An all-analog, transistor-based fuzzbox, EarthQuaker’s new Zoar is billed as a “Dynamic Audio Grinder Distortion Pedal.” In plain English, it delivers square-wave sorcery for guitar or bass rigs that’s great for psychedelic sounds, ’60s garage fuzz, or even stoner metal.

The Zoar’s layout couldn’t be simpler. There’s three-band EQ, but the starring knob is the Weight control, which adds an extra blast of bass frequencies that can radically alter the way Bass, Middle, and Treble interact. A wildly dynamic unit when Gain is dialed below 2 o’clock (think of the snarly tone in the Smithereens’ “A Girl Like You”), turn up the Gain, scoop the Middle, and the Zoar will punch hard in your favorite drop tunings. It isn’t your typical tube-amp replica; instead, it covers everything from subtle overdrive to aggressive fuzz. The EQ knobs are particularly sensitive and practical for tone sculpture. Another hip feature: it runs on the standard 9 volts, but with 18 volts brings more sonic detail and headroom.

If you want a set-it-and-forget-it dirt pedal, grab the standard green OD. But if you want devilish sounds as your fuzz-addled creative partner, the EarthQuaker Zoar is the real deal.

This article originally appeared in VG’s February 2024 issue. All copyrights are by the author and Vintage Guitar magazine. Unauthorized replication or use is strictly prohibited.