Which of these 2 would be better as a solo boost before an IR-2?
I’ve made the switch to an ampless rig for reasons. I basically use a Boss IR-2 clean Twin as my base clean and pedal platform. I use an OCD clone as my crunch rhythm sound. Without getting into more details on the rest of my rig, here is my problem: I’ve found since switching to the IR-2, it compresses the pedals that used to be effective solo boosts (Turbo Rat being one that used to work great, but not anymore). The JHS Preamp Overdrive (DOD 250 clone) is the only thing that still adds boost and gain to some degree (I do have plenty of headroom), but as this pedal has no EQ adjustments, only gain and level, it adds way too much low end and is way too muddy.
From what I can tell based on google searches and YouTube videos, 2 good options for me look like the EQD Special Cranker and the MXR Timmy OD. As far as I can tell, they seem to share similar qualities (circuits?) as the DOD 250 but with more tonal adjustments and seemingly better overall tone for what I’m looking for.
Has anyone used either of these pedals before an IR-2, and if so, what are your thoughts? Preferably, has anyone used either as a boost stacked after an OCD or a similar OD?
I know I always have the option of just using the crunch channel on the IR-2 as a lead channel, but I’m hoping to avoid that if I can find another option.
Thank you in advance for reading and any insight or advice is much appreciated.