Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face
Pete Townshend used a Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face fuzz pedal on stage for a brief period in 1968. The only photos showing its use are from August 1968.
The Fuzz Face featured a “smiley” face round configuration of its two controls (volume and fuzz) and footswitch, housed in a red housing. The Fuzz Face was used by many, including Eric Clapton, but was made famous by Jimi Hendrix. This could explain why Pete went to that pedal first after using the Marshall Supa Fuzz in 1967–68. (Pete had advised Hendrix about Marshall and Sound City amplifiers.)
As noted, Pete had previously used a Marshall Supa Fuzz in 1967–68, and following his brief use of the Fuzz Face, would go on to use the Univox Super Fuzz, starting December 1968.
Photo Gallery
Ca. August 1968, Fillmore West, San Francisco, with Dallas-Arbiter Fuzz Face. Amps are with three customized Sound City L100 amplifiers. Guitar is 1968 Gibson SG Special.
Ca. August 1968, Singer Bowl, New York, with Dallas-Arbiter Fuzz Face. Amps aretwo customized Sound City L100 amplifiers, with four Sound City 200w 4x12s with herringbone grillecloth. Guitar is Fender Stratocaster.
August 1968, at the Singer Bowl, New York, with Fuzz Face visible behind Pete’s foot.
Ca. August 1968, Fillmore West, San Francisco, with Dallas-Arbiter Fuzz Face. Guitar is 1968 Gibson SG Special.
Resources and Information
Manufacturer (reissue)
Information
- Fuzz Face history and schematics: geofex.com/Article_Folders/fuzzface/fffram.htm
- Fuzz Face schematics: schematicheaven.com/effects.htm