Electric Guitar Trends

What makes an electric guitar pedal collectible? Some guitar pedals are desireable because of a popular song that used that pedal, or the recording artist who used it.

In general, a good pedal should “cut through” when used in a live setting, and many of the best pedals have a transparent sound quality that does not sound overprocessed.

Here is a list of a few vintage guitar pedals and their current values. Prices are based upon pedals in *excellent* condition.

E-H Big Muff PI

The Big Muff PI was the first pedal designed and manufactured by Electro-Harmonix.  Introduced in the early 1970’s, this popular fuzz pedal has been through several incarnations and is still in production today.

1970’s - $350-$425  Black case graphics, with triangle knob pattern

1970’s - $225-$425  Red/black graphics, 1/2″ letters

1980’s - $150-$250  Logo in 1″ letters

Ibanez Tube Screamer TS808

The 1979 Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer is a little smoother and less harsh than the later models. However, there are some differences between early models. Some have the Japanese JRC4558D op-amp chip (black serial number sticker) while some have a Malaysian manufactured Texas Instruments (4558) chip

1980-82 - $500-$750  - Uses 2 AA batteries

Maestro Fuzz Tone FZ-1

While the Maestro FZ-1 Fuzz Tone made its American debut in 1962, sales through 1964 were very slow. That all changed in 1965 with the release of the Rolling Stones hit “Satisfaction”.

1962-62 - $250-$325

Marshall Supa Fuzz

Sola Sound built MK II Tone Benders for Marshall (Supa Fuzz) and Vox (Tone Bender) among others.

1967 - $300-$400   Made by Sola Sound (aka Colorsound)

 MXR Phase 90

The Phase 90 was perhaps made most famous by Eddie Van Halen, who has used it throughout hs recording career.  Easy to use with long battery life, the Phase 90 cuts through the mix in live situations.

1970’s - $325-$400  Script logo.

1970’s - $175-$275  Block logo.

1980’s - $150-$200  Block logo.

ProCo Rat

This classic distortion pedal produces a fuzzy overdrive.  The later production Rat 2 has been in production for several years and ProCo has recently resissued the big box Rat pedal.

1979-84 - $200-$250 Large case

1984-1987 - $100-$150  Compact case, like the Rat 2 case.

Many vintage pedals were manufactured in a very sturdy fashion, and will last a very long time.  Most were made with discreet transistors and other components that allows them to be repaired if necessary.

 The trend here is for the desireable vintage pedals to continue to increase in value.  If you want to start a fun collection that won’t break the bank, vintage pedals may be worth a look.

pricing source: 2009 Vintage Guitar Guide