What is the primary difference between the FFM3 and the JHF1?

The FFM3 contains the exact same circuit as the JHF1 but is housed in a much smaller, pedalboard-friendly enclosure. It also adds modern features like a status LED and an AC power jack.

Does the FFM3 feature true bypass switching?

Yes, the pedal is equipped with true bypass switching. This ensures that your guitar's natural tone remains unaffected when the pedal is turned off.

What type of power supply does the FFM3 require?

The pedal can be powered via a standard 9-volt AC adapter or a 9-volt battery. It includes a convenient battery door for quick access without needing to unscrew the chassis.

How does the turquoise FFM3 differ from other Fuzz Face Minis?

The turquoise model is specifically voiced to the Hendrix JHF1 silicon specifications. Other minis, like the red or blue versions, use different transistors such as Germanium or different Silicon variations for different gain structures.

Is this pedal suitable for high-gain modern metal?

While primarily a vintage-voiced fuzz, it can be used in modern contexts as demonstrated by Mick Gordon. However, it is fundamentally designed for classic rock and blues-rock saturation.

Can I use this pedal with a Wah-Wah pedal?

Yes, though like most vintage fuzz circuits, placement matters. It is traditionally placed after a wah like the Mick Ronson Cry Baby, though some players prefer the interaction when placed before.

What does the 'Fuzz' knob actually control?

The Fuzz knob adjusts the amount of gain and saturation. Turning it clockwise increases the sustain and harmonic distortion of the signal.

Why is the chassis made of metal?

The distinctive metal chassis provides durability for stage use and offers shielding for the internal circuitry against electromagnetic interference.

Does this pedal clean up when I roll down my guitar volume?

Yes, one of the hallmark features of this Hendrix-spec circuit is its ability to transition from heavy fuzz to a clear, chimey tone using the guitar's volume control.

Is the status LED bright enough for outdoor stages?

The FFM3 features a high-visibility bright status LED designed to be easily seen under various lighting conditions, including dark stages or bright environments.

How much does the FFM3 typically cost?

The typical price for the Dunlop Fuzz Face Mini Hendrix Turquoise FFM3 is approximately £174, depending on the retailer.

What are the dimensions compared to a standard Fuzz Face?

The Mini series is significantly smaller than the original 7-inch diameter 'landmine' design, making it roughly the size of a standard compact effects pedal, which saves significant pedalboard space.

Gear article

Dunlop Fuzz Face Mini Hendrix Turquoise FFM3

The Dunlop Fuzz Face Mini Hendrix Turquoise FFM3 is a compact guitar effects pedal designed to replicate the legendary fuzz tones of Jimi Hendrix. It utilises the exact circuit found in the larger JHF1 Hendrix Fuzz Face but integrates modern conveniences like an LED indicator and external power support.

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Overview

The Dunlop FFM3 Fuzz Face Mini Hendrix Turquoise is a space-saving recreation of one of the most significant effects in rock history. While the original Fuzz Face units were known for their large, circular 'landmine' footprints, the Mini series provides the same internal components in a significantly smaller enclosure. The FFM3 specifically houses the circuitry of the JHF1, which is voiced to capture the specific silicon-based fuzz characteristics associated with Jimi Hendrix's late-1960s performances.

Technical Features and Design

The pedal is housed in a distinctive turquoise metal chassis that maintains the aesthetic spirit of the original units. Despite its vintage-voiced circuit, it includes several modern appointments requested by contemporary guitarists:

Power Options: Unlike vintage units that relied solely on batteries, the FFM3 includes an AC power jack and a convenient battery door for easy replacements.
Status LED: A bright LED indicates when the effect is engaged, a feature missing from original 1960s models.
True Bypass: The pedal ensures signal integrity when disengaged, preventing the 'tone suck' associated with vintage non-bypass circuits.
Controls: A simple two-knob interface consisting of 'Volume' and 'Fuzz' allows for intuitive operation.

Sound Character

The FFM3 is known for its aggressive yet musical saturation. Because it is based on the silicon JHF1 circuit, it offers more gain and a brighter, more biting top-end compared to germanium-based fuzz pedals. It is highly responsive to the guitar's volume knob, allowing players to clean up the signal into a glassy overdrive by slightly rolling back the instrument's output. This dynamic range makes it a staple for players looking to recreate psychedelic rock and blues-rock textures.

Target Audience and Notable Users

This pedal is primarily aimed at guitarists who require the specific 'Hendrix' fuzz voice but have limited space on their pedalboards. It suits players ranging from blues-rock enthusiasts to experimental composers. Notably, the FFM3 has been utilised by artist Mick Gordon, demonstrating its versatility beyond traditional rock genres and into modern, high-intensity sound design.

Comparative Analysis

When compared to alternatives like the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Distortion Sustainer, the FFM3 offers a more mid-focused, vintage-accurate response that interacts more dynamically with the guitar's electronics. Unlike modern multi-effects or digital units like the Boss DD-3T or Behringer UC200, the FFM3 is a dedicated analogue tool focused on a single, high-quality texture. For players seeking a different modulation flavour, the Fender Hammertone Flanger or Digitech Whammy Ricochet offer distinct time and pitch-based effects, whereas the FFM3 remains a core gain-stage tool.

Artists who play it

Mick Gordon
video game composer

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary difference between the FFM3 and the JHF1?: The FFM3 contains the exact same circuit as the JHF1 but is housed in a much smaller, pedalboard-friendly enclosure. It also adds modern features like a status LED and an AC power jack.
Does the FFM3 feature true bypass switching?: Yes, the pedal is equipped with true bypass switching. This ensures that your guitar's natural tone remains unaffected when the pedal is turned off.
What type of power supply does the FFM3 require?: The pedal can be powered via a standard 9-volt AC adapter or a 9-volt battery. It includes a convenient battery door for quick access without needing to unscrew the chassis.
How does the turquoise FFM3 differ from other Fuzz Face Minis?: The turquoise model is specifically voiced to the Hendrix JHF1 silicon specifications. Other minis, like the red or blue versions, use different transistors such as Germanium or different Silicon variations for different gain structures.
Is this pedal suitable for high-gain modern metal?: While primarily a vintage-voiced fuzz, it can be used in modern contexts as demonstrated by Mick Gordon. However, it is fundamentally designed for classic rock and blues-rock saturation.
Can I use this pedal with a Wah-Wah pedal?: Yes, though like most vintage fuzz circuits, placement matters. It is traditionally placed after a wah like the Mick Ronson Cry Baby, though some players prefer the interaction when placed before.
What does the 'Fuzz' knob actually control?: The Fuzz knob adjusts the amount of gain and saturation. Turning it clockwise increases the sustain and harmonic distortion of the signal.
Why is the chassis made of metal?: The distinctive metal chassis provides durability for stage use and offers shielding for the internal circuitry against electromagnetic interference.
Does this pedal clean up when I roll down my guitar volume?: Yes, one of the hallmark features of this Hendrix-spec circuit is its ability to transition from heavy fuzz to a clear, chimey tone using the guitar's volume control.
Is the status LED bright enough for outdoor stages?: The FFM3 features a high-visibility bright status LED designed to be easily seen under various lighting conditions, including dark stages or bright environments.
How much does the FFM3 typically cost?: The typical price for the Dunlop Fuzz Face Mini Hendrix Turquoise FFM3 is approximately £174, depending on the retailer.
What are the dimensions compared to a standard Fuzz Face?: The Mini series is significantly smaller than the original 7-inch diameter 'landmine' design, making it roughly the size of a standard compact effects pedal, which saves significant pedalboard space.