Distorition Tone Shaping

[WGTP]

I was just looking at the schematic for the Blue Magic/Peppermill type circuit and see at least 5 capacitors that effect bass roll off/frequency response.  I think the effect, depending on -3db points is usually going to be a 2nd to 5th order filter IN THE BASS RESPONSE of the device, or 12 to 36db/oct. bass roll off.  This is similar to most distortions, and some will have even more roll off opportunities.

My point is, when building distoritions, it is a really good idea to socket several of the cap's effecting the bass response, to assist you in getting the sound you want.  More or less bass distortion in the first vs. second vs. third stage, etc. stage can have a BIG influence on the character of the device.  If your device is thin sounding...  Lots of bass = Fuzz IMHO, but that also effects the overal drive and level of distortion.

In addition, both of these devices have treble roll off as well, although not as many opportunities, but that can have an equal amount of effect on the final character of the device.

What we end up with, is rolled off lows and highs, and mids that are subject to getting notched, in the currently popular tonal palatte, although they Rocked the '80's.

I'll go back to my cave now.