Fuzzzzzzzzz. One of my favorite effects, by far, and so many different offerings in one category of pedals. The Arbiter Fuzz Face has been a staple sound in rock guitar music since it’s introduction way back in 1966, and the Pollinator from JHS Pedals aims to capture that same sound, but modernize it just a little bit. Simple, 3-knob pedal with loads of tone and a wide range of fuzz make for a perfect afternoon review.
From the initial stomp of the on/off switch, there’s an instant warmth and coziness about the Pollinator, which might sound kind of odd as a description of a fuzz pedal, but it’s true. There’s nothing too harsh or gritty about this fuzz, even when cranked (though it will get awesome buzzsaw tones and driving fuzz for days if you let it loose, trust me). Volume and Fuzz knobs are standard (with the latter actually producing an amazing amount of depth and range), but the Bias knob is a really rad feature of this stompbox. It allows you to dial in the specific amount of power going to the Germanium AC128 transistors found inside the pedal, for the perfect tonal fuzzscape to come pouring out of your amp. Dial back your guitar’s volume for cleaner tones, or crank it for all-out gritty, dirty fuzz that remains full of bass and crisp no matter what the setting.
I was lucky enough to get one of the rare hand-painted versions of this pedal, and that just makes it that much cooler. JHS Pedals have been making great fuzz pedals for years, and the Pollinator is right at the top of the list. Simple, clean, warm, gritty and pronounced, this is a great fuzz for all types of music.
Update 10/14/19: We got our hands on a Pollinator V2 and did a little demo of it for your viewing pleasure. The addition of a Gain control allows you to dial in the pre-gain, interacting with the fuzz for numerous dirt settings. Check it out now!
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