Been looking for a slightly more versatile version of the FY-2 companion fuzz, and I've definitely found it!...
Clearly based on the FY-2 circuit as the core sound is fundamentally the same, except that the Zippy is lacking ever-so-slightly in the all-encompassing "girth" department. But that allows room for the texture to bloom a little more clearly and so sounds a little more articulate and brassy without compromising on that body of the core fuzz tone that I keep going back to, so I'm very happy with it.
With those settings in the pic; the switch down, fuzz maxed, and 'body' toward the left, it sounds pretty much identical to the Fy-2. Same flavour, just a different brand. I guess by nature it'll cut through a mix a little better, especially with the switch in the brighter, (up) position. (I'm guessing). Setting the body clockwise past noon results in a more kind of clean low end coming through, but I'm not too keen on that sound. Not sure what use it has in live or recording context though.
Basically, an excellent fuzz pedal if you're looking for a nasty, early 60's fuzz tone that has thickness with a touch of cutting edge and clarity to it.
And while Pryemaxe Vintage seem to have something of a tarnished reputation here, I've got to say they've always been very helpful with me as an international customer.
Oh dear, dare I ask what the whole "Teh Daltz" incident was/is?
