Dunlop Jimi Hendrix Fuzz Face Mini FFM3 review

Big fuzz, mini footprint for this Hendrix-approved fuzz

  • £99
  • €129
  • $120
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MusicRadar Verdict

The most versatile, mix-friendly of the Fuzz Face Minis.

Pros

  • +

    Hearty mid frequencies prevent tones being lost in a mix.

  • +

    Octave overtones.

  • +

    Classic Jimi sounds.

Cons

  • -

    Not as high-gain as some other Fuzz Faces.

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The Fuzz Face is one of the most iconic pedals of all time, and its enclosure - inspired by the base of a mic stand - has hardly changed since its introduction in 1966. But wouldn’t it be great if you could actually fit one on your pedalboard?

Fortunately, 2013 is the year the gnarly, nasty fuzz gets cute, with the introduction of three Fuzz Face Mini fuzz pedals: the FFM1 Silicon, FFM2 Germanium and FFM3 Jimi Hendrix.

What these three have in common are modern-day appointments such as AC power jacks, bright blue status LEDs, easy-access battery doors and true bypass switching. And while the enclosures may be small, they’re just as sturdy as ever.

Circuit-wise, the FFM3 Jimi Hendrix features the same circuit as the full-sized JHF1, which features matched BC108 silicon transistors, designed to cover a range of Jimi fuzz tones, and uses a modern, compact printed circuit board approach for its construction.

The most noticeable sonic trait of the FFM3 Jimi Hendrix is a stern kick in the midrange. Not only does this provide better note clarity than its rival Fuzz Faces, but it also makes the FFM3 a fine choice for boosting an overdriven amp, not to mention slicing through a mix. You can unearth some tasty octave overtones with a neck pickup, too.

Michael Brown
Michael Brown

Mike is Editor-in-Chief of GuitarWorld.com, in addition to being an offset fiend and recovering pedal addict. He has a master's degree in journalism, and has spent the past decade writing and editing for guitar publications including MusicRadar, Total Guitar and Guitarist, as well as a decade-and-a-half performing in bands of variable genre (and quality). In his free time, you'll find him making progressive instrumental rock under the nom de plume Maebe.