Fuzz factory not working can't hear drive signal

[Denchy1]

Hi all,

So I decided to build my own fuzz factory. But it doesn't work. Here's the info on the issue:

Name: Zvex Fuzz Factory
Schematics: http://www.sabrotone.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/FuzzFactory.gif
I also wired a 3dpt switch from here: http://www.muzique.com/news/images/3PDT_3.jpg

Followed schematics to the T all resistors capacitors etc are correctly rated.

Switch works. When it is bypassed it does not change the signal. When it is on, I can hear all the oscillations from the knobs like a fuzz factory would do but not the drive - I can hear no sound that is actually my guitar.

Voltages according to schematic

Q1

E 0
B 0.63
C 9.47

Q2

E 8.56
B 8.93
C 8.99

Q3

E 8.97
B 8.67
C 8.96

All voltages below are from top to bottom as you look at the schematic

C3

8.97
8.88

C1

0
0

C2

1.47
8.92

R1

0.63
1.47

R2

8.96
1.47

R3

8.92
8.96

R4

8.67
0.02

R5

8.95
4.36

R6

0
0


Any help would be greatly appreciated!

P.S. I don't seem to be able to attach any pics..

[Hemmel]

Hello Denchy!

For the pictures, you can use free picture hosting sites such as imgur.com.
Once the pic is uploaded, it gives you links that you can copy/paste onto your post on this forum.

If you say that while playing around with the pots you can hear oscillations, then maybe it's your guitar signal that's not going through.
Check C1 (rating, orientation).
Check the input solder on board.
Check if you cut line "a" (from veroboard schematic) to isolate input from Stab 3.

Finally, you should definitely read this post on this forum.
It can provide you with the help you need.

[a2music]

The fact that the collectors of all three transistors are right around 9V would suggest either a solder bridge or the orientation of one or more of the transistors is off. I sell DIY fuzz kits and the problem you describe is the most common tech-support issue we have. Often the solution is to just reflow the solder. When you're working with strip board it's really easy to have a hairline bridge that is almost impossible to see. It sounds like you've been very thorough in checking all of your components so the problem is not likely to be a backwards transistor but it's always good to triple check.


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