With original late ’70s Op-Amp Big Muffs selling for high prices, Electro-Harmonix has decided to reissue the pedal, sometimes also referred to as the IC or V4 Big Muff. EHX says that it’s not an exact replica, however, as it also features several practical enhancements, including a compact, die-cast chassis and true bypass switching.
‘The Op-Amp Big Muff was popularized by the brilliant Billy Corgan who first used it on the Smashing Pumpkins’ epic 1993 album Siamese Dream. After he was videotaped playing and talking about the reissue, Billy stated: “The magic’s still in the box, I can still get what I’m looking for!”‘ says EHX’s Mike Matthews
The pedal relies on op-amps rather than transistors and three gain stages rather than four, to create its signature sound. ‘It’s a sound that’s been described by noted Big Muff collector and historian, Kit Rae, as: “a huge, crushing Big Muff sound with more crunch… great for grungy, wall-of-sound distortion, heavy rhythm playing and heavy leads.” says EHX.
Info: www.ehx.com