BOSS MT-2 Metal Zone

The BOSS MT-2 Metal Zone pedal is an incredibly versatile and powerful stompbox.  It features a 3 band equalizer, dual gain circuits, and buffered bypass.  It isn't true bypass like DeltaLab effects, but buffered bypass has its advantages.  Namely, it allows for long cables to be used without signal loss.  The equalizer is very powerful.  It allows one to adjust the highs, lows, mids, and the mid range.  Having control over the mid range is a huge feature because it allows for unique tone shaping and control for alternate tunings.  BOSS advertises that the dual gain circuits "create a wall of distortion and sustain like a stack of overdriven amps".  I find that the dual gain circuits allow for me to use the pedal for a wide variety of musical styles, although it isn't quite as versatile as some of the other distortion pedals I own.  I can create tones ranging from classic rock (like Boston) to modern metal (like Megadeth).  Really, the only tone I have trouble creating with this pedal is a bluesy, slightly broken up tone.  The advertised sustain is definitely present, as is the ability to create scorching distortion.  As I play mostly metal, this is definitely a great pedal for my collection.  In addition, I find that pinch harmonics are easy to hit and sustain for a long time.  I've read other reviews that say that this pedal makes all guitars sound cheap, but my take on it is just the opposite.  I tried it with cheap guitars with cheap pickups and got good tone.  I tried it again with expensive guitars with nice pickups and got incredible tone.  This pedal is highly recommended for fans of metal, huge sustain, and tonal versatility.