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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Malekko Barker Assmaster Germanium Fuzz Pedal

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Video thumbnail for Malekko Barker Assmaster Fuzz Pedal by ProGuitarShopDemos

Malekko Barker Assmaster Fuzz Pedal

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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 Me’Shell Ndegéocello uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Me’Shell Ndegéocello

Singer, Bassist

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

Me’Shell Ndegéocello uses the Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz, as confirmed by Premier Guitar.

See how Graham Lewis uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Graham Lewis

Singer, Bassist

Wire

...
Verified via Photo

In this image from a 2013 live performance by Wire, Lewis's pedalboard is shown with a B:Assmaster on it.

See how Emma Richardson uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Emma Richardson

Singer, Bassist

Pixies

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:15 mark, Richardson's pedalboard can be seen, with one pedal being the Malekko B:Assmaster.

See how Justin Harris uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Justin Harris

Bassist

Bloc Party

...
Verified via Premierguitar

Justin Harris is a man of many fuzzes. Among the favorites on his board are a Darkglass Super Symmetry, Team Awesome Fuzz Machine, and Malekko B:ASSMASTER. All of his pedals are routed through a Voodoo Lab PX8 and a Voodoo Lab Pedal Commander.

See how Surachai uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Surachai

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen in the top right corner throughout the video

See how STS9 uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

STS9

STS9

...
Verified via YouTube

at 2:42 you can see Hunter's pedalboard with the B:Assmaster.

See how Enrique "Quique" Rangel Arroyo uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Enrique "Quique" Rangel Arroyo

Bassist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

This pedal can be seen as part of the peadlboard used by Quique in the official video of the song "De este lado del camino" at min 05:18.

See how Lucas Furtado uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Lucas Furtado

Bassist

...
Verified via Instagram

Lucas Furtado is shown using the Malekko Heavy Industry B:ASSMASTER bass effects pedal in an Instagram post promoting a live performance in Brasília. The post highlights his setup for achieving a distinctive distortion sound.

See how Ashley Dzerigian uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Ashley Dzerigian

Bassist

Great Northern

...
Verified via Photo

"My homie @jayterrien loaned me these sweet @malekkoheavyindustry pedals... The B: Assmaster is blowing my mind.... #effectspedals #fenderbass #brownnote"

See how Doni Blair uses Malekko Heavy Industry B:assmaster Octave Fuzz

Doni Blair

Bassist

Toadies

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video you can see doni going through his rig and he talks about using this pedal as his distortion

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

Matt Gorney

Bassist

The Aquabats

...
Verified via Photo

Matt used this distortion pedal

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

Nikki Pickle

Singer, Bassist

Frankie and The Witch Fingers

...
Verified via Photo

Visible in this photo from Frankie and the Witch Fingers’ May 19, 2024 gig at The Flying Duck, which Pickle posted to Instagram on June 24, 2024. She had previously mentioned the B:ASSMASTER in this September 8, 2023 Reddit AMA reply:

B:ASSMASTER and the Rusty Box are my essential pedals - Pickle

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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