Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $50
Budget/Beginner
$60
$151+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Unleash the raw energy of your guitar with the Walrus Audio Contraband, a no-nonsense fuzz pedal designed for musicians who crave simplicity with a punch. This compact powerhouse delivers a range of gritty tones, from subtle breakups to full-on fuzz mayhem, with minimal fuss. The unique Thick/Thin switch tailors your sound to fit any setup, ensuring that your instrument cuts through with its true voice, be it bass, synth, or guitar. Perfect for crafting your signature sound or experimenting with new sonic territories, the Contraband makes a bold statement on any pedalboard.
Key Features:
- Single knob control for easy adjustment of fuzz intensity
- Built-in gate for achieving that sought-after dying battery sound
- Thick/Thin switch to accommodate different instruments and tonal preferences
- Compact design, fitting seamlessly into crowded pedalboards
- Ideal for guitarists, bassists, and synth players alike
Product specs
| Brand | Walrus Audio |
| Model | Contraband Fuzz, Contraband Fuzz Limited Edition - 1116, Contraband Fuzz Limited Edition - Callisto Series |
| Finish | Callisto, Gold Sparkle / Red, Pearl / Gold |
| Year | 2016 - 2017 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Fuzz Pedals and Effects |
| Pedal Format | Standard |
FAQs
-
What type of fuzz tones can I expect from the Walrus Audio Contraband pedal?
-
The Walrus Audio Contraband delivers a gritty, aggressive fuzz tone with a focus on midrange frequencies, making it ideal for cutting through a mix in live performances or recordings.
-
Does the Walrus Audio Contraband work well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups?
-
Yes, the Contraband fuzz pedal is designed to perform well with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, providing a versatile fuzz sound suitable for various guitar types.
-
What power supply is required for the Walrus Audio Contraband fuzz pedal?
-
The Walrus Audio Contraband requires a standard 9V DC power supply, drawing 10mA of current. It does not support battery operation.
-
Is the Walrus Audio Contraband suitable for bass guitar?
-
While primarily designed for electric guitar, the Contraband can also be used with bass guitars, offering a thick, textured fuzz that enhances low-end frequencies.
-
How does the Walrus Audio Contraband differ from other fuzz pedals?
-
The Contraband stands out with its single-knob design for simplicity and its unique voicing switch that allows users to toggle between two distinct fuzz tones, providing versatility in a compact format.
Videos
Reverb
Walrus Audio Contraband Fuzz | Reverb Demo Video
Reviews
PROS
-
Smaller dimensions make it a compact choice
-
Versatile single knob operation caters to various bass types
-
Thick-Thin switch effectively modifies tone
-
Unique dying battery sounds achievable through volume manipulation
-
Surprisingly well-voiced without needing tone or volume control
-
Gating function allows for creative sputtery effects
-
Works well with different guitar pickups and settings
-
Complements other pedals, especially for creating swells with reverb
-
Affordably priced for its features
CONS
-
Can be volume sensitive, causing issues with certain amp settings
-
May act unfavorably with the wrong settings, mimicking poor overdrive
-
Limited controls might feel restrictive for some users
-
Tone can feel locked in place, offering less flexibility
-
Some may find it gimmicky or buy it mainly for the branding
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Walrus Audio Contraband.
Features and functionality
Use cases and applications
-
Ideal for achieving vintage garage rock tones, especially effective for staccato riffs in the style of Queens of the Stone Age or Jack White.
Source -
The pedal is praised for its smooth tone and the right amount of dirt, making it a suitable addition for those who prefer minimalistic controls.
Source
User experience
-
Works best on thick mode with Telecasters to manage high frequencies, and on thin mode with Les Pauls to prevent muddiness in the low end.
Source -
P90 pickups shine through this pedal, offering a chunky rhythm sound in thick mode and sharp leads in thin mode.
Source -
Turning down the guitar volume can introduce a desirable dying battery effect, adding unique character to the sound.
Source -
After owning only a Big Muff and octave fuzz, one user found the Contraband to be a perfect addition due to its smooth sound and pleasurable playability.
Source
3.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
You can check in this tweet a photograph of a Walrus Audio Contraband in Albert's gear,
In this photo, which comes from Cory Wong's Instagram story, his session pedalboard is visible. One of the pedals that can be seen is the Walrus Contraband.
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 Walrus Audio Contraband, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Walrus Audio Boost Effects Pedals
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Boost Effects Pedals
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
paolovallinariGear IQ 1144
-