Pricing and availability

Average Price: $200

High-end/Boutique

$60

$181+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

Unleash your inner '90s rock star with the Keeley Rotten Apple, a fuzz pedal that channels the spirit of alternative rock's golden era. Crafted meticulously, this pedal is a nod to the iconic fuzz tones of a legendary Chicago band, delivering that creamy fuzz and violin-like sustain that defined a generation. Whether you're diving into alt-rock, stoner rock, or shoegaze, the Rotten Apple promises a sound that's both comfortably nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

The op-amp circuitry is at the heart of this pedal, offering a smoother, more saturated fuzz that excels in both quiet and aggressive settings. Its 3-way Tone toggle provides versatile midrange shaping, allowing you to fine-tune your sound to perfection. Handmade with precision in Oklahoma, USA, the Rotten Apple stands out not just for its sound, but also for its commitment to quality craftsmanship. From subtle chord work to powerful solos, this pedal is designed to enhance every nuance of your performance.

Key Features:

  • Tribute to alt-rock's iconic fuzz tones
  • Smooth, saturated op-amp fuzz
  • 3-way Tone toggle for midrange shaping
  • Dynamically sensitive with infinite, violin-like sustain
  • Handmade in Edmond, Oklahoma, USA

Product specs

Brand Keeley
Model Rotten Apple OpAmp Fuzz
Finish White/Black
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Fuzz Pedals and Effects

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Keeley Rotten Apple fuzz pedal?

The Keeley Rotten Apple delivers a thick, saturated fuzz tone reminiscent of classic op-amp fuzz pedals, ideal for heavy rock and alternative music styles.

Is the Keeley Rotten Apple suitable for both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Keeley Rotten Apple is designed to work well with both guitar and bass, providing a powerful fuzz effect that complements each instrument's tonal range.

Does the Keeley Rotten Apple fuzz pedal have true bypass switching?

Yes, the Keeley Rotten Apple features true bypass switching, ensuring your signal remains unaffected when the pedal is not engaged.

What power supply does the Keeley Rotten Apple require?

The Keeley Rotten Apple requires a standard 9V DC power supply, consuming approximately 20mA of current.

How does the Keeley Rotten Apple compare to other Keeley fuzz pedals?

The Keeley Rotten Apple stands out with its op-amp based fuzz circuit, offering a unique tonal character distinct from other fuzz pedals in the Keeley lineup.

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Keeley Rotten Apple Op-Amp Fuzz

Video thumbnail for Keeley Rotten Apple Op-Amp Fuzz by ProGuitarShopDemos

Keeley Rotten Apple Op-Amp Fuzz

ProGuitarShopDemos

ProGuitarShopDemos

Video thumbnail for 4 Op-Amp Big Muff Pedals (EHX, Wren and Cuff, Greer, Keeley) by The Pedal Bored

4 Op-Amp Big Muff Pedals (EHX, Wren and Cuff, Greer, Keeley)

The Pedal Bored

The Pedal Bored

Video thumbnail for Keeley Electronics - Rotten Apple Fuzz - Tech Demo by Keeley Electronics

Keeley Electronics - Rotten Apple Fuzz - Tech Demo

Keeley Electronics

Keeley Electronics

Video thumbnail for Keeley Electronics - Rotten Apple Fuzz by Keeley Electronics

Keeley Electronics - Rotten Apple Fuzz

Keeley Electronics

Keeley Electronics

Video thumbnail for Guitar Fuzz Pedal Shootout with Wampler, Robert Keeley and LunaStone | Guitar Tricks by Guitar Tricks

Guitar Fuzz Pedal Shootout with Wampler, Robert Keeley and LunaStone | Guitar Tricks

Guitar Tricks

Guitar Tricks

Video thumbnail for Keeley Electronics "Rotten Apple" Fuzz Pedal demo by D.O'B. Sound Pro

Keeley Electronics "Rotten Apple" Fuzz Pedal demo

D.O'B. Sound Pro

D.O'B. Sound Pro

Reviews

PROS

  • Approaches the "Mellon Collie" sound smoothly, offering refined and versatile tones

  • Ability to control mids for polished sound customization

  • Features rare NOS components enhancing sound quality

  • High fidelity with low noise, even at high gain settings

  • Provides a wide range of sounds from clean sparkle to doom and grunge

  • More versatile and aggressive than Big Muff, suitable for various rock genres

  • Offers tons of sustain for fat chords and great leads

  • Three-way EQ switch allows for extensive tone shaping

  • Less noisy than OpAmp Muff reissue, with smoother operation

  • Unique 90’s graphics add to its appeal

CONS

  • Hard to find, especially unscathed ones, making it potentially expensive

  • Specific niche appeal may not cater to all guitarists' needs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Keeley Rotten Apple.

Comparisons

  • The Keeley Rotten Apple is noted for having less bass response compared to the Big Muff, but some users haven't experienced low-end issues in their setups.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The EQ taper switch on the Rotten Apple offers significant versatility, allowing tones that differ from the EHX opamp Muff.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Keeley Rotten Apple is perceived as less available compared to the widely accessible reissue opamp Muff, making it a more exclusive choice for collectors.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Keeley channels Smashing Pumpkins for Rotten Apple OpAmp Fuzz pedal | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Keeley Rotten Apple OpAmp Fuzz pedal delivers a stellar tribute to Billy Corgan's iconic Big Muff tones, capturing the spirit with a wide gain range, impressive touch sensitivity, and rich bass response. Its versatile EQ settings—offering full, scoop, and flat options—allow for tailored sound sculpting, making it a hit for those chasing that classic Corgan fuzz. However, the review lacks critical insights into any potential downsides or limitations of the pedal, leaving buyers with an overwhelmingly positive view that may not account for all user experiences. Overall, it's a compelling choice for fans of Smashing Pumpkins and fuzz enthusiasts alike.

positive

Keeley Electronics' Rotten Apple Fuzz and a Siamese Dream - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

Keeley Electronics' Rotten Apple Fuzz pedal is a nostalgia-packed homage to the '90s Smashing Pumpkins sound, channeling Billy Corgan's iconic fuzz tones. Its simplicity, with three basic controls and a mini-toggle switch, delivers a focused tonal palette ideal for fans of that era. However, its appeal is somewhat niche, primarily catering to Smashing Pumpkins enthusiasts, as it lacks the versatility found in other fuzz pedals. While it excels at delivering thick, aggressive fuzz, its tonal limitations may not satisfy players seeking broader soundscapes.

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tyler Larson uses Keeley Rotten Apple

Tyler Larson

Guitarist, Podcasters & Streamers

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible on Larson's pedal shelf starting at 0:39.

See how Harvey Mandel uses Keeley Rotten Apple

Harvey Mandel

Guitarist

The Rolling Stones

...
Verified via Robert Keeley

Listed on Harvey's official Keeley artist page.

See how Austin Peters uses Keeley Rotten Apple

Austin Peters

Guitarist, Composer

Outrun the Sunlight

...
Verified via Photo

Live rig from Wicker Park Fest, Chicago, October 2018.

See how Hannah Wicklund uses Keeley Rotten Apple

Hannah Wicklund

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

In this March 30, 2022 Premier Guitar Rig Rundown, she discusses using the Keeley Rotten Apple 13:15.

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 Keeley Rotten Apple, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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