What does the Wicker switch actually do?

The Wicker switch opens up three high-frequency filters within the circuit. This adds 'top-end' sparkle and bite, helping the fuzz sound more articulate.

Can you bypass the Tone control on this pedal?

Yes, the dedicated Tone toggle switch allows you to bypass the Tone knob completely. This results in a fuller, flatter frequency response and a boost in volume.

Is the Big Muff with Tone Wicker good for classic rock?

Yes, it retains the legendary creamy sustain of the original Big Muff Pi. It can easily replicate classic fuzz tones when the Wicker and Tone switches are in their standard positions.

How much does this pedal typically cost?

The typical price range for this model is approximately £97.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.

Is the housing durable for touring?

The pedal is designed with a sturdy, robust metal housing. It is built to withstand the rigours of live performance and frequent stomp use.

What brand manufactures the Big Muff with Tone Wicker?

This pedal is manufactured by Electro Harmonix (EHX), a brand famous for its history of innovative guitar effects.

What controls are found on the top of the pedal?

The pedal features three rotating knobs for Volume, Tone, and Sustain. It also includes two toggle switches for the Wicker and Tone functions.

How does this compare to a standard Big Muff Pi?

It offers the same core sound as the standard Big Muff but adds the Wicker and Tone-bypass switches. This provides more high-frequency options and tonal flexibility.

Does the pedal provide distortion or fuzz?

It is classified as a distortion/fuzz sustainer. It provides thick, heavy saturation that blurs the line between traditional distortion and high-gain fuzz.

Can I use a noise suppressor with this pedal?

Yes, models like the Boss NS-2 are often used with high-gain pedals like the Big Muff. This helps manage the noise floor during quiet passages in a performance.

What kind of power supply does it use?

The pedal typically uses a standard 9V DC centre-negative power supply. It can also be powered by a 9V battery located inside the chassis.

Will this pedal work well with a Stratocaster?

Yes, it is frequently paired with guitars like the Fender American Standard Stratocaster. The Wicker switch can help compensate for the different output characteristics of single-coil versus humbucking pickups.

Gear article

Electro Harmonix Big Muff Pi with Tone Wicker

The Electro Harmonix Big Muff Pi with Tone Wicker is a compact distortion and fuzz pedal that expands upon the classic Big Muff circuit. It introduces two dedicated switches—Tone and Wicker—to provide players with enhanced high-frequency response and tonal flexibility while maintaining legendary sustain.

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Overview

The Big Muff Pi with Tone Wicker is a modern evolution of one of the most famous guitar effects in history. While it retains the core identity of the standard Big Muff Pi—noted for its heavy saturation and long-lasting sustain—this version is designed for musicians who require more surgical control over their frequency response. It is housed in a sturdy, road-ready enclosure and operates at a price point typically around £97.

The Wicker and Tone Switches

The defining features of this model are the two toggle switches located between the knobs.

Wicker Switch: When engaged, this opens up three high-frequency filters. This adds a sharp, biting edge to the distortion, allowing the guitar to cut through dense mixes where traditional fuzz pedals might become 'muddy'.
Tone Switch: This toggle allows the user to bypass the standard Tone knob entirely. When the Tone switch is off, the frequency response becomes flat and the output increases, resulting in a raw, unabated distortion character.

Sound Character

This pedal is capable of producing the 'creamy' sustain that defined the original Big Muff. However, the addition of the Wicker circuit allows for 'tonal extremes' not found on vintage units. It can move from a thick, woolly fuzz to a bright, aggressive distortion with a simple flip of a switch, making it one of the most versatile entries in the Big Muff family.

Target Audience

The pedal is ideal for guitarists who find the standard Big Muff too dark or difficult to 'seat' in a live band context. Because of its ability to emphasise high-end frequencies and its robust build quality, it is well-suited for touring professionals and experimental players looking for a broader palette of fuzz sounds.

System Integration

While the Big Muff with Tone Wicker provides significant gain, it is often paired with other industry-standard utilities to refine the signal chain. Common companions include the Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor to manage high-gain hiss or the Boss DD-3T Digital Delay to add space to lead lines. For modulation, it is frequently used alongside instruments like the Fender American Standard Stratocaster and pedals like the Fender Hammertone Flanger or the Behringer UC200 Ultra Chorus.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the Wicker switch actually do?: The Wicker switch opens up three high-frequency filters within the circuit. This adds 'top-end' sparkle and bite, helping the fuzz sound more articulate.
Can you bypass the Tone control on this pedal?: Yes, the dedicated Tone toggle switch allows you to bypass the Tone knob completely. This results in a fuller, flatter frequency response and a boost in volume.
Is the Big Muff with Tone Wicker good for classic rock?: Yes, it retains the legendary creamy sustain of the original Big Muff Pi. It can easily replicate classic fuzz tones when the Wicker and Tone switches are in their standard positions.
How much does this pedal typically cost?: The typical price range for this model is approximately £97.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current availability.
Is the housing durable for touring?: The pedal is designed with a sturdy, robust metal housing. It is built to withstand the rigours of live performance and frequent stomp use.
What brand manufactures the Big Muff with Tone Wicker?: This pedal is manufactured by Electro Harmonix (EHX), a brand famous for its history of innovative guitar effects.
What controls are found on the top of the pedal?: The pedal features three rotating knobs for Volume, Tone, and Sustain. It also includes two toggle switches for the Wicker and Tone functions.
How does this compare to a standard Big Muff Pi?: It offers the same core sound as the standard Big Muff but adds the Wicker and Tone-bypass switches. This provides more high-frequency options and tonal flexibility.
Does the pedal provide distortion or fuzz?: It is classified as a distortion/fuzz sustainer. It provides thick, heavy saturation that blurs the line between traditional distortion and high-gain fuzz.
Can I use a noise suppressor with this pedal?: Yes, models like the Boss NS-2 are often used with high-gain pedals like the Big Muff. This helps manage the noise floor during quiet passages in a performance.
What kind of power supply does it use?: The pedal typically uses a standard 9V DC centre-negative power supply. It can also be powered by a 9V battery located inside the chassis.
Will this pedal work well with a Stratocaster?: Yes, it is frequently paired with guitars like the Fender American Standard Stratocaster. The Wicker switch can help compensate for the different output characteristics of single-coil versus humbucking pickups.