EarthQuaker Devices has introduced a new pedal aimed at replicating the distinctive fuzzed-out bass guitar tones of LCD Soundsystem. In a collaboration with James Murphy, the pedal is based on his vintage fuzz unit, which has been a key part of the band’s sound for years. Known as the Chelsea Low End Fuzz Driver, the pedal takes inspiration from the one Murphy purchased in 1989 at a guitar store in Chelsea.
The original pedal, which Murphy has kept for its unique sound despite its worn-out condition, was considered a “one-of-a-kind” stompbox that should have been replaced long ago but remained in use due to its incredible tone. EarthQuaker Devices founder Jamie Stillman explained the importance of the original Chelsea pedal in the design notes for the new model, emphasizing its legendary status in LCD Soundsystem’s recordings.
Stillman wrote, “I’m going to guess that you have heard this pedal. It has been the chosen bass fuzz for several LCD recordings and has traveled around the world with them. I’d say that it is a prized possession, a real one-of-a-kind pedal. It has been beat up and taped back together. It looks like it shouldn’t work, but it always delivers. It is old, it is fragile, and it sounds massive. Too good to retire yet too tired to keep going.”
The Chelsea Low End Fuzz Driver aims to preserve the magic of the original pedal while offering durability and modern design. Unlike vintage fuzz pedals, which can be prone to wear and failure, this new version is built to last and remains reliable for performance and recording. As with all EarthQuaker Devices pedals, the Chelsea pedal is handmade in Akron, Ohio, and comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
The Chelsea pedal features a top-mounted connection design for ease of use on a pedalboard. It is powered by a 9V DC power supply and draws just 10mA of current. With only three knobs and a Tone switch, it offers a simple, user-friendly interface. The three knobs control the Level (output volume), Sustain (amount of distortion and sustain), and Tone (frequency response). The Tone switch allows users to bypass the Tone control, applying a mids-focused voicing instead.
Although designed with fuzz bass lines in mind, EarthQuaker Devices promises that the Chelsea Low End Fuzz Driver is a versatile pedal capable of delivering a light drive, full distortion, and a wide range of frequencies.
Priced at £189/$179, the Chelsea Low End Fuzz Driver is available now.
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