Arbiter Fuzz Face

The Arbiter Fuzz Face is one of the most iconic guitar effects pedals, known for its distinctive circular design and its role in shaping the sound of classic rock. Introduced in 1966 by Arbiter Electronics Ltd. in the UK, the Fuzz Face was inspired by the Tone Bender MK1.5 circuit and featured two transistors for its fuzz effect. Its unique round shape was reportedly modeled after the base of a microphone stand, giving it a "smiling face" appearance with its control knobs and logo.

Historical Development

• Early Production (1966): The Fuzz Face debuted at the British Musical Instrument Industries trade fair in August 1966 and hit stores by November. Early models used germanium transistors, which provided a warm and smooth fuzz tone but were temperature-sensitive. Later versions switched to silicon transistors, offering more stability and a grittier sound better suited for hard rock.
• Brand Evolution: Over the years, the pedal was marketed under various names due to mergers and acquisitions, including Dallas-Arbiter, CBS/Arbiter, and Dallas Music Industries. Production ceased in the late 1970s but resumed under Dunlop Manufacturing in 1993, which continues to produce modern versions.

Notable Players

The Fuzz Face became synonymous with legendary guitarists:

• Jimi Hendrix: Perhaps its most famous user, Hendrix used both germanium and silicon models to craft his signature tones on albums like Electric Ladyland. He also experimented with battery levels to achieve unique tonal variations.
• David Gilmour: Known for his work with Pink Floyd, Gilmour used the Fuzz Face for its rich sustain and dynamic response.
• Stevie Ray Vaughan (SRV): SRV utilized the pedal for its ability to clean up with guitar volume adjustments, making it versatile for blues-rock tones.

Popular Settings

The Fuzz Face is celebrated for its responsiveness to guitar volume adjustments:

• Volume and Fuzz Knobs: Many players set the fuzz knob just below maximum to maintain clarity while keeping the volume slightly above unity gain to push their amp into overdrive.
• Dynamic Control: Players often leave the pedal on throughout a performance and use their guitar's volume knob to transition from clean tones (around volume 7) to full fuzz (volume 10).
• Amp Pairing: The pedal pairs well with tube amps set to light breakup, enhancing its organic feel. Some players add treble boosters or preamps to refine their tone further.

Legacy

The Arbiter Fuzz Face remains a cornerstone of fuzz pedals, inspiring countless clones and modern iterations. Its simplicity, dynamic response, and association with rock legends ensure its enduring popularity among musicians seeking vintage fuzz tones.