Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $399

High-end/Boutique

$70

$201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Malekko Heavy Industry B:ASSMASTER is a dynamic instrument that brings the retro vibe of the Maestro Bass Brassmaster octave fuzz into the current era. This pedal offers a delightful blend of octave overdrive and distortion, wrapped up in a modern, noiseless, and manageable unit. Equipped with an expression jack, the B:ASSMASTER allows for meticulous control over your sound. With its three knobs and two switches, you can effortlessly shape the tone, harmonics, and balance between dry and wet mix. This pedal is a rockstar when it comes to delivering fuzzy distortion specifically tailored for basses.

Key Features:

  • Inspired by the legendary Maestro Bass Brassmaster octave fuzz
  • Provides octave overdrive and distortion in a noiseless pedal
  • Expression jack for convenient control
  • Three knobs and two switches for precise tonal and overtone shaping
  • Perfectly creates fuzzy distortion for basses

Product specs

Brand Malekko
Model B:assmaster
Finish Brown
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Distortion Pedals, Fuzz Pedals and Effects

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Malekko B:assmaster Octave Fuzz?

The Malekko B:assmaster delivers a thick, aggressive fuzz with a strong octave-up effect, ideal for bass players seeking a vintage-inspired, synth-like distortion. It's known for its ability to cut through the mix with a rich, harmonic texture.

Is the Malekko B:assmaster suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Malekko B:assmaster is well-suited for live performances thanks to its robust build and ability to produce powerful, distinctive fuzz tones that maintain clarity and presence on stage.

Does the Malekko B:assmaster work well with both active and passive bass pickups?

The Malekko B:assmaster is compatible with both active and passive bass pickups, providing a versatile fuzz effect that enhances the tonal characteristics of different bass types.

Can the Malekko B:assmaster be used with a guitar?

While designed for bass, the Malekko B:assmaster can also be used with a guitar, offering unique fuzz tones and octave effects that can add a distinctive edge to your guitar sound.

What power supply does the Malekko B:assmaster require?

The Malekko B:assmaster requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is commonly used with most guitar and bass pedals, ensuring easy integration into your pedalboard setup.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

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Video thumbnail for Malekko Barker Assmaster Germanium Fuzz Pedal by ProGuitarShopDemos

Malekko Barker Assmaster Germanium Fuzz Pedal

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for Malekko Barker Assmaster Fuzz Pedal by ProGuitarShopDemos

Malekko Barker Assmaster Fuzz Pedal

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for Malekko B:assmaster [Bass Demo] by Patrick Hunter

Malekko B:assmaster [Bass Demo]

Patrick Hunter

Patrick Hunter

Video thumbnail for Malekko B:ASSMASTER Bass Octave fuzz official factory video by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko B:ASSMASTER Bass Octave fuzz official factory video

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko Barker Assmaster Germanium Distortion | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar by Chicago Music Exchange

Malekko Barker Assmaster Germanium Distortion | CME Gear Demo | Marc Najjar

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago Music Exchange

Video thumbnail for Silicon or Germanium ? Which Malekko B:assmaster to choose? by Nico Levy

Silicon or Germanium ? Which Malekko B:assmaster to choose?

Nico Levy

Nico Levy

Video thumbnail for MALEKKO BARKER B:ASSMASTER DEMO (rare pedal) by Toolmybass

MALEKKO BARKER B:ASSMASTER DEMO (rare pedal)

Toolmybass

Toolmybass

Video thumbnail for Malekko B:ASSMASTER official factory video 2 by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko B:ASSMASTER official factory video 2

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko COMP_ASSMASTER_616 official factory video.2 by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko COMP_ASSMASTER_616 official factory video.2

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko B:Assmaster - Harmonic Octave Fuzz by TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Malekko B:Assmaster - Harmonic Octave Fuzz

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

TheSuperFunAwesomeHappyTimePedalShow

Video thumbnail for Malekko B:ASSMASTER Bass Review - Henry the Pedal Head by Henry The Pedal Head

Malekko B:ASSMASTER Bass Review - Henry the Pedal Head

Henry The Pedal Head

Henry The Pedal Head

Video thumbnail for Malekko COMP_SPRING_B:ASSMASTER.2 official factory video by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko COMP_SPRING_B:ASSMASTER.2 official factory video

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko COMP_SPRING_B:ASSMASTER.1 official factory video by Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko COMP_SPRING_B:ASSMASTER.1 official factory video

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Malekko HeavyIndustry

Video thumbnail for Malekko B:assmaster Demo & Comparison - Silicon vs Germanium by ericplaysbass

Malekko B:assmaster Demo & Comparison - Silicon vs Germanium

ericplaysbass

ericplaysbass

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique balance/blend knob enhances sound versatility

  • Voice filters add depth to tone customization

  • Cuts through the mix, ensuring presence in live settings

  • Offers a distinctive doom sound for bassists

  • Germanium version provides a cool fuzz with tweakable settings

  • Versatile octave up fuzz feature for varied sound textures

  • Slightly compressed dry signal retains low end effectively

  • Works well with other pedals for expansive soundscapes

  • Eye-catching, unique color scheme and design aesthetics

  • Sensitivity control offers dynamic interaction with pedal settings

CONS

  • Initial difficulty in taming the sound for some users

  • Controls can be confusing to new users

  • Requires time to tweak for optimal sound setup

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz.

Comparisons

  • Malekko B:assmaster includes a transformer in the fuzz section, uncommon in pedals, creating a distinct sound compared to other fuzz options.

    Source
  • The B:assmaster is a mod of the Maestro Brassmaster circuit, intended to emulate brass instruments but delivers distinctive, cutting fuzz.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The germanium version of the B:assmaster is noted for its lo-fi yet clean fuzz, adding a unique character to the sound.

    Source
  • The B:assmaster offers independent fuzz and clean volumes, allowing for precise blending of original tone with the effect.

    Source
  • The harmonic switches on the B:assmaster allow the fuzz emphasis to be adjusted, tailoring the sound to different tonal territories.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Adding a master volume control is recommended to manage the B:assmaster's gain levels effectively, as the default settings can be overpowering.

    Source

User experience

  • The B:assmaster is described as "the worst sounding pedal in the best possible way," highlighting its unique appeal to some players.

    Source
  • Some basses like Rickenbacker and Jazz pair well with the B:assmaster, while Precision and active basses may not perform optimally.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The B:assmaster's complex component count makes it a challenging DIY project, suitable for experienced builders seeking a unique build.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Germanium version of the B:assmaster is discontinued, leading to higher demand and pricing due to scarcity of parts.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Malekko B:Assmaster Octave Fuzz | Delicious Audio

delicious-audio.com

The Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz is lauded for its classic fuzz tones and modern reliability, making it a solid choice for bassists and guitarists seeking vintage harmonic richness. The hand-built pedal offers extensive tone control, including an expression jack for sensitivity adjustments, adding a modern twist to its vintage inspiration. However, its niche appeal may limit its desirability for those not specifically seeking a Bass Brassmaster clone. Overall, it's a well-crafted pedal that excels in its specialized role but may not suit all fuzz enthusiasts.

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
hakan

wonderful wonderful

Best distortion you can get ... at least best distortion I have ever used :)
Knobs need getting used to. Can be used as a boost.. The tone is amazing just amazing..

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jon Foreman uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Jon Foreman

Singer, Guitarist

Switchfoot

...
Verified via Photo

On his official Instagram account, Jon Foreman is shown using the Malekko Heavy Industry B:ASSMASTER bass effects pedal while working on music related to #FadingWest.

See how Wayne Sermon uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Wayne Sermon

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Imagine Dragons

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo of Wayne Sermon, some of his pedals can be seen. Amongst them is the Malekko B:Assmaster Distortion Pedal.

See how Alain Johannes uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Alain Johannes

Singer, Guitarist

Queens of the Stone Age

...
Verified via Photo

In the background of the image published by Alain you can see the Malekko B:assmaster

See how Debbie Googe uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Debbie Googe

Bassist

My Bloody Valentine

...
Verified via Talkbass

A Malekko B:Assmaster can be seen in this picture of Debbie Googe's My Bloody Valentine pedalboard.

See how Jamie Stewart uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Jamie Stewart

Singer, Guitarist

Xiu Xiu

...
Verified via YouTube

Jamie shows his pedal collection in his Xiu Xiu studio tour for Dear God, I Hate Myself, starting at 7:35 in the video.

See how Scott Shriner uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Scott Shriner

Bassist

Weezer

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, the Malekko B:Assmaster Distortion Pedal is visible.

See how Dave Knudson uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Dave Knudson

Guitarist

Botch

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo posted by Knudson, one of the pedals that can be seen is the Malekko B:Assmaster distortion pedal.

See how Matt McJunkins uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Matt McJunkins

Guitarist, Bassist

A Perfect Circle

...
Verified via YouTube

At 18:32 Matt states that he uses the Bassmaster.

See how Paul Barker uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Paul Barker

Bassist

Puscifer

...
Verified via Photo

The pedals can be seen on his instagram profile.

See how Ben McKee uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Ben McKee

Bassist

Imagine Dragons

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of Ben's pedal board, taken from the article on the Rig Rundown with Imagine Dragons, B:Assmaster sits at the bottom-right corner of the board.

See how James Shaw uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

James Shaw

Guitarist

Metric

...
Verified via Malekko Heavy Industry Corporation

Quoted on the official product page.

“…you’re able to mix in a super fuzzy sound, which is really cool because bass fuzz, as common as it is, is incredibly hard to do well.” -Jimmy Shaw (Metric / Broken Social Scene)

See how Nikki Monninger uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Nikki Monninger

Singer, Bassist

Silversun Pickups

...
Verified via Bassplayer

Pedals: Malekko B:Assmaster, Zvex Woolly Mammoth Bass Fuzz, Boss ODB-3 Overdrive, Electro-Harmonix Bass Micro Synth, Fulltone Bass-Drive Mosfet, EBS Octabass, Aguilar TLC Compressor

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

1 alternative for Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz, curated by the Equipboard community.

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