September 21, 2008

Guyatone TZ-2 “The Fuzz” Review

Stashed under: Reviews, Reviews - Fuzz — grygrx @ 9:57 am

  1. Overview
  2. Initial thoughts
  3. Video Overview
  4. Samples
  5. Picture Gallery
  6. Construction and cosmetic concerns
  7. Conclusion
  8. View All


TZ2 Dark Front Angle

Manufacturer: Guyatone
Model: TZ-2 The Fuzz
MSRP/Paid: $70/$45
New/Used/Loan: Used
Battery: Yes
Power Supply: 9v boss style
Size: Aprox. Aprox. 2.75″ Wide x 3.875″ Tall x 2.0″ Deep (jacks/knobs etc included)
Available from:Dealers Everywhere

From the maker:

Description:
We all know there are plenty of digital multi-effect units out there, but how about an analog one that’s so small it can fit in your shirt pocket? The TZ-2 Fuzz may appear simple at first glance, but once you plug it in you’ll discover it’s multiple uses.

A retro-style fuzz effect based on the vintage Univox Superfuzz, the concept behind the TZ-2 was to create distortion using methods other than waveform clipping. Unlike standard distortion and fuzz pedals, the TZ-2 produces a sawtooth waveform that yields a much ruder and cruder tone with a whopping low-end that makes it perfect for use with Bass as well as Guitar.

So where do we get off calling the TZ-2 a multi-effect? Well, its circuit contains a diode ring. Diode rings are used to add upper octave tones to an input signal (think Dan Armstrong Green Ringer or Tychobrahe Octavia). The TZ-2’s upper octave tracks particularly well and is smoother and more subtle than most “boutique” octavia clones currently on the market. It even tracks well on Bass, creating a very unique, synth-like tone on upper register notes. In addition, playing double stops or chords through the TZ-2 will produce atonal, clangorous tones similar to a ring modulator, making it great for special effects and more unconventional applications.

The TZ-2 Fuzz: Distortion, Octavia, and Ring Modulator - Three great analog effects in one pint-sized powerhouse!

Tech Specs

TZ-2 THE FUZZ
Input Impedance: 470K ohm
Input Jack: 1/4 Inch standard phone jack
Output Impedance: 1k Ohm
Output Jack: 1/4 Inch standard phone jack
Output: 1
Controls: VOLUME, DEPTH
Switch: NORMAL/EFFECT
Max Amplitude: +30dB
Power Supply: 9V Manganese dry cell battery or special AC Adaptor
Power Voltage: DC9V (Battery) / DC9 V (AC Adaptor)
Current Consumption: 6 mA
AC Adaptor: Guyatone AC2 (optional) Input: AC120V Output: DC9V/200 mA (Center -/Sleeve +)
Dimensions: 2.75″ W x 3.875″ L x 1.5″ H
Weight (w/o battery): 8.0 oz
Accessories: 9V Manganese dry cell battery, User’s Manual, Warranty Card

1 Comment »

  1. Very nice detailed review.

    Comment by KrAzE — September 26, 2008 @ 5:33 pm

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