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Description

The Vick Audio Black Russian is a fuzz effects pedal that captures the spirit of classic Russian fuzz tones, while incorporating modern technology for improved performance and versatility. Inspired by the renowned circuits of the 1990s, this pedal delivers a rich and aggressive fuzz, perfect for guitarists seeking that vintage edge with a contemporary twist. Its hand-selected silicon transistors ensure consistent and reliable sound quality, allowing musicians to achieve anything from thick, saturated fuzz to biting, articulate tones.

What sets the Black Russian apart is its ability to maintain clarity even at high gain settings, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead playing. The pedal features simple yet effective controls, allowing users to easily dial in their desired sound. With true bypass switching, it ensures your guitar signal remains unaffected when the pedal is not in use. It's a must-have for anyone looking to expand their tonal palette with a piece of gear that honors the past while embracing the present.

Key Features:

  • Hand-selected silicon transistors for enhanced sound quality
  • True bypass switching to preserve signal integrity
  • Classic Russian fuzz tones with modern improvements
  • Simple, intuitive controls for easy tone shaping
  • Durable construction suitable for gigging musicians

Product specs

Brand Vick Audio
Model Black Russian Fuzz
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Fuzz Pedals and Effects

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz?

The Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz delivers a rich, creamy fuzz sound with plenty of sustain. It's known for its smooth, vintage-style tones that are ideal for classic rock and alternative music genres.

Is the Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz pedal suitable for bass guitar?

Yes, the Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz can be used with a bass guitar, providing a thick, full-bodied fuzz that complements the low-end frequencies well.

Does the Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz work well with other pedals?

The Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz integrates smoothly with other pedals, making it a versatile choice for complex pedalboard setups. It pairs especially well with overdrive and modulation effects.

What kind of power supply does the Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz require?

The Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz requires a standard 9V DC power supply, which is commonly used with most guitar pedals.

How does the Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz compare to the original Russian Big Muff?

The Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz is inspired by the classic Russian Big Muff, offering similar rich and warm fuzz tones, but with modern enhancements for improved reliability and performance.

Vick Audio

Vick Audio

Vick Audio Big Muff Comparison

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Vick Audio Big Muff Comparison

Vick Audio

Vick Audio

Video thumbnail for Vick Audio Black Russian Demo by shnobel

Vick Audio Black Russian Demo

shnobel

shnobel

Video thumbnail for Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz Jazz Bass by shnobel

Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz Jazz Bass

shnobel

shnobel

Video thumbnail for Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz by Pedal of the Day

Vick Audio Black Russian Fuzz

Pedal of the Day

Pedal of the Day

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Vick Audio Black Russian.

Features and functionality

  • The Vick Audio Black Russian excels in low-mid beef when paired with a Vox AC30, especially when favoring the Germanium side of the tone control.

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  • The Hoof is noted for its ability to clean up with the guitar's volume knob, allowing it to function as a sort of overdrive.

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Comparisons

  • The EQD Hoof offers more tonal options with its shift knob, whereas the Vick Audio tends to be slightly cheaper and simpler in configuration.

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  • The RudeTech 3MuF-14 offers a recreation of the Black Russian, Green Russian, and Civil War muffs, with an overdrive feature for boosting mids.

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  • The Angry Black Bear from Chicago Stompworks is based on the V7C Muff, similar to the first version of the Black Russian and the Bubble Font Green Russian.

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  • The EHX Green Russian Reissue has a smoother tone compared to the harsher edge and higher gain of the Black Russian Big Muff.

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Use cases and applications

  • The Hoof, when used with a Vox AC4, delivers a versatile fuzz sound suitable for genres like noise rock, post-rock, and garage rock, favoring low-end control.

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  • The Vick Audio '73 Ram's Head version is praised for its consistently satisfying sound, making it a strong contender for those seeking a classic muff experience.

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Build quality

  • Owners report the original Black Russian pedals have fragile plastic jacks, often needing replacement.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Vick Audio Black Russian review on pedal-of-the-day.com

pedal-of-the-day.com

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Artist usage

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See how J. D. Cronise uses Vick Audio Black Russian

J. D. Cronise

Guitarist

The Sword

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post from July 17, 2017, at Crescent Ballroom in Phoenix, J. D. Cronise showcases his Vick Audio Black Russian pedal. This fuzz pedal is known for its smooth, refined tone and excellent low-end response, making it a staple on Cronise's board for years.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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