Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $255

High-end/Boutique

$60

$181+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Benson Germanium Fuzz". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

For those who crave the warm, vintage fuzz of yesteryears, the Benson Germanium Fuzz pedal is a must-have in your arsenal. This pedal is ideal for tone connoisseurs, offering a boutique-quality fuzz inspired by the iconic sounds of the '60s and '70s. Its standout feature is its integrated thermal bias technology, designed to optimize the performance of the dual germanium transistors no matter the environment. This ensures consistent sound quality, allowing the pedal to seamlessly adapt from freezing to scorching temperatures.

The Germanium Fuzz isn't just about nostalgia; it's a modern marvel that combines vintage tones with flexibility. The pedal includes Gain and Volume controls, letting you fine-tune the level of fuzz to suit any style, from shimmering subtleties to an aggressive, woolly growl. The first-in-chain positioning is made even more compelling with a built-in Class A buffer and a passive pickup simulator, maintaining tonal integrity when used with other pedals.

A unique Impedance control knob offers additional versatility, allowing you to simulate a guitar volume roll-off without sacrificing presence. This pedal is designed to be powered by a 9V DC center negative power supply and requires a brief 2-3 minute warm-up period to perform at its best. Handcrafted in Portland, Oregon, the Benson Germanium Fuzz promises durability and exceptional sound quality, making it a worthy investment for serious musicians.

Key Features:

  • Vintage-inspired '60s and '70s fuzz tones
  • Dual germanium transistors
  • Gain and Volume controls
  • Impedance control for volume roll-off simulation
  • Built-in Class A buffer for the first pedal chain position
  • Passive pickup simulator for pure sound
  • Integrated thermal bias technology for consistent performance
  • Operating range from freezing to 100°F
  • Requires 9V DC center negative power supply
  • 2-3 minute warm-up time
  • 2-year warranty (excluding modifications)
  • Handbuilt in Portland, Oregon

Product specs

Pedal Type Germanium Fuzz
Analog/Digital Analog
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Controls Impedance
Features Internal Thermal Bias
Power Source 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Power Usage 100mA

FAQs

What makes the Benson Germanium Fuzz unique compared to other fuzz pedals?

The Benson Germanium Fuzz uses meticulously matched 2N527 germanium transistors, offering a smoother, warmer tone with enhanced touch sensitivity, reminiscent of classic '60s fuzz sounds.

Does the Benson Germanium Fuzz require a specific power supply?

Yes, the Benson Germanium Fuzz requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It has a power usage of 100mA.

How does the internal thermal bias feature of the Benson Germanium Fuzz work?

The internal thermal bias feature helps maintain consistent performance by compensating for temperature fluctuations, ensuring stable fuzz tones across varying environments.

Can the Benson Germanium Fuzz be used in direct sunlight?

The Studio Black version of the Benson Germanium Fuzz is not recommended for direct sunlight due to potential temperature sensitivity affecting performance.

How does the impedance control on the Benson Germanium Fuzz affect the sound?

The impedance control allows you to adjust the interaction between the pedal and your guitar, enabling a range of tonal variations and enhancing the pedal's responsiveness to your playing dynamics.

AndyDemos

AndyDemos

Benson Germanium Fuzz - Consistent Temperature Controlled Fuzz

Video thumbnail for Benson Germanium Fuzz - Consistent Temperature Controlled Fuzz by AndyDemos

Benson Germanium Fuzz - Consistent Temperature Controlled Fuzz

AndyDemos

AndyDemos

Video thumbnail for Germanium Fuzz Mini-Doc and Demo by Benson Amps

Germanium Fuzz Mini-Doc and Demo

Benson Amps

Benson Amps

Video thumbnail for Benson Germanium Fuzz by Mike Hermans

Benson Germanium Fuzz

Mike Hermans

Mike Hermans

Video thumbnail for Benson Germanium Fuzz pedal | demo by RJ Ronquillo by R.J. Ronquillo

Benson Germanium Fuzz pedal | demo by RJ Ronquillo

R.J. Ronquillo

R.J. Ronquillo

Video thumbnail for The First Temperature Regulated Germanium Fuzz Face | BENSON FUZZ by JayLeonardJ

The First Temperature Regulated Germanium Fuzz Face | BENSON FUZZ

JayLeonardJ

JayLeonardJ

Video thumbnail for Demos in the Dark / Benson Amps Temperature Controlled Germanium Fuzz / Pedal Demo by Demos In The Dark

Demos in the Dark / Benson Amps Temperature Controlled Germanium Fuzz / Pedal Demo

Demos In The Dark

Demos In The Dark

Video thumbnail for Benson Germanium Fuzz | Secret Weapons Demo & Review by Mark Johnston

Benson Germanium Fuzz | Secret Weapons Demo & Review

Mark Johnston

Mark Johnston

Video thumbnail for Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz- Every Fuzz Problem Solved!! by Buddy Blues

Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz- Every Fuzz Problem Solved!!

Buddy Blues

Buddy Blues

Video thumbnail for Benson Amps - Germanium Fuzz by collector//emitter

Benson Amps - Germanium Fuzz

collector//emitter

collector//emitter

Video thumbnail for Benson Germanium Fuzz Teardown by Gray Bench Electronics

Benson Germanium Fuzz Teardown

Gray Bench Electronics

Gray Bench Electronics

Video thumbnail for Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz // Buffer Bypass by Demos In The Dark

Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz // Buffer Bypass

Demos In The Dark

Demos In The Dark

Video thumbnail for Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz by Pedal of the Day

Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz

Pedal of the Day

Pedal of the Day

Video thumbnail for Is the Benson Germanium Fuzz worth the Hype? by Riley Haynie

Is the Benson Germanium Fuzz worth the Hype?

Riley Haynie

Riley Haynie

Video thumbnail for Benson Amps GE Fuzz // Full Course Meal Pedal Demo by gearfever

Benson Amps GE Fuzz // Full Course Meal Pedal Demo

gearfever

gearfever

Video thumbnail for Acoustic Guitar with Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz by David Lee

Acoustic Guitar with Benson Amps Germanium Fuzz

David Lee

David Lee

Video thumbnail for Benson Germanium Fuzz by FiveStarGuitars

Benson Germanium Fuzz

FiveStarGuitars

FiveStarGuitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Clean boost capability enhances tube amp-like sound

  • Simple design with 3 knobs for easy sound adjustments

  • High-quality construction with warm fuzz sound

  • Versatile with both Marshall and Fender amps

  • Compatible with active electronics without buffer issues

  • Effective stacking with other drive pedals

  • Impedance knob subtly adjusts treble levels

  • Balanced sound with enough bass and treble to cut through mix

  • Internal heating mechanism for consistent performance

CONS

  • Pricey compared to other fuzz pedals

  • Lacks a dedicated tone knob

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Benson Germanium Fuzz.

Features and functionality

  • The impedance knob acts as an onboard volume control, removing grit and transitioning the pedal's tone from fuzz to overdrive or distortion.

    Source
  • An internal cooler stabilizes the pedal's temperature, ensuring consistent performance despite the inherent variability of germanium transistors.

    Source
  • Some users find the requirement to wait for the LED indicator to change colors before using the Benson inconvenient.

    Source
  • The newest Benson models include a bypass switch, enhancing the volume knob's usability for dynamic playing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Offers less gain than other germanium fuzz pedals but excels in providing a smooth, lower gain fuzz that can also function as a boost, drive, or distortion.

    Source
  • The Benson Germanium Fuzz is likened to a "Big Muff lite," offering a smoother, more polite tone compared to typical fuzz pedals.

    Source
  • Owners note that, unlike the Silktone Fuzz, the Benson Germanium Fuzz is not considered a Fuzz Face clone and offers a distinct sound profile.

    Source
  • The Benson is compared favorably to the Analogman Sunface for its unique sound profile but is noted to offer less customization in terms of transistor options.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The pedal achieves a perfect balance between overdrive and fuzz, with higher gain settings offering smooth, velvety tones and lower settings providing a sparkling boost.

    Source
  • The Benson excels in stacking, especially with a Klon-style pedal in front, enhancing its tonal range.

    Source
  • The Benson Germanium Fuzz can be placed anywhere in the signal chain without affecting performance, providing flexibility in setup.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Silktone Fuzz is noted as being slightly cheaper than the Benson in markets like the UK and Canada.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the pedal's performance even when placed after Wah, POG, and Univibe effects, maintaining sound quality before modulation and delay effects.

    Source
  • One owner found that the Benson provided satisfying results when used in conjunction with other pedals, like Klon-style overdrives, enhancing overall tonal range.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Benson Germanium Fuzz Review - From Clean Boost to Screaming Fuzz — SINESQUARES

sinesquares.net

The Benson Germanium Fuzz is an impressively versatile pedal that excels in delivering a range of tones from clean boosts to screaming fuzz. Its standout feature—automatic thermal bias technology—ensures consistent performance across varying temperatures, making it a reliable choice for touring musicians. The unique Impedance knob adds further flexibility, allowing seamless integration with different instruments. However, those seeking aggressive fuzz sounds may find it requires some pushing to achieve harsher tones. Overall, its beautiful design and neutral EQ make it a valuable addition to any pedalboard, though it might not satisfy players looking for extreme fuzz right out of the box.

positive

Benson Germanium Fuzz — That Guitar Lover

thatguitarlover.com

The Benson Germanium Fuzz is a standout in the crowded fuzz pedal market, addressing classic limitations with innovative thermal and impedance controls. Critics note its musicality, allowing for a versatile range from clean boost to fuzz without being overly harsh. However, it's not for those seeking extreme distortion or spitty sounds. The black enclosure's potential for overheating raises concerns, making the white option more appealing. Overall, this pedal is a solid choice for musicians looking for a nuanced fuzz experience, though it may not satisfy every fuzz aficionado's wildest dreams.

positive

Benson Germanium Fuzz Review: Benson’s new fuzz pedal is a temperature-controlled game-changer

guitar.com

The Benson Germanium Fuzz is a standout in the crowded fuzz pedal market, offering a meticulous blend of innovation and performance. Its temperature-controlled design addresses the common frustrations of germanium pedals, ensuring consistent sound across varying conditions. Musicians can expect a rich array of tones, particularly excelling in mid-to-low gain settings that deliver a dynamic and responsive experience. However, its premium price tag might deter budget-conscious players. While it boasts a remarkable sonic versatility, some may find it less appealing compared to more affordable options. Overall, this pedal is a fantastic choice for those willing to invest in high-quality fuzz.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
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1 star
wadeluigi

My favourite fuzz

I bought this as my first high-end boutique fuzz and it remains my favourite despite now playing fuzzes that are two or three times the cost. Not only is it a great fuzz but it’s a great overdrive and a great boost, with simple controls that make it easy to quickly adjust. Benson products are the sounds in my head, and this exemplifies that.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Mikey Way uses Benson Germanium Fuzz

Mikey Way

Bassist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Photo

On this promotional video Fender made for Mikey's new signature Jazz bass, you can see his pedalboard next to him, which has a WHITE Benson Germanium Fuzz on the top left corner

See how Scott Mills uses Benson Germanium Fuzz

Scott Mills

Guitarist

Colony House

...
Verified via Photo

Scott Mills is confirmed to use the Benson Germanium Fuzz pedal, as evidenced by a photo shared on his Instagram story.

See how MORRIE uses Benson Germanium Fuzz

MORRIE

Singer, Guitarist

DEAD END

...
Verified via Photo

On April 5, 2021, MORRIE shared a photo on Instagram featuring the Benson Germanium Fuzz pedal, highlighting its role in his setup.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Benson Germanium Fuzz, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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meerk

meerk

Gear IQ 202

wadeluigi

wadeluigi

Gear IQ 1320

wadeluigi

wadeluigi

Gear IQ 1320

wadeluigi

wadeluigi

Gear IQ 1320

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