FET Distortion method?

[freebird1127]

Ok so I'm a little confused...

When you use a FET to create distortion (or a BJT, I suppose), do you amplify the signal with the FET past the limitations of the FET (past the supply rails, thereby clipping it), then attenuate the output to line level?  And what is line level anyways?  I mean, what do most pedals output in terms of voltage?

Thanks all.  

[Alpha579]

Im pretty sure there isnt really an average output of pedals, but by putting a volume control on the end of the FET will control the output of the effect...

[freebird1127]

Yeah... While I'm sure you're right about that, part of my point/question is that there's a BIG difference between dialing from 0-1Vpp and dialing from 0 to 100Vpp (obviously I'm exaggerating  ), regardless of pot size.  So there must be an 'average', I'm thinking, that you have selectivity from... yeah?

[Alpha579]

Ok, yeh see your point...Afraid im not sure... :?

[Transmogrifox]

Try to keep the maximum around 3 Vpp.  A good example of a pedal that gets too hot is the simple version of the SmashDrive.  I put a volume pot on that one and NEVER got it above half way (which is pretty hot), and that's just over 3 Vpp at half way.