Forum Replies Created
-
AuthorPosts
-
BarryKeymasterIt’s how I roll. đ
BarryKeymasterOften times the difference heard involves mis-biasing when using a different chip.
This can include clipping, distortion, and reduced headroom.
While mis-biasing is usually considered a fault in standard circuit design, some pedal builders do it intentionally to create unique, gritty, or lo-fi effects.
I am not sure you would hear a difference worth noting between two chips with similar specs.
BarryKeymasterVery nice! I am waiting to hear about this Fuzz Octave thing.
Send me an email and elaborate regarding any problems with the insert jacks.
September 10, 2024 at 8:42 pm in reply to: A funny thing happened while cleaning out the closet… #33290
BarryKeymasterTry setting the Bias by ear if you can. That may be too low.
And you really need to try the Luna Fuzz.
September 10, 2024 at 5:31 pm in reply to: A funny thing happened while cleaning out the closet… #33286
BarryKeymasterWith regard to the 60’s Fuzz not fuzzing what transistors did you use?
I ask because the 60s Fuzz does not use a conventional pinout. See BC183 datasheet. The pinout is different than all the other BC type transistors which is what the PCB is designed for so if you put another transistor type in there without bending the leads it will not work correctly.
And what did you use as the bias voltage? If it is not the transistor type the bias could be an issue as well.
Finally make sure the transistors are firmly seated as that can also be a cause.
BarryKeymasterLooks great! Thanks for sharing.
I bet you can’t wait to finish the next huge batch.
BarryKeymasterI’m not an expert on the four-cable method, and to be honest, I hadnât really considered it before, so I might be misunderstanding you. When you mentioned using the Paramix, I donât see the need for an A/B switch in this case. You could place the preamps in the Paramix loop to switch them in and out as needed. Plus, thereâs an advantage to having the loop in parallel, and since the Paramix has a phase switch, it doesnât matter how many effects you run or how often you switch them out for different ones. Any potential phase issue can be resolved with just the flick of a switch.
BarryKeymasterYou are welcome to share here if you like. In case it may benefit a future traveler.
BarryKeymasterExcellent build and thanks for sharing!
I love the glow in the dark idea. Just like my guitar picks.

When you get a chance, could you share some high-resolution, rectangular photos that are suitable for promotion? I’d love to showcase your build. If possible, please include both versionsâone in regular lighting and one with the glow-in-the-dark effect.
BarryKeymasterI do not have any cad files.
BarryKeymasterThe Paramix could be beneficial for a number of reasons.
It has a Phase switch as well as buffering and mixing.
BarryKeymasterI am unfamiliar with the ways of the four-cable method, so I sought counsel from the Metal Godz. I offered a sacrifice and waited in the shadows for their answer to be revealed. In time, their whispers reached me, and this is what they said.
———————————–
Yes, you can set up a Tone Box to act as an A/B switch in the effects loop of an amp, allowing you to toggle between the ampâs front input (preamp section) and the return jack (power amp section) when using the 4-cable method.
Hereâs how you can do it:
- A/B Switching Circuit: The Tone Box would need an A/B switch to toggle between sending the guitar signal directly into the front of the amp (Input) or into the Return of the effects loop (bypassing the preamp).
- Wiring Setup:
- Input: Plug the guitar into the Tone Box.
- A Output: Connect to the amp’s Input (front panel). This sends the guitar signal through the preamp section.
- B Output: Connect to the amp’s Return jack. This bypasses the preamp and sends the signal directly into the power amp.
- 4-Cable Method:
- Cable 1: Guitar to Tone Box input.
- Cable 2: Tone Box âAâ Output to ampâs Input (front panel).
- Cable 3: Ampâs Send jack to the Tone Box input (if the Tone Box has an effects input).
- Cable 4: Tone Box âBâ Output to the ampâs Return jack.
- Operation:
- When the A/B switch is in position âA,â the guitar signal flows through the ampâs preamp section, allowing you to use the ampâs front controls (gain, EQ, etc.).
- When switched to position âB,â the guitar signal bypasses the preamp and goes directly into the power amp section via the Return jack.
Advantages:
- Versatility: This setup lets you easily switch between the ampâs natural tone (using the preamp) and an external preamp or pedal setup (through the power amp), giving you a broader range of tones.
- Signal Routing: The Tone Box acting as an A/B switch simplifies your rig, eliminating the need to manually plug and unplug cables during a performance.
Considerations:
- True Bypass: Ensure that the Tone Box is true bypass or has minimal impact on your signal when switching.
- Signal Levels: Be mindful of signal levels when switching, as the return might need a different input level than the front input. Some buffering or level adjustment might be necessary.
This configuration offers a flexible way to integrate different preamps or effects into your rig, making your amp even more versatile.
Thank you for the sacrifice.
BarryKeymasterGlad to hear. Thanks for the update.
BarryKeymasterGlad to hear. Thanks for the update.
BarryKeymasterPlease share photos that clearly show all connections. Also, let us know which JFET youâre using and provide the voltage readings for all three pinsâD, S, and G. Ensure all common ground connections are properly made, as this could be the source of your noise issue. Iâm not familiar with the Musikding 250 at all, so youâll need to double-check your wiring. Itâs always best to fully test your circuit before installing it into the Buff N Blend, and make sure youâre sharing the ground properly.
What you’re describing doesnât make sense unless thereâs a wiring error, ground problem, or another build issue. The Buff N Blend is designed to strengthen your signal with its simple Buffer and provide a direct audio path that doesnât alter the frequency response.
High-frequency loss, or noise is not a behavior for the Buff N Blend. This PCB has been available for nearly 13 years and is one of our most popular, so any design flaw would have been caught long ago.
The stock capacitor values are carefully chosen to avoid cutting either high or low frequencies.
If youâre hearing Fuzz, it strongly suggests thereâs an issue with the build.
I recommend posting clear pictures of all the connections, and answering the questions so we can try to help.
BarryKeymasterNice build and thanks for sharing.
I always felt that this was an excellent combo using the Tone TwEQ to add to the tone and functionality of either a Dist+ or DOD250.
BarryKeymasterGood to see your build. I haven’t seen you around for a while.
Thanks for sharing.
-
AuthorPosts

