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BOSS Waza Craft : Fuzz / FZ-1w

This effects pedal is a NEW addition to the (fuzz-effect-sounds-and-more.com) collection. As such, I’ve only previously listened to YouTube demos of BOSS sound processors : Tone Bender, FZ-1w, FZ-5. Ultimately, I was beside-myself, regarding the fact of each model sounding QUITE realistic; especially, within a mix of recorded musical instruments.

Fast-forward to when I received the product : Carrier’s packaging box was entirely smashed upon one side! Nonetheless, since the effects pedal was manufactured (in Japan) by BOSS, I presumed there’s a chance its rugged build-quality saved it from damage. I was correct : ) Obviously, I could hardly wait to experiment; initially, pondering how a fuzz unit from BOSS would compare to a Tone Bender–even though, it’s actually voiced to emulate the best aspects of classic 1960s/ 70s-era fuzz circuits. Personally, I discovered the inherent voicing of the BOSS unit to remind me (largely) of a combination, Tone Bender/ Big Muff Pi. AND.. sounding so-SO good : ) Provided below, are the details.

Synopsis :

Note : The effects pedal itself, patched into a modeled SOUND of a (circa, 1972) Marshall 50w MKII Lead guitar amplifier. Moreover, having its user-controls set to produce an OVERDRIVEN sound. Experiment : Your personal taste is unique, and relatively subjective. What sounds good, IS good.

1.) BOSS FZ-1w effects pedal: All controls positioned, OFF.

2.) Slowly, increase unit’s LEVEL control. Thus, relatively increasing dB (decibels/ volume-level); ultimately, to a point of NOT entering into gain (distortion/ clipping) territory. Rather, that of a clean/ linear voicing : Not too low, not too high (“fat/ thick”). This application, approx. “10-O’clock” position. Notice how refined (NON-distorted, clean, smooth) the overall sonic character. Relatively, focused/ tight low-end freq. response.

3.) Blend/ increase unit’s FUZZ control–to the point of NOT covering articulation/ sonic detail of musical notes (and the-like). Interestingly, we as musicians, are dealing with imperfection here; which nonetheless, has the potential of sounding QUITE pleasing. Ultimately, such reserved for those into FUZZ.

Note : Incidentally.. @ times, employing any one of my (actual) Tone Bender units, I opt to use such as a boost effect–which, happens to provide an equally-TONEFUL alternative. (Cleaner/ smoother-sounding.) Likewise, employing this same technique, the BOSS FZ-1w Fuzz effects pedal will yield like-results.

4.) Blend/ increase unit’s TONE control to provide just enough clarity/ treble-edge. Note : When increased, this particular control also DECREASES low-end freq. response. In other words, balancing the two. (One may view this as a compromise.) Experiment : In this regard, go to extremes, in which to discover your personal “sweet spot”. (As it were.)

IMO : OMG, perfect. Hypothetically, if I were to have only one (1) fuzz effects pedal, I’m beginning to (seriously) think it may be the BOSS FZ-1w ?!
Line 6 modeling technology : POD HD Pro. (Personally-crafted ILLUSION of a circa, 1972 Marshall 50w MKII Lead guitar amplifier.)

 

Guitar audio signal-chain/ sequential order :

* Fender Stratocaster (’72 reissue)
* Monster Classic instrument cable
* Mogami Gold interconnect cables (effects pedal)
* BOSS Fuzz effects pedal (FZ-1w)
* Line 6 POD HD Pro
* Sony MDR-7506 headphones

 

 

 

 

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The intention of fuzz-effect-sounds-and-more.com is to provide a reference resource; virtually sharing my gear collection, so that readers are made greater-aware of particularly good-sounding (and, in some instances), potentially collectible effects pedals. Otherwise, to also help those whom might benefit from my recording/ engineering techniques. Ultimately, as I continue to build and design this site, I will gradually introduce additional collection-based content—e.g. blog posts, image galleries, audio, video, and official manufacturer web links for your convenience. The information provided herein, is based upon biased opinion. Please, do your own research.

Ebooks :

Later.. I will offer for sale Part 1 of a series of self-authored eBooks, in relation to fuzz effects pedals; subsequently, also offering additional volumes regarding other effects types—boost, overdrive, distortion, etc—all via my private, independent collection. Moreover, these “tomes of tone” will include audio examples, color images, (in most cases) close-up circuit views, and generalized spec. information. Otherwise, said eBooks regarding fuzz effects pedals will additionally incl. generalized historical information as well. For details, please read this site’s eBook advertisement page.

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