bOSS dd-3 vs dd-8 (cOMPARISON)
Our pick: The Boss DD-3 or DD-3t
I like the simplicity and the straightforward functionality of the Boss DD-3 and the newer DD-3t. If you want something with a little more flexibility, go with the DD-8.
Boss's line of digital delay pedals has a long running history, which drives many to seek older and cheaper versions of this pedal. Many guitar players land back at the Boss DD-3 or the DD-3t (the reissue version). But how do these older versions compare to newer models like the DD-8?
In this article we'll cover a simple comparison of the Boss DD-3 and the Boss DD-8, allowing you to see them side-by-side to compare specs, audio, and pricing.
We'll start with the compare tool below. Use the "Compare+" buttons to see specs, audio demos, and more detailed info for each pedal.
Note that the DD-3 entry includes the DD-3t as well as older versions of the DD-3.
Boss DD-3 VS DD-8 Comparison Tool
Pedal | Title | Rated | Browse |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Boss DD-8 | n/a | |
| Boss DD-3 (and DD-3t) | n/a |
The controls of the DD-3 close up. Flickr Commons image via Garretc
DD-3
The main difference between the DD-3 and the newer DD-3t is that the new versions support a tap tempo function, which we think significantly improve the usefulness. In terms of comparing to the DD-8, it's just a far simpler pedal with fewer modes.
The DD-3T
If you buy an older used DD-3, perhaps on Reverb or eBay, you'll lose the tap and looping functionality. Though the sound quality is still quite good and on par in both pedals.
We like the DD-3 for simplicity and nostalgia, so if tap tempo and looping don't matter to you, the DD-3 can be had for far cheaper than the DD-8 on most used markets.
DD-8
The DD-8 offers more in the way of bells and whistles, though meets a similar level of sound quality. Where the DD-3 is just a pure, simple delay pedal, the DD-8 expands a lot on the functionality of the DD-3 by offering multiple modes, tap control, looping, and a wide range of i/o options.
If that additional functionality is helpful to you, or if you're interested in the variety you get from multiple delay modes and sounds, the DD-8 might be worth the upgrade.
The DD-8
Keep in mind, it's not an issue of sound quality between the two boxes. Both have a similar digital algorithm, and produce a crisp, clean-sounding delay that's on par with the quality we've come to expect from Boss stompboxes.
It's really just a question of how you feel about the additional features and functionality.
Summary
If you just want a simple delay pedal at a decently low price, we'd probably recommend going with a used version of the older DD-3. The DD-3t is nice, but it doesn't knock enough off the price tag to justify going that direction instead of the DD-8.
For those wanting the additional features, particularly the i/o options, the DD-8 might be the better option.
If you have questions about the Boss DD-3 or DD-8, feel free to drop them in the comments section below and we'll jump in and help out as much as possible.
Also, don't forget to use the Boss DD-3 VS DD-8 comparison tool above to see all this info in an easy-to-read table.
Related Articles
Written by Bobby on Pedals an Comparisons
Written by Bobby on Pedals and Roundups
Comment Policy: You're down to leave a comment? That's awesome. Keep in mind that comments are moderated and rel="nofollow" is in use. Please avoid any spammy keywords or a domain as your name, otherwise your comment will be deleted. Let's stay on topic, keep questions relevant and have a meaningful conversation. All the best.