Strymon Fairfax Overdrive Pedal

The Strymon Fairfax: Amp In A Box, Reimagined

Vintage-Inspired Overdrive with Tube-Like Feel

The Strymon Fairfax is more than just an overdrive pedal. It’s a complete analog amplifier circuit in stompbox form, meticulously engineered to replicate the harmonic richness and tactile response of a vintage tube amp. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Garnet Herzog amplifier used by Randy Bachman in the 60s, Fairfax recreates that iconic sustain and tone in a pedalboard-friendly package. Whether you're playing articulate rhythm parts or soaring leads, this unit delivers a natural, responsive feel that brings out the best in your playing.

Dynamic Sag Circuit for Real Amp Behavior

What sets Fairfax apart is its variable Sag control. Unlike traditional overdrives, Fairfax mimics the response of a real tube amp under load by dynamically adjusting voltage based on your playing intensity. At subtle settings, it behaves like a solid-state rectifier. Crank it up and the JFETs unbias, introducing gnarly, gated textures reminiscent of fuzzes gone rogue. This interaction between player and pedal introduces an organic compression and harmonic interplay that’s rare in modern analog effects.

Amp-Like Headroom and Response

Fairfax uses a transformer-based internal power supply that converts your standard 9V input into a high-voltage 40V environment, supplying the headroom and dynamics expected of a real amp. This elevated internal voltage allows the pedal to interact with your guitar and amplifier naturally, preserving touch sensitivity while enabling a broad gain range—from edge-of-breakup crunch to saturated, cello-like sustain. The tone is both familiar and fresh, with an unmistakable voice that complements any amp or modeler.

Studio and Stage Ready Functionality

In addition to the standard Drive and Level controls, the Fairfax includes a Bright toggle for tailoring the high-end response. Choose a smoother top end or a more present treble character depending on your rig. An internal jumper allows the pedal to boot up in an "on" state, perfect for pedal switchers and loop-based setups. This feature ensures that your sound is consistent and reliable every time you power up, even in complex or dark stage environments.

The Launch of Series A: Pure Analog Innovation

Fairfax is the debut pedal in Strymon’s new “Series A” line, a playground for the company’s analog design team. Known for their DSP excellence, Strymon shifts gears here to highlight innovative all-analog circuits, free from digital features like MIDI or presets. Series A pedals are unapologetically analog, prioritizing raw tone and hands-on feel. Fairfax is proof that analog isn’t just alive, it’s evolving.

Specifications

• Circuit: Analog

• Bypass: True bypass

• Audio: Mono

• Power Supply: 9VDC (2.1mm center negative tip)

• Current Draw: 500mA

• Controls: Drive, Level, Sag

• Switches: Bright (On/Off)

• Internal Voltage: Converts 9VDC to 40V internally

• Included Accessories: Box, Manual

This effects pedal ships fully insured with signature required.