Feature – 1977 Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi

Model Description:

One of the iconic effect pedals of all time is the American built Electro‑Harmonix Big Muff π. While it may not be the granddaddy of fuzz it is definitely an elder statesman. To clarify… the Big Muff is bigger than the littler Little Big Muff… or if you’d prefer… the Little Big Muff is littler than the bigger Big Muff … got that? The added flexibility enabled by the Big Muff is a huge asset and the fuzziest of vintage fuzzy sounds can be dialled in really easily. Others, including Electro‑Harmonix themselves, have attempted to reproduce its unique tones, although the original still reigns supreme. Its descendants are still rocking modern music in droves, testament to the classic tones produced in shed loads. The large pressed steel construction is typical 1970s Electro‑Harmonix – not the sturdiest of pedals but certainly adequate enough to cope with being regularly stamped on.

Pedal Description:

This is another stomp box that I’ve owned from new. I’ve kept it over the decades because it is such a great effect and it ranks as my all-time favourite fuzz pedal. Like my other one‑owner Electro‑Harmonix effects, I think this one dates to c.1977, from my fuzzy recollection (sic!). It is in great overall condition, complete with its original box. Like a couple of my other original 1970s Electro‑Harmonix pedals, the chrome steel front is showing speckles of surface rust, even though it has been lovingly cared for over the years. Despite its age, it still works perfectly and sounds frankly awesome with gargantuan gain, seismic sustain and humungous harmonics. It is easy to get so lost in the fuzztastic noise that one ‘goes for it’ and forgets the original signal. New ones are good, vintage ones are better – so much so that they are becoming hugely collectable and pricey to those in the know. To me personally, it is almost irreplaceable. Colossally cool. Go on; see what all the fuzz is about.

Features: