Wampler launches a new vintage fuzz: the Cryptid Fuzz

Wampler has just announced the Cryptid Fuzz, a new pedal that combines many of the features of classic fuzz circuits, while adding tuning options for greater flexibility.

Designed to adapt to different musical styles and approaches, it is inspired in particular by the Fuzz Face, Big Muff and Tone Bender circuits.

Design inspired by the classics

Brian Wampler, the brand’s founder, wanted to create a fuzz capable of covering a wide range of sounds without being limited to a single circuit type. The aim was to design a model that could be used for both vintage sounds and more modern textures, while remaining simple to use.

Unlike some of the more characteristic fuzzes, the Cryptid has been designed to be adaptable. Depending on settings and playing dynamics, it can be used as a classic fuzz, overdrive or clear boost.

Settings for a wide variety of sounds

The pedal features several controls for adjusting the sound:
– Volume: manages output level.
– Fuzz: regulates saturation, from slightly grainy to highly saturated.
– Tone: modifies frequency balance.
– Character (Bias): acts on the texture of the sound, moving from a smoother saturation to a rougher, more dynamic response.

Two additional switches allow further fine-tuning:
– Tight (three positions): modifies the bass response to obtain a more open or more restrained sound.
– Chime: adds harmonics to give more presence without making the sound aggressive.

These options enable Cryptid to be used in a variety of musical contexts, and to be easily integrated into an effects chain.

Interaction with guitar and signal

Like vintage fuzz, the Cryptid is highly sensitive to guitar dynamics and volume. By lowering the instrument’s volume knob, it’s possible to achieve clearer tones, without losing expressiveness.

Unlike some fuzzes, which can be affected by an upstream buffer, this one has been designed to work well in a variety of configurations. It can be placed at the beginning of a chain to retain the dynamics of a classic analog circuit, or combined with other effects for a more modern approach.

More information on the Wampler website.
Retail price: €229