Music / Guitar Effects
Axiom FP-1 Fuzz Preamp User Manual
Quick guide for the Axiom FP-1 Fuzz Preamp. Learn how to use the fuzz and preamp controls, adjust EQ settings, and power the pedal correctly.
Table of contents
Quick guide from the manual
The Axiom FP-1 Fuzz Preamp is a 100% analog, transistor-based fuzz pedal with true bypass. It combines classic fuzz characteristics with a cascaded preamp section designed to replicate the overdrive of a tube preamp. This pedal allows for versatile sound shaping, from germanium-style warmth to silicon-style clarity.
Control Functions
The FP-1 features six primary controls to shape your tone:
- LEVEL: Adjusts the overall output volume. Turn clockwise to increase.
- FUZZ: Controls the amount of clipping in the fuzz stage.
- PREAMP: Adjusts the gain added by the cascaded preamp stage. With this knob fully counter-clockwise, the pedal functions as a traditional fuzz. Turning it clockwise adds overdrive characteristics similar to a tube preamp.
- BASS: Adjusts low frequencies. Fully clockwise provides a flat bass response.
- MID: Adjusts mid frequencies. The 12:00 position provides a flat mids response.
- TREBLE: Adjusts high frequencies. Fully clockwise provides a flat treble response.
Usage Tips
To get the best results from your FP-1, consider the following setup advice:
- For solid-state or clean tube amps: Use the PREAMP control to add extra gain and clipping, simulating the crunch of a tube amplifier.
- For moderate to high gain tube amps: Decrease the PREAMP setting and utilize the FUZZ and LEVEL controls to push your amplifier into natural saturation.
Technical Specifications
- Power: 9 Vdc (battery or external power).
- Power Connection: 2.1 mm, center negative (9 Vdc standard).
- Current Draw: 24 mA (maximum).
- Input Impedance: 713 kOhm (minimum).
- Dimensions: 4.7" (H) x 3.9" (W) x 1.3" (D).
- Weight: 1.4 lbs (without 9V battery).
Practical help
Common problems
Sound is too thin or harsh
Adjust the BASS and TREBLE controls to balance the frequency response.
Not enough gain or saturation
Increase the PREAMP control setting to add more overdrive characteristics.
Pedal does not power on
Check the 9V battery or ensure the external power supply is a 2.1mm center-negative 9V DC adapter.
Before use
- Ensure you have a 9V battery or a compatible 9V DC power supply.
- Verify the power supply is 2.1mm center negative.
- Connect your instrument to the input and your amplifier to the output.
- Start with all knobs at a neutral position to dial in your sound.
Specs in practice
- Input Impedance (713 kOhm)
- Ensures proper signal transfer from your guitar pickups for clear tone.
- Current Draw (24 mA)
- The amount of power the pedal requires; ensure your power supply can provide at least this amount.
- Power Connection (2.1 mm, center negative)
- The standard connector type for most guitar pedals; using the wrong polarity can damage the unit.
Images and diagrams
- The control layout features six knobs: Level, Fuzz, and Preamp on the top row; Bass, Mid, and Treble on the bottom row.
Model compatibility
- Compatible with both solid-state and tube amplifiers.
- Can be used as a standalone overdrive or a fuzz pedal depending on the Preamp knob setting.
Manual page author
Emily Carter
User documentation editor
Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.