Fuzz pot sub on YAFF

[Ben N]

I know this must have been asked a hundred times, but I can't find it in Search, so I apologize (this is for you,Andy--search can be a fickle friend  ).

Can I substitute a 5k for the 1k fuzz pot in the YAFF I am building (or in any FF, for that matter)? And if so, should I parallel it with say a 1.5k resistor to get it close to the correct value?

While we're at it, I've heard that people just leav the fuzz pot maxed, and just control "gain" at the input with the guitar. Any opinions on this? I do have a 1k trimmer I could stick in there, if th the fuzz post is not all that important as a panel control.

Edit: eh, one more Q: All I had (or could find after rummaging thru the sad remains of the parts drawers at 2 RSs) for collector bypass cap was a nominal 22uf salvaged from a modem, which, however, measured only about 15uf. (I know, don't use salvaged electros...) Is this ok?

TIA,
Bn

[Nasse]

I think you can just solder it in and maybe you like it, I think 2k pot was famous mod on some designs too but dunno how 5k affects the DC level of the crcuit

[Gus]

This is a DIY place so

get a bunch of resistors 1k, 1.2k, 1.5k, 1.8k,2k, 2.2k. 2.7k .........................................................

get out you meter and measure the B C and Es and write down the voltages as you sub the fixed value resistor for the pot.  You are looking for operating points(voltages at the transistors C,B and E)

Or do what I do use a 1K gain and a external 5K bias pot you can find this in the schematic section
http://www.diystompboxes.com/pedals/gusFuzzFace.gif 
does not have to be a 2n3904 try any small signal Si NPN most should bias right up.

A 5k will "work"  will it be the sound you want from the fuzz?

Don't get stuck thinking the 2nd transistor has to be at 4.5V.  Use your ears, then measure when you find the "sound" you like.

Just saw this
http://www.runoffgroove.com/tantalus.html
It is good to read someone tried the emitter R. 

[Ben N]

Thanks, guys.

Gus, I will take your suggestion (once I get the other outboard parts attached) to get the right value for best bias. BTW, I am using 2N2369 trannies, per Jack's recipe, hfe 90 and 110.  My question is more about the need for a panel pot at all on the emitter of Q2, once it is optimized for best sound. Maybe a Fuller-type serial input pot would be more useful.

Ben

[Ben N]

Anyone else?
(Last bump, sorry.)