Tone Bender MKI

The British Pedal Company Compact Series MKI Tone Bender is a germanium fuzz pedal based on the original 1965 Tone Bender circuit developed by Gary Hurst. Handmade in the UK, it recreates the distinctive sound of early British fuzz in a smaller, pedalboard-friendly enclosure. The circuit uses PNP germanium transistors, including OC75 and 2G381 types, which contribute to its characteristic response. OC75 transistors provide a bright, aggressive, high-gain character, while the 2G381 contributes to the distinctive sag and compression heard during sustained notes and string bends. Two controls provide straightforward adjustment: Level sets the output volume, while Attack determines the intensity of the fuzz. The pedal features a negative 9V DC power input. The original MKI Tone Bender is associated with guitarists including Jeff Beck and Mick Ronson.