Changing a fuzzface into fuzz/overdrive unit

[Michael]

Hi

I have modified a fuzzface (reissue) into a silicon fuzz BC108.

Everything is working fine, but i would like to loose a bit of the Fizzy/fuzzy bee thing... and make it a bit moore like a overdrive.

I really like a lot of the fuzz characteristics, so i still want that... not a standard overdrive... i have that allready.

But how do i mod my fuzz to be smoother more like a overdrive?

Changing caps? resistors? input output caps? both?

Any suggestions are very much welcome.

Michael

[GibsonGM]

Hi Michael,
There are a few things you could do.  I'm thinking of the original FF ckt here - you could play with the resistance at the emitter of Q1, the drive control, and set it to the max you want (or just turn it down!).   Then, adjust caps for bass/treble cuts on in and output.  Overall volume level is set by the resistor at Q2's collector (I like overdrive to be a bit 'hot' myself).   The input cap being small causes much of the buzzzzz, as well as the level of drive to Q2.  Collector resistor of Q1 seems to have much to do with driving Q2...

Most noticeable mod would probably be larger input cap and less drive, then output cap.  Then, making sure the bias is correct on both Q's would help.  Fuzz is tough as overdrive, IMHO....I use mine ALL ON or ALL OFF, pretty much.   Tends to sound crappy anywhere in between - but mine is germanium.   You could try rebuilding a fuzz on a breadboard and playing with the above components, much easier than messing with the board!!
Search the forum, there is a lot of info on this...

[tungngruv]

If you put Joe Gagan's "input cap blend" on your fuzz, you can go from woolly to OD with a twist of the knob. Check it out here:

http://generalguitargadgets.com/diagrams/ezface_blend_cap.jpg

Trust me, it works great!

[Michael]

thanks, i will try some of those suggestions.

Thanks again guys.

MIchael