The ThorpyFX WOPR is a fuzz and boost pedal from the UK maker ThorpyFX: the company describes it as "a massive sounding OP Amp fuzz with a range master boost to add to the massiveness of it"1. The name is a nod to the AI supercomputer in the film Wargames, a connection the maker makes on its own product page and one Delicious Audio's Paolo De Gregorio confirms12.
What it does and where it came from
The WOPR pairs an op amp fuzz stage with a Rangemaster-style treble boost, so the boost can be used to push the fuzz further. ThorpyFX says the circuit is a new design based on the company's Fallout Cloud concept, but with more aggression and more sizzle, and that the combination of fuzz and Rangemaster "leaves a trail of sonic devastation in its wake"1. The maker's own wording is deliberately vicious: more aggression, more sizzle, more everything1.
The pedal's name is a nod to the AI supercomputer in the film Wargames2. ThorpyFX describes the W.O.P.R. as a massive sounding OP Amp fuzz with a Rangemaster boost, and it was listed at £264.99 in the UK1. The fuzz side is a new circuit based on the company's FC (Fallout Cloud) concept, but with more aggression and more sizzle; with the Rangemaster engaged, ThorpyFX says it "leaves a trail of sonic devastation in its wake"1.
"yes, it's named after the AI supercomputer in the film Wargames"
Power and practicalities
The WOPR draws 30mA1, which is modest by fuzz standards but worth noting if you share power between pedals: a standard daisy chain with several digital pedals may not leave enough headroom, so a dedicated or well-rated output is the safer bet. Its footprint of 100mm by 125mm1 is compact enough for a crowded board.
Where it sits in the ThorpyFX range
The WOPR is one of several fuzz-and-boost combinations in the ThorpyFX line. The company's better-known dual-function pedals include the Heavy Water dual boost and Pete Honore's signature The Dane overdrive and boost, and the WOPR's Rangemaster side echoes the germanium Rangemaster approach of the Have Blue. For other fuzz options, see the site's guide to Fuzz Pedals, and for the boost side of the design, Boost Pedals1.
Videos
Fuzzed Drones
Metalhead Productions
Sources (2)
- WOPR | Fuzz and Boost, thorpyfx.com
- ThorpyFX The W.O.P.R. Muff + Treblebooster, Delicious Audio, 2024-08-21
