Info on how to learn audio electronics/roles of components?

[tommycataus]

Hi everyone, apologies if this question has already been asked... this is my first post!

I've built a couple of basic/intermediate pedals and have educated myself on understanding schematics. I'm planning on tinkering with existing circuits to come up with my own ideas for fun like a lot of you guys do, but I'm struggling to find any info about what each component does in terms of effects on the audio signal.

For example, is there anywhere online that takes you through stompbox schematics and talks step-by-step through what each component actually does to modify the sound in a well known pedal? I'm trying to get my head around the roles of individual components and I'm at a loss as to where to look for a comprehensive overview. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys!

Tom

[Arcane Analog]

http://www.beavisaudio.com/

Great for beginers.

[gcme93]

+1 to Beavis Audio!

Slightly less of a fundamental level, but http://www.kitrae.net/music/big_muff_guts.html is a great source for the more ad hoc adjustments to tone filters, gain adjustments etc. Its always nice to see a more complex looking circuit broken down into clear building blocks.

Have fun!

[tommycataus]

Thanks guys. You know, sometimes stating the obvious helps - I've been on Beavis' site about 100 times this year and never thought to read up on the basics of stompbox components. Schoolboy error! I really appreciate your help.

Tom

[tommycataus]

gcme93: that is amazing, big thanks. Big Muff Pi is the one I'm working on at the moment, I've just translated the schematic to vero and will be soldering fairly soon. Perfect!

Tom

[Jopn]

I'm just starting out as well, and I really found Tonefiends Project #1 to be extremely helpful:
http://tonefiend.com/tonefiend-diy-club-projects-resources/

He takes the time to explain things as you go, and points off many jump off points for modification.

[tommycataus]

That's really cool too, thanks for your help. The mrs is away this weekend so I think I'll have plenty to be getting on with...

Tom

[Thecomedian]

always set benchmark goals for yourself.

build a simple, open circuit that you can stick extra components on as modifications to "hear" the result. Here, building it visually like a schematic is a good way to keep it in focus.

download a spice program like LTspice or something.

Transistor Amp 1.1 is a good shortcut. tweaking values back and forth will help you "see" how impedance and such work.

circuits for Dummies, the website, may help. I used it before.

A lot of opinion is that actually building circuits and then testing the nodes with a real DMM/voltmeter is more comprehensive learning than reading or spice simulators.