This used Spaceman Effects - Sputnik Fuzz #31 is an all germanium fuzz rarity featuring vintage Soviet transistors. With three main controls (translated here in English) that give an extremely wide range of tones in a compact unit with a Sov-spec feel that will make you question if this didn't come straight from the USSR. The "Range" is primarily the fuzz-gain control, giving the player everything from amp boosting overdrive to sustain-laden fuzz. The "Calibrate" control is primarily a tone control, but through interacting with the Range, you can manufacture some head-turning tones. Two toggle switches labeled Sync/Drift and Filter enable alternative tone-circuit variations. Sync is the more understandable side of fuzz tones, while Drift will send you sliding off orbit. Synth tones, wine-y squeals, and clipping artifacts are all abound here. Pick touch and pitch register become much more interactive and responsive in this mode. From its versatility with straight-ahead tones to gravity defying experimentalism, the sonic cosmonaut has a lot of exploring to do with this rare device no longer in production.
