{"product_id":"shin-ei-companion-fy-2-owned-and-used-by-tom-verlaine-fuzz-effect-1970-13180","title":"shin-ei Companion FY-2 Owned and Used by Tom Verlaine Fuzz Effect (1970)","description":"shin-ei Companion FY-2 Owned and Used by Tom Verlaine Model Fuzz Effect, c. 1970, made in Japan, Black finish, aluminum. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJapanese effect manufacturing greats Shin-ei released the Companion fuzz in the late 60's and early 70's as the advent of stompbox technology caught on with guitarists internationally. The Japanese factory provided not only effects for Japan's own historically excellent music scenes, but also provided an importable and inexpensive (but good quality) option for Western audiences as well, particularly as the Sola Sounds and Maestros of the world were not always within reach. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe FY-2 is a simple fuzz with just two knobs (volume and fuzz) with a minimal circuit based around (as in the case with this example) silicone transistors, though earlier builds did feature germanium transistors. This pedal's character shines best on thick power chords and strong, punchy lead lines for an energizing blast of distorted, somewhat gated fuzz. Radiohead's Colin Greenwood, The Jesus and Mary Chain's William Reid, and The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach are among the notable fuzz lovers who found a friend in the FY-2. And seemingly, gain-staging obsessive Television's Tom Verlaine was on the list as well, probably quite satisfied with the ease with which the back can be swung open for quick 9V battery changes.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eHeight is 6 3\/4 in. (17.1 cm.), 3 1\/2 in. (8.9 cm.) width, and 2 in. (5.1 cm.) in depth at deepest point. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis pedal is in fully functional condition, completely original with minimal traces of cosmetic wear from stage and studio use by Mr. Verlaine. There is a small metal \"Companion\" label on the top of the front of the pedal that's missing, and one of the original knobs is chipped and missing its metal washer but functions without issue or discomfort, and all other labels and panels are in solid shape. This pedal does not come with a box, but it does come with a letter of authenticity signed by Patrick Derivaz, Verlaine's close friend and long time musical collaborator from whom we received the pedal. Overall Excellent Condition.","brand":"shin-ei","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46853695406220,"sku":"13180","price":1000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0672\/8702\/3756\/files\/01_6d02f330-4565-402f-bec5-be0b5579246c.jpg?v=1774343287","url":"https:\/\/retrofret.com\/products\/shin-ei-companion-fy-2-owned-and-used-by-tom-verlaine-fuzz-effect-1970-13180","provider":"RetroFret","version":"1.0","type":"link"}