The Amptweaker DeFizzerator is a passive EQ pedal aimed at a specific problem: the fizzy, buzzy high-frequency content, sometimes described as a mosquito tone, that comes off a cranked guitar amp. Rather than a general tone control, it targets three frequencies higher than most tone or high EQs reach, which Amptweaker labels fizz, buzz and crackle1.
Because the circuit is passive, the pedal needs no battery and no power supply. It launched at $60 and was reported as available at the end of 20161.
What it does
The DeFizzerator works as a set-and-forget filter for the top end. MusicRadar described it as "a passive EQ with three frequencies - fizz, buzz and crackle - that are higher than most tone or high EQs", meaning it reaches into the range where harsh amp fizz lives rather than the usual treble territory1.
A single Zap control adjusts the amount of fizz cut. MusicRadar noted this is "handy for getting cranked-amp tones at bedroom levels", since taming the fizz lets you run a driven amp or drive pedal quietly without the harsh edge that usually comes with it1.
Power and practicality
The passive design is the practical headline: no batteries, no power supply, no current draw on your isolated supply. It simply sits in the signal chain and filters1.
Where it sits among Amptweaker's EQs
The DeFizzerator is the narrow, specialised tool in Amptweaker's EQ range. Where a conventional EQ shapes the whole tonal balance, the DeFizzerator does one job: cutting fizz. Amptweaker describes it as "this simple one-knob solution from Amptweaker: the DeFizzerator", with a Zap control that "adjusts the amount of fizz cut, which is handy for getting crunched-amp tones at bedroom levels"1. It is also the simplest to run: "since the pedal's passive, it doesn't require batteries or power"1.
For a wider look at the category, see Equalization Pedals.
Videos
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Questions
Does the Amptweaker DeFizzerator need power?
No. The DeFizzerator is a passive EQ pedal, so it does not require batteries or a power supply. That makes it a simple addition to any pedalboard, since it draws nothing from your power supply and cannot be knocked out by a dead battery.
What does the Zap control do on the DeFizzerator?
The Zap control adjusts the amount of fizz cut. MusicRadar noted it is handy for getting cranked-amp tones at bedroom levels, since you can dial back the harsh high-frequency content of a driven amp without changing the drive itself.
Sources (1)
- Zap your guitar amp's mosquito tone with Amptweaker's DeFizzerator pedal, MusicRadar, 2016-12-19
