Mod (Nobels ODR-1) Mode with Post-Boost Engagement
08:12 - High Gain Humbucker Test (All 8 Drive Options)
10:13 - Volume Pot Cleanup Test (Dynamic Analog Response)
10:39 - NUX Drive Core Deluxe MKII Final Verdict
12:00 - Pre-Boost vs. Post-Boost Placement Strategy
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