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Average Price: $340

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$60

$181+

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Description

Experience the power and might of the Cold War-era circuitry in the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C. This green beast, housed in a solid metal chassis, offers a commanding fuzz effect that's as resilient as a tank. It's not just a guitar pedal, it's a symbol of sonic supremacy, designed for musicians who dare to lead the fuzz frontier.

Key Features:

  • Robust all-metal chassis, painted in a distinct green
  • Utilizes authentic Russian Cold War-era circuitry
  • Delivers a powerful and commanding fuzz effect
  • Ideal for guitarists seeking to dominate in the fuzz genre.

Product specs

Brand Electro-Harmonix
Model Big Muff Pi V7 (Green Russian)
Finish Green
Year 1994 - 2000
Made In Russia
Categories Distortion Pedals, Fuzz Pedals and Effects
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C?

The Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C is known for its thick, creamy fuzz with a pronounced mid-scoop, delivering a distinctive, vintage tone that is ideal for heavy rock and grunge music.

Is the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C suitable for bass guitar?

Yes, the Green Russian Big Muff Pi is popular among bassists for its ability to maintain low-end clarity while adding a rich, fuzzy texture to the sound.

Does the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C require a specific power supply?

The Green Russian Big Muff Pi V7C can be powered by a standard 9V battery or a compatible 9V DC power adapter, which is a common requirement for many effects pedals.

How does the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C differ from other Big Muff models?

The Green Russian variant is prized for its unique tonal characteristics, offering a more aggressive, gritty sound compared to the smoother, more compressed tones of other Big Muff models like the NYC or Triangle versions.

Is the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C easy to use for beginners?

Yes, the Green Russian Big Muff Pi V7C is straightforward to use with simple controls for volume, tone, and sustain, making it accessible for beginners looking to explore fuzz effects.

Absolute Music

Absolute Music

Green Russian Big Muff- What's all the fuzz?

Video thumbnail for Green Russian Big Muff- What's all the fuzz? by Absolute Music

Green Russian Big Muff- What's all the fuzz?

Absolute Music

Absolute Music

Video thumbnail for Big Muff Shootout Sovtek Green Russian vs Civil War Big Muff Pi comparison by gearmanndude

Big Muff Shootout Sovtek Green Russian vs Civil War Big Muff Pi comparison

gearmanndude

gearmanndude

Video thumbnail for Big Muff shoot-out | NYC vs Green Russian / Sovtek | Electro-Harmonix by JJ Tanis

Big Muff shoot-out | NYC vs Green Russian / Sovtek | Electro-Harmonix

JJ Tanis

JJ Tanis

Video thumbnail for EHX Sovtek Green Big Muff Russian by Alex T

EHX Sovtek Green Big Muff Russian

Alex T

Alex T

Video thumbnail for Review: Sovtek Fuzz Wars with Scott Shriner & Jonathan Hischke by Pedals and Effects

Review: Sovtek Fuzz Wars with Scott Shriner & Jonathan Hischke

Pedals and Effects

Pedals and Effects

Video thumbnail for Blast From The Past: The EHX/Sovtek Russian Big Muff by Riffs, Beards & Gear

Blast From The Past: The EHX/Sovtek Russian Big Muff

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Riffs, Beards & Gear

Video thumbnail for Pedals And Effects: Sovtek Fuzz Comparisons with Reverb.com by Pedals and Effects

Pedals And Effects: Sovtek Fuzz Comparisons with Reverb.com

Pedals and Effects

Pedals and Effects

Video thumbnail for What’s your favorite of the EHX Big Muff Pi? #fuzz #ehx #electroharmonix #bigmuff #bigmuffpi by Does It Doom?

What’s your favorite of the EHX Big Muff Pi? #fuzz #ehx #electroharmonix #bigmuff #bigmuffpi

Does It Doom?

Does It Doom?

Video thumbnail for PedalsAndEffects: Fuzz Wars with Sovteks & Salt in the City of Angels by Pedals and Effects

PedalsAndEffects: Fuzz Wars with Sovteks & Salt in the City of Angels

Pedals and Effects

Pedals and Effects

Video thumbnail for 1990s Electro-Harmonix Russian Big Muff by Joe Perkins

1990s Electro-Harmonix Russian Big Muff

Joe Perkins

Joe Perkins

Video thumbnail for Review: Sovtek Fuzz Wars with Scott Shriner & Jonathan Hischke part 2 by Pedals and Effects

Review: Sovtek Fuzz Wars with Scott Shriner & Jonathan Hischke part 2

Pedals and Effects

Pedals and Effects

Video thumbnail for Electro Harmonix Sovtek Green Russian Big Muff pi fuzz by Alex T

Electro Harmonix Sovtek Green Russian Big Muff pi fuzz

Alex T

Alex T

Video thumbnail for A look under the hood of this 90’s EHX V7C Green Russian Big Muff as we fix some pot alignments. by Does It Doom?

A look under the hood of this 90’s EHX V7C Green Russian Big Muff as we fix some pot alignments.

Does It Doom?

Does It Doom?

Video thumbnail for VINTAGE ELECTRO HARMONIX TALL FONT BIG MUFF by The Pedal Picassos

VINTAGE ELECTRO HARMONIX TALL FONT BIG MUFF

The Pedal Picassos

The Pedal Picassos

Video thumbnail for Electro Harmonix 'Tall Font' Green Russian Big Muff by Pedal Science

Electro Harmonix 'Tall Font' Green Russian Big Muff

Pedal Science

Pedal Science

Video thumbnail for Sovtek Tall Font Green Russian Big Muff Pi by fuzzz

Sovtek Tall Font Green Russian Big Muff Pi

fuzzz

fuzzz

Video thumbnail for EHX / Sovtek Tall Font Green Russian Big Muff! Oscilloscope + sound demo by jack's workshop

EHX / Sovtek Tall Font Green Russian Big Muff! Oscilloscope + sound demo

jack's workshop

jack's workshop

Video thumbnail for Mr G plays a G - EHX Sovtek Big Muff Pi (V7 Bubble Font) by Mr G plays a G

Mr G plays a G - EHX Sovtek Big Muff Pi (V7 Bubble Font)

Mr G plays a G

Mr G plays a G

Video thumbnail for ElectroHarmonix Green Russian Bigmuff Shootout(tallfont,bubblefont,reissue)on guitar by sublow326

ElectroHarmonix Green Russian Bigmuff Shootout(tallfont,bubblefont,reissue)on guitar

sublow326

sublow326

Video thumbnail for Sovtek Green Russian Big Muff Pi (v7 Bubble Font) by Bredda

Sovtek Green Russian Big Muff Pi (v7 Bubble Font)

Bredda

Bredda

Reviews

PROS

  • Original '94 V7 model offers a unique, irreplaceable tone

  • Ideal for achieving the thick, gritty sound characteristic of stoner rock

  • Versatile tone range from smooth to aggressive fuzz-distortion

  • Durable build, described as "built like a tank"

  • Provides a substantial low-end boost, suitable for bass

  • Sought after for its historical and tonal significance

  • Offers more sustain and a smoother sound compared to other models

  • Frequently recommended as a go-to fuzz pedal in studio settings

CONS

  • Extra low-end can result in a "swampy" sound, potentially overpowering

  • Midrange can be less pronounced, affecting clarity

  • Switch reliability issues reported, affecting long-term use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C.

Comparisons

  • The Green Russian has more low end and a rougher distortion, while the Deluxe Sovtek's extra controls can detract from its tone.

    Source
  • The Angry Black Bear from Chicago Stompworks is noted for its wooly low-end sound, closely resembling the V7C Muff, similar to the Bubble Font Green Russian.

    Source
  • The Wren and Cuff Tall Font Russian clone is noted for replicating the sound of original Sovtek pedals more accurately than other alternatives.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Deluxe Sovtek includes a blend knob that allows a transition from clean to full fuzz, which some users find valuable.

    Source
  • The Deluxe Sovtek has versatile frequency and boosting controls, but might require an additional EQ for optimal performance.

    Source
  • A built-in noise gate on the Deluxe Sovtek is highlighted as a significant advantage by some users.

    Source
  • The Green Russian reissue is described as smoother compared to the Black Russian's harsher edge, potentially beneficial for those combining with other gain pedals.

    Source
  • The Skreddy Perestroika is recommended for live settings due to its higher volume output and scoop/flat switch for better sound projection.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Bass Big Muff is suggested for those seeking a Black Russian sound in a compact format, ideal for guitarists needing board space.

    Source
  • The Green Russian Reissue is frequently used for recording, with users noting its wooly and dark tone as ideal for EP production.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Bass Big Muff is praised for its sound but criticized for its fragility, with plastic jacks being a common failure point.

    Source
  • The reissue's paint durability is praised, contrasting with the original's tendency for paint wear.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Green Russian Reissue is frequently highlighted for its exceptional value, often found used for around $50, delivering 90% of the original's sound.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the reissue report it feels compressed and less able to cut through the mix compared to other high-end clones.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 11 Reviews and 68 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
andris_gabor

A piece of history

This old EHX pedal has been known for it's aggressive fuzz-distortion sound specially in the stoner rock community. Countless recordings from the 90's were made with this beast. Rumour has it that te box of the pedal was made of the leftovers of Russian military vehicles and warmachines. Well it really sounds like a landslide, explosion, or the fallen angel blowing that trumpet.

jimmarchi1

gah

everything you hate about the big muff now with extra low end swamp, less midrange and a really unreliable switch! I used this as a bassist for years though and loved that sound, but the switch gave out... my black Russian never sounded as full for bass.

skytimesfive

have to say i agree, loved mine on bass while i had it really didnt get the appeal on guitar much preferred my rat

jimmarchi1

@skytimesfive I had to dock it a couple points for being close to useless on guitar and I can't give any big muff a full five stars... th er y all swallow your dynamics and touch. Only Gilmour can make them work but his fuzz face tone was still better.

mikefiction

My Current Fav Fuzz

This a grown to be my go to fuzz in the studio, and I have a lot of fuzz pedals!. A witch owned this before me and cast a mojo spell on it. It's the only possible explanation.

It's raunchy and rude and beautiful and I love it.

peasinafookinpod420

my favorite fuzz

if I am not using my DS-2, then I am most likely using the Sovtek Big Muff. I use it (combined with the JHS Unicorn and Small Clone) on almost every solo on every song I have played. it just is great and will 100% recommend.

A

The real thing

A very hard hitting fuzz that has a large tonal range from sweet to harsh.

From Gear Setup
mkn_upa

One of my first fuzz

If it's a fuzz ... but well this pedal was so unique... I gave it and now I've the ehx reissue

josh_barton

HUGE

Absolutely worth buying if you can find one for a decent price. For me, it's preferable to a standard Big Muff but not necessarily better. It's a monster though.

darel

Classic tone.

It have more bass than the NYC one. For me it sounds better. This is a piece of history. EHX sure did a big mistake when they stopped the Russian labeled series and called green muff a bass one. It is confusing.

rothhandlestudios

Built like a tank.

We use it mostly on Rickenbacker bass. Sounds great.

Genres:
From Gear Setup
tel_nobody

Green Russian Big Muff

Series 7c Big Muff made in Russia. Thicker tone than US muffs with plenty of sustain.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how John Frusciante uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

John Frusciante

Guitarist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via YouTube

frusciante is known for both big muffs, it is mentioned in the video and it can be seen on various live pedalboards

See how Dan Auerbach uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Dan Auerbach

Guitarist, Keyboardist

The Black Keys

...
Verified via YouTube

Dan shows this fuzzbox in a gear rundown, around 3:40 in the video.

See how Chris Wolstenholme uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Chris Wolstenholme

Singer, Guitarist

Muse

...
Verified via Photo

Seen in his Showbiz-era pedalboard. Used before he replaced it with a Black Russian Big Muff.

See how Mick Thomson uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Mick Thomson

Guitarist

Slipknot

...
Verified via MusicRadar

In a MusicRadar article authored by Amit Sharma titled "In pictures: Slipknot’s Mick Thomson shares his favourite guitars and gear from an extensive collection," Mick Thomson is shown with a variety of his guitar pedals, including the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C. Although Thomson does not discuss this specific pedal in the article, its presence in his collection is clearly documented through the accompanying images.

See how Thurston Moore uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Thurston Moore

Singer, Guitarist

Sonic Youth

...
Verified via YouTube

Lot 41 in the 2020 Cafe OTO COVID-19 Fundraiser Auction. This March 19, 2020 video was recorded to promote the auction.

Hi, my name is Thurston Moore and I am offering this Sovtek Big Muff pedal that was made in probably the 1990s... 1980s, 1990s, to Cafe OTO for their auction for getting some new equipment into the space. This pedal I used for about ten years in Sonic Youth and I think 2004 to 2014 is when I purchased it, uh, somewhere. Went through a few of these through the years and they would just like, I would just... they would just die. I would just kill them on tour. This one went through the wars, as you can see it's really, like, went through the wars. It might even still work. I haven't used it in quite some time. It is an objet d'art as they say [laughs] somewhere. I've inscribed it. It's a conversation piece and it's yours if you would like to bid on it.

See how Mike Einziger uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Mike Einziger

Guitarist

Incubus

...
Verified via Photo

In this pic, the pedal next to the DMM looks a lot like a black Sovtek Muff

See how Gerard Way uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Gerard Way

Singer, Guitarist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Instagram

Gerard Way showcases the Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C on his Instagram, where he shares a series of videos playing through his collection of fuzz pedals.

See how Kurt Vile uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Kurt Vile

Guitarist, Singer

The War on Drugs

...
Verified via YouTube

at 41min 18sec in the attached video talks about his re-cased Sovtek

See how Troy Sanders uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Troy Sanders

Singer, Bassist

Mastodon

...
Verified via Redbullmusicacademy

Mentioned in this October 13, 2017 Red Bull Music Academy article.

“It doesn’t get too high-end and cut through and make an unpleasant sound to the ears,” says Troy Sanders, who plays bass in Atlanta metal pioneers Mastodon. “It’s just the thickest, purest, roundest, warmest, most glorious bass distortion sound that I’ve ever had.” The Big Muff also holds a curious position in guitar history: It’s a gold standard as far as distortion pedals go, but it also serves as a barrier-breaker to get into other kinds of effects, too. “That is the gateway sonic drug that’s now got me addicted to pedals,” Sanders laughs. “I don’t blame myself, I blame the Big Muff. I blame the green, Russian-made Big Muff for all my problems and successes.”

See how Robin Finck uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Robin Finck

Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Photo

Here's a picture of Robin Finck of Nine Inch Nails and Guns N' Roses, posing with his pedal board, including the Electro-Harmonix Green Russian in the middle, on the top row.

See how Adrian Utley uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Adrian Utley

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Portishead

...
Verified via Photo

in this Instagram post, the Green Russian can be seen on the first stair by the XP-300

See how Jake E. Lee uses Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C

Jake E. Lee

Guitarist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified via Naver

Used on "I Magnify", as specified in this July 20, 2012 breakdown of a A Fine Pink Mist gear list printed in the October 1996 issue of Young Guitar.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Electro-Harmonix Sovtek "Green Russian" Big Muff Pi V7C, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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5
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3
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3
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3

Community setups

Show yours
rothhandlestudios

rothhandlestudios

Gear IQ 1963

tylerrosier

tylerrosier

Gear IQ 322

G

g211_masonian

Gear IQ 90

tel_nobody

tel_nobody

Gear IQ 3007

sacha_il_bove_show

sacha_il_bove_show

Gear IQ 937

alex_botten

alex_botten

Gear IQ 123

A

andreas_osterlund

Gear IQ 273

3ipol

3ipol

Gear IQ 463

skytimesfive

skytimesfive

Gear IQ 633

sascha_petrovich

sascha_petrovich

Gear IQ 197

A

andreas_osterlund

Gear IQ 273

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