Next to the Electro Harmonix NYC Big Muff, the Boss Hyper Fuzz FZ-2 would have to be my all time favorite fuzz pedal. Why? Because it’s so damn versatile! Fortunately, I picked mine up quite a few years ago off ebay, in near new condition for $35US. These things now go for $80US plus and are becoming highly sought after. The FZ-2 was discontinued, so they can be hard to find.

The Hyper Fuzz FZ-2 has three modes. Fuzz mode 1 is a dirty garage sounding, Rolling Stones ‘Satisfaction’ style fuzz. In terms of fuzz, this mode is tamer than the big muff, and would be suitable for garage rock.

Fuzz mode 2 is a very dry, metallic, industrial style tone. Think Downward Spiral era Nine Inch Nails, and that’s probably getting close. There is a hint of ring modulation in mode 2, although not enough to distract you from the grind. This is were you would leave the pedal set if you are into industrial, heavy style music. For a good example of what mode 2 sounds like, have a listen to the Orgy cover of ‘Blue Monday’.

The third and final mode is Gain Boost. This is probably the most surprising mode available on the pedal. Put in front of an old school JCM800 this thing takes the amp to the next level. I’ve heard of people running two FZ-2’s in their rig, one for fuzz, the other solely for a clean boost.

Famous guitarists known to have used the Boss Hyper Fuzz FZ-2 include Stephen Carpenter (Deftones), Amir Derakh and Ryan Shuck (Orgy), Mike Sarkisyan (Spineshank), Robert Schneider (Apples In Stereo), and Robin File (Badly Drawn Boy).

I’d recommend this pedal on the basis of the Gain Boost alone, but throw in the two modes of Fuzz, and this pedal becomes a “must buy”. Get one before the prices go any higher.

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