The EarthQuaker Devices Chelsea Low End Fuzz Driver is a faithful recreation of a legendary fuzz pedal that has graced countless recordings and stages. Originally owned and modified by James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem, this iconic fuzz delivers a wide range of tones, from warm overdrive to massive distortion, all with exceptional clarity and touch sensitivity. The Chelsea is a versatile and inspiring pedal that will breathe new life into your bass, guitar, or keyboard rig.
A Fuzz with a Story
The Chelsea's story begins in 1989 when James Murphy purchased a fuzz pedal from a guitar shop in New York City. Over the years, this pedal underwent various modifications and repairs, evolving into a unique and powerful fuzz that became a cornerstone of Murphy's sound with LCD Soundsystem. Its warm, full-bodied distortion and exceptional clarity can be heard on numerous LCD recordings and live performances.
Faithful Recreation, Modern Reliability
Recognizing the magic of this unique fuzz, EarthQuaker Devices set out to recreate its sound in a reliable and pedalboard-friendly format. The Chelsea captures all the nuances and idiosyncrasies of the original pedal, delivering the same warm, full-bodied distortion, exceptional clarity, and touch sensitivity that made the original so special. With its robust construction and modern components, the Chelsea ensures that this legendary fuzz can be enjoyed for years to come.
Versatile Controls
The Chelsea features three simple controls—Sustain, Tone, and Level—that offer a wide range of tonal possibilities. The Sustain knob controls the amount of fuzz, taking you from light overdrive to massive distortion. The Tone knob shapes the overall frequency response, allowing you to dial in everything from aggressive top-end bite to warm, low-end rumble. The Level knob adjusts the output volume. Additionally, the Tone On/Off switch removes the tone control from the circuit, providing a simplified and straightforward fuzz sound with a pronounced midrange grind.
A Fuzz for Any Instrument
While the original fuzz was primarily used on bass, the Chelsea's versatility makes it an excellent choice for a variety of instruments. Guitarists will appreciate its warm, full-bodied distortion and exceptional clarity, while bassists will love its ability to deliver massive low-end rumble without sacrificing definition. Keyboardists can also use the Chelsea to add grit and character to their sound. This pedal is a true sonic chameleon that can adapt to any musical style.
Handmade in Akron, Ohio
Each Chelsea pedal is handmade with care at EarthQuaker Devices headquarters in Akron, Ohio. The company's commitment to quality and craftsmanship ensures that every pedal meets their high standards. With its robust construction, versatile tones, and inspiring sound, the Chelsea is a fuzz pedal that will elevate your playing and unlock new creative possibilities.