Originally Posted by: graham.fogg
So I was thinking about buying the boss distortion pedal, would this sound better than the in built distortion, or would it only be as good as the amp can play?

What kind of tone are you after? Can you give an example of a song, guitarist or band that has the type of metal tone you want?

In general, any tone starts in your ability to play, then the guitar pickups, then the amp. Pedals are useful tools, but they can only do so much.

That Fender amp is a great beginner amp. I'd strongly encourage you to watch some gear demos vids to see what it possible with that amp.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ib0Hjlwejac

Notice that he gets some great overdriven tones. But no matter what he does, his playing style & that Strat sound like bluesy classic rock.

Here's a vid with a different player & guitar (more modern style) but the same amp. And in Japanese! :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeNjzHoxnik

Look for vids to hear what's possible with what you have! Hope this helps. Have fun!