with your jap boss pedals in mind, these are pricey but might be ideal - [url="http://www.stringsdirect.co.uk/products/6488-stage_trix_sf_1_pedal_fastener_3_pack"]http://www.stringsdirect.co.uk/products/64...fastener_3_pack[/url]
"the bassline in this Led Zeppelin inspired track consists mainly of syncopated eighth notes, but should be played with plenty of expressive variations and colour. The second half of the piece is largely a matter for your own creative instincts, whether in the bass solo or by supplying accompaniment to the other solos that are present in the song. Dynamic shaping will be important here, and you should use this as an expressive tool as much as you can"
HTH
definitely Tim Smith, Zappa, but i'd like to add EVH to the list.
Multi instrumentalist, arguably changed the face of rock guitar, regrettably responsible for shredders as artists! IMO, however a genius none the less.
Is it ever worth trying to buff a turd just a little?
only if you have run out of flags!
i believe that what has already been said pretty much covers it
^^^^
dunno about a single pedal, but i've made passable hysteria type noises running a bass big muff into a lomenzo hyperdrive.
having said that, the blowtorch does me well for time is running out. Might be worth a try