Benson Germanium Fuzz Effect Pedal, Studio Black Benson Amps

The crew at Benson Amps has rethought the classic germanium fuzz circuit while delivering on a tone that anyone can easily fall in love with. While other germanium fuzz pedals may have proved to be historically finicky, Benson has introduced a new formula to the iconic fuzz tone. The Germanium Fuzz is designed with a circuit that gently warms the internal transistors to arrive at a factory preset that produces the unmistakable germanium fuzz voice slowly but surely. Once plugged in, the pedal will take about two to three minutes to reach its intended temperature. This design – automatic thermal bias technology – ensures stability and consistency in tone all while using all analog components.

The Germanium Fuzz is a pedal that requires patience, but the tones unleashed are well worth the wait. The LED light indicates the status of the temperature of the transistors inside. Once plugged in, the LED will glow orange to indicate that the transistors are warming up and are not yet ready to be played. When the light changes green, the transistors have been properly heated. The color of the LED can change while playing, this is normal as it indicates that the pedal is working as intended.

A class A buffer is installed in the input of the Germanium Fuzz, meaning the fuzz will retain its distinct tone while paired with other pedals. In addition, the buffer feeds a Jack Orman style passive pickup simulator circuit. An “Impedance” control simulates lowering your guitar volume to get a sparkly fuzz sound without actually adjusting your guitar’s settings.

The germanium character of the Germanium Fuzz is less harsh and more akin to an overdrive or distortion. While the design of the Germanium Fuzz differs from the traditional fuzz circuits of past generations, the distorted, fuzzy character is still there. A classic fuzz with modern sensibilities, the Germanium Fuzz makes a leap toward a fuzzy future.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The two colors of the Germanium Fuzz affect the function of the pedal. Since internal temperature is critical to the operation of the Germanium Fuzz, the Black Studio color is not meant for exposure to direct sunlight. The Solar White color is better equipped to deal with sunlight exposure.