Shin-ei Companion FY-2 Fuzz possible changes?

[Freddy205]

Hi I was just wondering about possible changes to this circuit. I read somewhere that the circuits output actually comes from a different point than specified on this schematic? Do these component values look correct to you guys? Thanks for any help Much appreciated.

[Mark Hammer]

I have an original one, and yes the component values are absolutely correct.  All the caps are ceramic so don't go driving yourself nuts trying to get plastic caps.  The transistors are 2SC536, which are still widely available.  I imagine a pair of 2N5088 trannies will easily sub.

When I looked at this schem, the Fuzz pot struck me as odd and misconnected.  What I did was wire it up so that the two outside lugs went to the 2200pf and 3300pf caps, and the wiper went to the 1000pf cap.  Turns out that both of these arrangements, mine and the one shown here, will work.  I find the one I suggested provides a broader range of fuzz settings.

You will note that the 4-component network between the Fuzz and Volume pots is simply a mid-scoop wide notch filter, very similar to that seen on the Superfuzz and some other pedals. You can certainly play around with it to achieve some other sorts of tones.  Alternatively, do what they did with the Superfuzz and insert a DPDT switch to select between the scooped fuzz (as is) and a nonscooped fuzz.  I suspect you can simply replace everything between the Fuzz and Volume pots with a 39k resistor or something like that.

This is a terrific little circuit IMHO.  Pushed hard with a booster it delivers terrific splat.  I wouldn't doubt for a minute that this is one of those circuits that might behave interestingly with a "dying battery" circuit.

[Freddy205]

Thanks alot, thats just what I was looking for. I'll give it a crack