Maestro Fuzz Tone

[col]

I built one of these a while ago and it didn't work very well. I actually have some free time this weekend and would like to try again.
Having read everything I can, apparently it seems that the transistors need to be quite leaky and there are inconsistencies with schematics. I have the fuzzcental one with the 1.5v supply which is the one I tried before with an AA cell and I now have that plus one with a 3v supply and various value changes. I have the parts to build either and have some leaky AC125s for a PNP version or some leaky AC141s for a NPN version.
Basically, has anyone bult one that worked well and do I need a C cell to drive the 1.5v version or should an AA do the job, and ditto for the 3v version.

Col

[Sir H C]

Do a search here, there are several threads and corrected schematics (with pics of real ones).

[tcobretti]

I tried a bunch of transistors in mine and couldn't find any that didn't work.  So, if I were you I'd socket the transistors so you can experiment to get the sound you are looking for.

I used a AA battery in mine, and it worked fine.  I guess you could use any of the 1.5v batteries (AAA, AA, C, D), the only real difference would be how long they last.

[smnm]

a recent thread:

http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=76402.0

the corrected schematic is based on lots of photos and a successful build!

[col]

Thanks for the info. I'd done a search before I posted but obviously had got something wrong as when I tried again I got lots of info up. I built the 1.5v version using Fuzzcental's schematic with the AC125s and it worked first time. Not a huge OTT fuzz but a very good vintage sounding unit. Putting 3v on it doesn't make much difference to the sound at all.
I also replaced both 10K collector resistors with trim pots but will probably take them off as Q2 sounds best between 8 and 10k and Q3 sounds best with the pot on full 10K.
If I get the chance next weekend I'll try the 3v version and see how different it is,

Col