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Description

Deep black mud is covering his jaws, but the rising sun reveals the glancing brake draped antlers of the majestic dead stag. His massive blast of distortion will tear down even the thickest boondock wilderness and set the world on fire.

The Dead Stag is based on one of the most classic discrete fuzz/distortion circuits in pedal history. This design has been built into countless versions by many pedal builders along the last forty odd years, however we wanted to take the evolution further than ever before and give you a Big Muff style pedal, but one with many more tonal options and smart features to make as versatile a fuzz/distortion pedal as possible.

Product specs

Brand KMA Audio Machines
Model Dead Stag Discrete Fuzz / Distortion
Finish White
Year 2016 - 2021
Made In Germany
Categories Distortion Pedals, Fuzz Pedals and Effects
Pedal Format Standard

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the KMA Machines Dead Stag?

The KMA Machines Dead Stag offers a versatile range of fuzz and distortion tones, from thick, saturated fuzz to aggressive distortion, making it suitable for various genres like rock, metal, and alternative.

Does the KMA Machines Dead Stag work well with both guitar and bass?

Yes, the KMA Machines Dead Stag is designed to perform well with both electric guitars and bass guitars, providing a powerful and dynamic fuzz/distortion effect for each.

What power supply is required for the KMA Machines Dead Stag?

The KMA Machines Dead Stag requires a standard 9V DC power supply with a negative center pin, which is typical for most guitar pedals.

How does the KMA Machines Dead Stag compare to other fuzz pedals?

The KMA Machines Dead Stag stands out due to its discrete circuit design and the ability to switch between fuzz and distortion, offering more tonal flexibility compared to traditional fuzz pedals.

Is the KMA Machines Dead Stag suitable for live performances?

Yes, the KMA Machines Dead Stag is built with high-quality components and a sturdy design, making it reliable for live performances and robust enough to handle frequent use.

KMA Machines

KMA Machines

KMA Machines - Dead Stag Fuzz/Distortion - Official Studio Demo

Video thumbnail for KMA Machines - Dead Stag Fuzz/Distortion - Official Studio Demo by KMA Machines

KMA Machines - Dead Stag Fuzz/Distortion - Official Studio Demo

KMA Machines

KMA Machines

Video thumbnail for KMA Audio Machines - Dead Stag - GUITAR Demo by MrExcane

KMA Audio Machines - Dead Stag - GUITAR Demo

MrExcane

MrExcane

Video thumbnail for KMA Audio Machines - Dead Stag by collector//emitter

KMA Audio Machines - Dead Stag

collector//emitter

collector//emitter

Video thumbnail for KMA Audio Machines DEAD STAG - Demo by Alberto Barrero by Alberto Barrero

KMA Audio Machines DEAD STAG - Demo by Alberto Barrero

Alberto Barrero

Alberto Barrero

Video thumbnail for KMA Machines - Dead Stag Teaser by KMA Machines

KMA Machines - Dead Stag Teaser

KMA Machines

KMA Machines

Video thumbnail for KMA Machines Dead Stag Fuzz Distortion by Pedal of the Day

KMA Machines Dead Stag Fuzz Distortion

Pedal of the Day

Pedal of the Day

Video thumbnail for New favorite pedal? KMA Audio Machines Chief Disruptor vs Dead Stag (Pedal Face-Off) by Dome

New favorite pedal? KMA Audio Machines Chief Disruptor vs Dead Stag (Pedal Face-Off)

Dome

Dome

Video thumbnail for KMA Machines Dead Stag by Iga Massardi

KMA Machines Dead Stag

Iga Massardi

Iga Massardi

Video thumbnail for Pedal Vault – KMA Audio Machines Dead Stag Distortion/Fuzz Pedal review by Dome

Pedal Vault – KMA Audio Machines Dead Stag Distortion/Fuzz Pedal review

Dome

Dome

Video thumbnail for The Chainsaw Files - KMA Audio Machines Dead Stag vs Boss HM-2 clone comparison by Dome

The Chainsaw Files - KMA Audio Machines Dead Stag vs Boss HM-2 clone comparison

Dome

Dome

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about KMA Machines Dead Stag.

Features and functionality

  • The Dead Stag's EQ section is highlighted for its versatility, offering more tonal options than typical Big Muff-style fuzz pedals.

    Source
  • The Dead Stag features a 3-band parametric EQ similar to a Metalzone, allowing for a wide range of tonal adjustments from scooped to mid-pushed tones.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners compare the Dead Stag to the Deluxe Big Muff for its tweakable nature and to the Fuzzly Bear, noting the Stag's EQ as a selling point.

    Source
  • Another KMA pedal, the 'Logan,' was noted for its low mid-range drive, indicating potential pairing options with the Dead Stag.

    Source
  • While not a classic Big Muff sound, the Dead Stag offers a unique fuzz experience, maintaining the muff character while providing expanded tone sculpting capabilities.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Dead Stag is appreciated for its ability to provide classic muff-style fuzz with enhanced tonal versatility suitable for various music styles.

    Source
  • A user reported using the Dead Stag in EAEABE tuning, showcasing its versatility in non-standard tunings.

    Source

User experience

  • Enthusiasts are excited to see the pedal "in the wild," indicating a niche but passionate user base.

    Source

Critic Reviews

KMA Machines Dead Stag review on pedal-of-the-day.com

pedal-of-the-day.com

The KMA Machines Dead Stag Fuzz Distortion pedal is a versatile powerhouse, marrying classic Big Muff-style fuzz with modern tonal flexibility. With extensive controls including active treble and bass, parametric mid control, and a choice between smooth or edgy sound, it offers musicians a vast range of distortion textures. While its myriad features might overwhelm beginners, seasoned players will appreciate its ability to craft precise, impactful sounds. This pedal shines for those seeking an adaptable fuzz and distortion solution, though its complexity might not suit everyone. Overall, a robust addition to any pedalboard.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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1 star
G

Hard-Hitting, Foundation Vibrating, Raw Fuzz

First of all, the versatility in this pedal allows tones ranging from Hendrix all the way to Sleep, saying it sounds great would be an understatement for this pedal. It's one of my favorite to mess around with on my pedal-board and a great edition to anyone's rig.

lewiss

Mud, Spice And All Things Nice.

Describing this pedal as simply a 'fuzz' just doesn't serve it justice. An amazing array of tonal control lets you dial in anything from a smooth buttery drive sound, to a thick fizz that feels just like biting into a car battery. This pedal will completely overhaul your sound in ways you didn't think possible.

Genre Usage

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

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