Fuzz is a type of distortion that produces an aggressive, saturated sound by heavily clipping an audio signal, often turning it into a square-like waveform. Fuzz pedals and modules are common in guitar, bass, and synthesizer setups for gritty, harmonically rich tones.
- Clipping: Created by extreme wave shaping, often with transistors or diodes that hard clip the signal, giving a dense, compressed sound.
- Harmonic content: Adds a large amount of harmonics, which makes sounds thick, raw, and cutting.
Common uses include:
- Adding heavy distortion to synth leads or basslines for a vintage, rock-inspired tone.
- Creating massive, textured drones or walls of sound.
- Adding grit and character to drum signals.
Fuzz is popular for experimental sound design and high-energy music.