MXR CSP203 La Machine

$199.00 Price Tier: High-end

4.5 (4)

2 Critic Reviews

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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2 community setups

6 wishlisted

21 saved

Page last updated Jun 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 3, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (6)

$199.00 1 available New

$115.00 10 available Used

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Average Price: $237

High-end/Boutique

$60

$181+

Price Tier

In the Fuzz Effects Pedals category, MXR CSP203 La Machine is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Experience the vintage fuzz tones of yesteryear with a modern twist with the MXR CSP203 La Machine. This pedal is a powerful beast, armed with an octave up switch and controls for output, tone, and distortion. It's not just about the sound though, the La Machine sports a dazzling purple sparkle finish that is sure to steal the spotlight on any pedalboard. Crafted with the same circuitry design as the classic fuzz pedals but enhanced with today's technology, it's the perfect tool whether you're into garage rock, psychedelia, or stoner metal.

Key Features:

Octave up switch for added versatility
Controls for output, tone, and distortion to shape your sound
Vintage circuitry design for authentic fuzz tones
Modern appointments for improved reliability and performance
Eye-catching purple sparkle finish

Product specs

Brand	MXR
Model	CSP203 LA Machine
Finish	Purple
Year	2010s
Made In	United States
Categories	Distortion Pedals, Fuzz Pedals and Effects
Pedal Format	Standard

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the MXR CSP203 La Machine fuzz pedal?: The MXR CSP203 La Machine delivers a classic, aggressive fuzz tone with a vintage character, ideal for rock and psychedelic music. It also features an octave switch for adding an upper octave to your sound, enhancing its versatility.
Does the MXR CSP203 La Machine work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?: Yes, the MXR CSP203 La Machine is designed to perform well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, providing a rich and full fuzz tone regardless of your guitar's configuration.
What power supply does the MXR CSP203 La Machine require?: The MXR CSP203 La Machine fuzz pedal requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is common for many guitar pedals. It can also run on a 9V battery for added convenience.
Can the MXR CSP203 La Machine be used in a pedalboard setup?: Absolutely, the MXR CSP203 La Machine is designed to fit seamlessly into any pedalboard setup, thanks to its standard pedal format and durable construction.
How does the octave switch function on the MXR CSP203 La Machine?: The octave switch on the MXR CSP203 La Machine allows you to add an upper octave to the fuzz effect, creating a more complex and layered sound, perfect for solos and lead parts.

Videos

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ProGuitarShopDemos

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MXR Custom Shop la machine demo

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MXR Custom Shop La Machine Fuzz Pedal Demo

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Reviews

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PROS

Vintage, warm fuzz tone reminiscent of the 1970s Foxx Tone Machine
Compact, pedalboard-friendly enclosure
Offers strong octave effect with adjustable tone control
Features level, tone, and distortion controls for versatile sound shaping
Brighter, full-bodied fuzz tone even with less low end
Octave tracks well, enhancing musical expressiveness
Affordable option with great sound quality
Can be modded for added functionality, like an octave level control

CONS

Octave not footswitchable, limiting on-the-fly adjustments
Lacks a level or blend control for the octave effect
Distortion range could be more gradual for nuanced sound shaping
Possible tracking issues with rapid note changes
Octave effect may work best at lower guitar volumes, affecting unity gain

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MXR CSP203 La Machine.

Comparisons

0 0

The MXR La Machine is inspired by the Foxx Tone Machine, with users mentioning alternatives like the Orange Fur Coat for its octave features.
Source
0 0

Danelectro French Toast is noted as a cost-effective Foxx Tone Machine alternative, despite its plastic casing, offering commendable durability and sound.
Source

User experience

0 0

Some owners find the La Machine excessively loud and brash, indicating it may not suit all musical styles or preferences.
Source

Critic Reviews

MXR Custom Shop La Machine Review - Premier Guitar

premierguitar.com

The MXR CSP203 La Machine is a mean and massive octave fuzz pedal that blends the classic fuzz tones with modern usability. While its roots trace back to the Foxx Tone Machine, it offers a smoother, more forgiving fuzz experience suitable for both neophytes and seasoned players. Its compact size makes it a practical addition to pedalboards, despite the small octave bypass button. With its versatile, Big Muff-like fuzz and adaptive octave effect, the La Machine excels in delivering a wide range of tones, from '70s fuzz to stoner rock heaviness. Overall, it's a great buy for fuzz enthusiasts seeking a more controlled octave experience at a reasonable price.

positive

Full Review

MXR CSP203 La Machine review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The MXR CSP203 La Machine is a dynamic octave fuzz pedal that excites with its crazy, textured fuzz tones and durable build. It's a creative tool for those seeking unique sounds, reminiscent of classic 70s fuzz. While the octave fuzz delightfully recalls iconic solos, the fuzz-only mode might struggle in a live setting. Overall, it's a great buy for those exploring beyond conventional pedalboards.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

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1 star

h_pr

1359

over 6 years ago

Good fOXX Tone Machine Variant

MXR's take on the famous fOXX Tone Machine octave fuzz sounds a bit brighter than the original, but comes in a much more pedalboard-friendly enclosure. While it doesn't have quite the same amount of low end, the fuzz tone is still full-bodied in a classic Tone Machine kind of way, and the octave can be piercing and tracks well. Now that MXR have replaced it with the larger and more expensive Sub Machine, this is an excellent pedal to look out for on the used market.

Roles:

Guitarist Composer

Genres:

Dark ambient Electroacoustic music Musical improvisation

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