Astra (Legacy)
Based On
Astrotone Fuzz
Effect Type
Fuzz
Build Difficulty
Beginner
$10.00
In stock
The Astra Fuzz is a clone of the Astrotone Fuzz, also released as the Sam Ash Fuzzz Boxx (yes, three Z’s and two X’s!). It was manufactured by the Universal Amplifier Company in New York City from 1966-1968.
The Astrotone was one of the first silicon fuzz units, developed in an era when germanium transistors were still widely used. It’s also one of the first effects pedals to feature a tone knob, although it’s not particularly effective in this circuit (at least not without some modifications) and later fuzz pedals such as the 3-knob Tone Bender greatly improved upon the concept.
Analogman released his version of the Astrotone, conveniently also called the Astrotone since the original trademark had expired. It has the exact same topology, but has several component values changed out to alter the sound. So it’s not an exact clone, but it’s still very highly regarded. A parts list for the Analogman version is provided in the documentation alongside the original version.