Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,100

High-end/Boutique

$60

$181+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Unleash your inner rockstar with the Lovetone Big Cheese, an iconic fuzz effect pedal that hails from the UK. This audacious orange box offers a smorgasbord of innovative fuzz tones, from the glitchy to the creamy, making it a coveted piece of gear in the musician community. Its distinctive control knobs - Curds, Why, and Hog/Bee - offer an intriguing twist on traditional gain, volume, and tone adjustments, while its 4-way tone selector switch opens up a world of sonic possibilities. Whether you're channeling the ethereal soundscapes of Kevin Shields or the thunderous riffs of Billy Corgan, the Big Cheese is your ticket to fuzz heaven.

Key Features: * Unique controls named Curds (Gain), Why (Volume), and Hog/Bee (Tone) * 4-way tone selector switch for versatile fuzz effects * Offers a range of fuzz tones, from glitchy to creamy * Made in the UK during the mid- to late-1990s

Product specs

Brand Lovetone
Model Big Cheese
Finish Orange
Year 1990s
Made In United Kingdom
Categories Distortion Pedals, Fuzz Pedals and Effects

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Lovetone Big Cheese fuzz pedal?

The Lovetone Big Cheese is known for its versatile fuzz tones, ranging from a smooth, creamy overdrive to a biting, aggressive fuzz. It's ideal for players looking to achieve a wide range of fuzz sounds, from vintage to modern.

Does the Lovetone Big Cheese work well with both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Lovetone Big Cheese is compatible with both guitar and bass, offering unique tonal characteristics that enhance the sound of either instrument. Its versatility makes it a favorite among musicians seeking a distinctive fuzz effect.

What are the key features of the Lovetone Big Cheese fuzz pedal?

The Lovetone Big Cheese features a dynamic range of fuzz tones, an intuitive control layout, and a robust build quality. It also includes a unique tone control that allows for significant tonal shaping, making it a highly adaptable pedal for various musical styles.

How does the Lovetone Big Cheese compare to other fuzz pedals?

The Lovetone Big Cheese is renowned for its distinct sound and versatility, setting it apart from many other fuzz pedals. Its ability to produce both classic and modern fuzz tones, along with its unique tone-shaping capabilities, makes it a standout choice for fuzz enthusiasts.

Is the Lovetone Big Cheese suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Lovetone Big Cheese is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its durable construction and wide range of fuzz tones. Its ability to cut through a mix makes it an excellent choice for guitarists and bassists performing on stage.

blondegraemey

blondegraemey

Lovetone Big Cheese

Video thumbnail for Lovetone Big Cheese by blondegraemey

Lovetone Big Cheese

blondegraemey

blondegraemey

Video thumbnail for Lovetone Big Cheese Fuzz Demo by drowninginguitars

Lovetone Big Cheese Fuzz Demo

drowninginguitars

drowninginguitars

Video thumbnail for Lovetone Big Cheese by Vintage Stompboxes

Lovetone Big Cheese

Vintage Stompboxes

Vintage Stompboxes

Video thumbnail for Lovetone - Big cheese fuzz quick demo/ gretsch black falcon - vintage Vox ac30 tbx (mid 90's) by tonemaster1

Lovetone - Big cheese fuzz quick demo/ gretsch black falcon - vintage Vox ac30 tbx (mid 90's)

tonemaster1

tonemaster1

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Lovetone Big Cheese.

Use cases and applications

  • The Lovetone Big Cheese is known for producing iconic fuzz tones reminiscent of Pavement and Wilco albums, specifically "Brighten the Corners" and "Terror Twilight."

    Source
  • Mode 2 and 4 are highlighted as standout options for tone sculpting, offering diverse sonic possibilities.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • It's noted that the Big Cheese was used on Radiohead's "Packt Like Sardines In A Crushd Tin Box" and "The National Anthem," showcasing its versatility across different music styles.

    Source
  • Mode 4 offers a super gated velcro fuzz effect; activating a boost pedal before it enhances this mode significantly.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The OLC Chunky Cheese is frequently recommended as a reliable clone for the Lovetone Big Cheese, offering similar tonal qualities and versatility.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Despite being a rare find, owners believe the Lovetone Big Cheese lives up to its hype, unlike some other over-hyped pedals like the Klon.

    Source

User experience

  • One owner shared that their model, built in 2000, was previously owned by Josh Scott from JHS, adding historical value to the pedal.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners have customized their Big Cheese clones with purple chickenhead knobs for an orange/purple aesthetic.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some clones arrive with blue knobs, but users suggest changing to more visually appealing options like chickenhead knobs.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
eddie_sabotage

Big Cheese Fuzz Box

The one that got away. This was the best fuzz pedal I have ever owned. And I'm gonna get it back. Somehow, some way and then that selector switch goes on the wedge of swiss and may guitar will break apart in the most incredible way! This is a pedal that not only gives you a pallet of 60 and 70's best fuzzies, but it brings something quite new to the table - even if it was designed in the much maligned 90s. Listen, timeless is timeless so open up a bottle of wine and gently sink into it - because the Big Cheese tastes sooooo good! (what that too cheesey?)

F

JHS has made a copy, the Cheese Ball.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Stephen Malkmus uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Stephen Malkmus

Guitarist, Singer

Pavement

...
Verified via Twitter

Spotted in group, seen on Malkmus' board

See how Nikki Sixx uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Nikki Sixx

Singer, Bassist

Mötley Crüe

...
Verified

Listed on the official Lovetone "Clients" page.

Nikki Sixx MB/DG/BC/WL/RS

See how Bootsy Collins uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Bootsy Collins

Singer, Bassist

Funkadelic

...
Verified

Listed on the official Lovetone "Clients" page.

Bootsy Collins MB/DG/BS/BC

See how Billy Duffy uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Billy Duffy

Guitarist

The Cult

...
Verified

Listed on the official Lovetone "Clients" page.

Billy Duffy MB/DG/BS/BC/WL

See how Steve Hackett uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Steve Hackett

Guitarist

Genesis

...
Verified via Hackettsongs

On Steve Hackett's official website, he lists the Lovetone Big Cheese fuzz pedal as one of his pedals.

See how Larry Graham uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Larry Graham

Bassist

Sly & the Family Stone

...
Verified

Listed on the official Lovetone "Clients" page.

Larry Graham MB/BC

See how Nick McCabe uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Nick McCabe

Guitarist

The Verve

...
Verified via Photo

Lovetone Big Cheese shown next to EHX Small Clone on Nick's pedalboard during The Verve's live session at Maida Vale for Zane Lowe on Radio 1.

https://youtu.be/oIhddrAU-FY

Photos of Nick's Pedalboard are shown in this thread at the Gear Page

https://www.thegearpage.net/board/index.php?threads/the-verve-nick-mccabe.406703/page-2

See how Porl Thompson uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Porl Thompson

Guitarist

The Cure

...
Verified via the-saleroom.com

According to Omega auctions, he also auctioned off 4 Lovetone pedals - with one being "Big Cheese".

See how Doug Wimbish uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Doug Wimbish

Bassist

Living Colour

...
Verified

Listed on the official Lovetone "Clients" page.

Doug Wimbish MB/BS/BC

See how Robbie Robertson uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Robbie Robertson

Guitarist

The Band

...
Verified via Robbie-robertson

According to his "gear list", Robertson uses the Lovetone Big Cheese pedal.

See how Will Sergeant uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Will Sergeant

Guitarist

Echo & the Bunnymen

...
Verified

Listed on the official Lovetone "Clients" page.

Will Sergeant MB/DG/BC

See how Drew Shirley uses Lovetone Big Cheese

Drew Shirley

Guitarist

Switchfoot

...
Verified via Photo

Drew Shirley features the Lovetone Big Cheese fuzz pedal on his rig, as highlighted in a post by Walrus Audio on Facebook.

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 Lovetone Big Cheese, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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34
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23
Lovetone Brown Source
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18
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17
Lovetone Ring Stinger
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8
Colorsound Tonebender
Colorsound Tonebender Fuzz Effects Pedals
2
Cornford RK100
Cornford RK100 Guitar Amplifier Heads
1
Roland AF-100 BeeBaa
Roland AF-100 BeeBaa Fuzz Effects Pedals
1

9 alternative and related items for Lovetone Big Cheese, curated by the Equipboard community.

ThorpyFX The Field Marshal Fuzz

$269.00

similar sound newer

Designed in collaboration with Lovetone co-founder Dan Coggins, The Field Marshall is described as "a MKII version of the Big Cheese fuzz" in the official product description: https://thorpyfx.com/collections/thorpyfx-pedals/products/the-field-marshal-fuzz

The FIELD MARSHAL is a MKII version of the Big Cheese fuzz. Smaller, louder and more tonally flexible than the original it sits perfectly on a modern pedalboard.

JHS Cheese Ball

$169.00 - $179.00

similar sound cheaper alternative

The JHS Cheese Ball is described as a faithful and accurate recreation of the Big Cheese circuit, in a more compact enclosure.

GigaHearts_FX Mecha Feta

 

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

Based on the Big Cheese: https://reverb.com/item/36139887-gigahearts_fx-mecha-feta

Little Big Tone Cheddar

 

similar sound cheaper alternative

A boutique clone of the Big Cheese, available at a much lower price point.

Lovetone Cheese Source

$1,194.15

Vintage or Discontinued high-end alternative

The Big Cheese was one of the eponymous halves of the Cheese Source.

More Lovetone Fuzz Effects Pedals

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

Gear Guides

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    Gear IQ 445