More expensive than a Boss BD-2 Blues Driver pedal.
Eventually being replaced by ... more the TS5 in 1990. The Muff is also noticeably affected by the EQ profile of the Tube Screamer, becoming much punchier.

This is around $25 – $30 more than the Blues Driver, which may or may not be significant to your budget, so be aware of that difference. I say, if you want that sound, go with the original. It robbed the low end from the guitar sound when it was engaged and, if you set the amp tone for the tube screamer, when you switched back to clean the bottom end was boomy.
Ibanez Tubescreamer TS9 vs Boss Blues Driver BD-2 - YouTube This amazing 10 years+ old video from BOSS channel is showing some how to config sound for BD-2. With our Tube Screamer in front, there’s a slight jump in perceived volume and more compression from the amp. I play a strat through a Fender hot rod deville tube amp. The Ibanez Tube Screamer (TS9/TS808) is a guitar overdrive pedal, made by Ibanez.The pedal has a characteristic mid-boosted tone popular with blues, rock and metal players. It is similar to the rare and valuable ST-9 Super Tube Screamer which seems to have been sold only in Europe. During the first week of August 2020, we'll be upgrading the software TGP runs on to the currently available up-to-date version. I mean, that's where its reputation stems from and what spawned a thousand imitators and clones. The software version is a significant upgrade, so there will be some downtime as we do the work under the hood. Also to comment on the use of a compressor before an overdrive pedal. The stock pedal has a fairly dark tone with bland gain and can be a tad muddy and overall tends to lack personality. Constantly evolving. This was the very first 'Tube Screamer' I bought - based on Robert Keeleys many modifications for original Tube Screamer circuits - he first created his original homage in the guise of the full-size compact Red Dirt OD, but the mini is somehow smarter still - featuring 4 tiny internal dip-switches that give you a myriad of voicing / modification options. The Tube Driver is designed for bigger tube amps so if you’re mostly playing at home on a smaller rig or transistor amps I’d go for something a bit more versatile like a Boss BD-2 or Ibanez/Maxon Tube Screamer. What are the advantages of the Boss BD-2 Blues Driver?

If you’re after a smoother, balanced lead tone, the Blues Driver is the best choice but if you want a sharper, cutting tone choose the Tube Screamer. The tube Screamer is best for: Modern rock and metal After the 9 series was discontinued, the MASTER or L series pedals were made, without a tube screamer in the lineup.