Sputnik III Cadet: Germanium Fuzz

The Sputnik III is the third iteration of our famous all-germanium fuzz circuit. Featuring vintage Soviet-era transistors, the Sputnik III incorporates features from previous versions while also offering its own voice and unique functionality.

GERMANIUM MAGIC

Germanium fuzz has a long history in the world of musical effects, known for its organic and responsive sound. Complex textures, gritty crunch, beautiful sustain and character. It’s all there waiting for you to discover. As with all Spaceman pedals, the Sputnik fuzz series is an homage to the golden era of electronics and is brimming with vintage soul. Utilizing a NOS Soviet germanium diode and transistors, we’ve gone to great lengths to ensure the Sputnik III lives up to the reputation of its predecessors.

HIGHLY INTERACTIVE AND ADDICTIVE

Characteristic of germanium fuzzes, all of the controls are quite interactive and a wide variety of sounds can be observed with experimentation. The Sputnik III incorporates the best features of both previous pedals. The input transformer from the Sputnik II ensures that the Sputnik III will behave anywhere in your signal chain. The footswitch actuated DRIFT mode has also been taken from the Sputnik II and enhanced with optional momentary functionality.

DRIFT mode and SCAN control allow you to unleash the unpredictable corruption of the Sputnik III. With careful use of playing dynamics and control settings, DRIFT mode can yield a nearly infinite range of truly unique sounds; from upper and lower octaves, to synth-oscillations, 8-bit artifacts and more.

The Sputnik circuit's unique tone control (labeled CALIBRATE for distinction) is highly interactive with the RANGE gain control. The FILTER toggle switch offers mid-scooped and flat settings in conjunction with the CALIBRATE control. Relay based soft-touch switching provides more durability and flexibility than ever before.

Housed in a durable cast aluminum enclosure, the mid-sized form factor allows for an enhancement in function over the original Sputnik, and an enhancement in practicality over the Sputnik II. Step into your inner world and discover a new wellspring of creativity and boundless possibility with the Sputnik III.

SPUTNIK III FEATURES

• Unique germanium fuzz, powered by NOS Soviet-era germanium transistors
• Features an input transformer for pedalboard-friendly integration
• Foot-switchable DRIFT Mode for wild oscillation, octave and 8-bit artifact tones
• FILTER switch provides two voicing options for the CALIBRATION tone control
• Drift footswitch can be programmed for either latching or momentary action
• Multi-function jewel indicator shows DRIFT and Bypass status simultaneously
• True-Bypass relay switching via momentary footswitch
• Requires external 9v DC power supply (center-negative)

A CADET SERIES PEDAL

The Cadet Series brings Spaceman’s signature sonic character to a wider audience through repeatable, SMD-based designs. Classic Spaceman designs with the same attention to tone and detail, these pedals offer consistent availability, accessible pricing, and everyday reliability - without sacrificing the individuality that defines Spaceman. Screen printed faceplates and raw metal enclosures set this series apart. Ideal for working musicians and pedalboard-ready setups, the Cadet Series is where our craft meets practicality.