The Muff is a classic type of fuzz pedal, most famously associated with the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff. It is known for its heavily saturated, distorted sound, often producing a thick, smooth fuzz with a rich harmonic complexity. The Big Muff in particular has become an iconic pedal, widely used in rock, metal, and experimental music, known for its ability to create a sustained, creamy fuzz with a pronounced midrange and bass-heavy response.
The Muff design is typically centred around fuzz distortion, creating a fuzzy, saturated tone with a long sustain that can add both warmth and grit to a guitarist’s sound. Many versions and variations of the Muff pedal exist, such as the Russian Big Muff, Wren and Cuff’s Blackout series, and Moogerfooger fuzzes, each offering unique tweaks on the classic design. Muff pedals are celebrated for their ability to create massive, powerful tones, making them a staple for musicians seeking a distinctive, cutting-edge fuzz sound.