Maestro Fuzz-Tone FZ-1B

[misc1600]

Went to the local pawn shop today and they have a Maestro Fuzz-Tone FZ-1B for $250. Now, I don’t know much about buying vintage, so I’m looking for some expertise here.

Is that price fair?

How many different models of the Fuzz-Tone are there?

When I inspect the pedal, what should I look for?

[devnulljp]

This one?



Pop it open and report back how many transistors are inside.
That's an OK price, not great, but fair enough.
I've seen at least 4 different circuits in there with 2, 3 or 4 Si trannies.
You might want to try it too -- that's an unusual fuzztone -- real gated. It has a weird squelch circuit so the gating is quite extreme.
Real gnarly buzz. I like it (mine had4 trannies)

[misc1600]

Yes. that's the one. I'll go back to see how many transistors are inside. Would the pots have dates?

Its clean, except the knobs felt sticky.

[devnulljp]

Should be a date code -- mine was 1968 or 9.
The 2 trannie version has more of a fuzz face kinda sound, while the 4 trannie is super gated.
Either way, it's a cool wee box. Very 60s sounding. Not super long sustain or anything.