Funny sweep control on Crash Sync

[oldrocker]

This is going to be the most non-conventional LED/LDR control for a pedal in a long time.  I built a Crash Sync a couple of days ago and wanted a foot control for the sweep so I used a cloths pin.  It blocks the light from the LED to the LDR and when you step on the cloths pin it lets the light through.  I know it's silly looking but it works.  I put a little piece of shrink tube over the LED and LDR to block as much room light as possible.

[Paul Marossy]

That's clever and resourceful! 

[oldrocker]

Thanks Paul,  It works really good too, believe it or not even when there is light in the room.  I also added a toggle switch with switches off the LED and then you can use the pot to adjust the sweep where you want it.  Since this pedal is just for fun I didn't want to track down a Cry Baby or similar shell just for this effect.  It makes for a good conversation piece too.

[Paul Perry (Frostwave)]

Nice1, Oldrocker!
That's the most DIY thing I've seen lately.. in ANY field! Top marks!

[oldrocker]

Thanks Paul P. I take that as a compliment. I'm not sure if I'll use this for all my foot controller issues but it's nice for a quick easy way to get control over an effect.  I would like to try this for a wah pedal although I might need some sort of light shield over the LED/LDR.  I'll try it without one first and see how it goes.

[reverberation66]

     yeah, thanks for sharing, that is a really creative take on the DIY foot controller, excellent work!!!!

[soggybag]

That's a great idea!

[Noplasticrobots]

Ingenious.

[oldrocker]

For the light shield on my Crash Sync I used a small mini bread loaf pan. I cut off about a quarter of it and mounted it upside down over the LED/LDR. Then I cut out cardboard and duct taped to the front so I can lift it to adjust the LED and turn the knobs easier. Just more DIYing for ya.
http://www.logmonster.com/images/full/?pic=crash3_1159247363-422-13733.jpg
http://www.logmonster.com/images/full/?pic=Crashs1_1159230403-422-13732.jpg

[birt]

smart move