Is it legal to build replicas?

[kristoffereide]

First, Great site!

I was just wondering if it was legal to build replicas and clones?

Are "out of production"-fx legal, or are all replicas legal?

Please! I don't want to get sued

Greetings from Norway!

Kristoffer

[jefe]

Welcome!

I don't think there's anything illegal about building replicas, clones, whatever you want to call them... it's when you want to sell one of those clones that it becomes an issue.

This topic has been discussed here at great length, search around a bit. 

[kristoffereide]

yes, i did do a search. However the immense amount of posts makes it a hard task to find what I'm looking for

[anchovie]

... it's when you want to sell one of those clones that it becomes an issue.

...and only if you've copied artwork (which includes a board layout), trademarked names or something which is patented. The circuit itself can't be copyrighted. There are plenty of cloned pedals available for sale - it's not illegal, it just might get moaned about on the internet.

[jefe]

yes, i did do a search. However the immense amount of posts makes it a hard task to find what I'm looking for

The reason there are an immense amount of posts is because this is a very complex issue. The quick and easy answer is "Yes, it is legal to build replicas".

[jefe]

...and only if you've copied artwork (which includes a board layout), trademarked names or something which is patented. The circuit itself can't be copyrighted. There are plenty of cloned pedals available for sale - it's not illegal, it just might get moaned about on the internet.

Right. 

[jefe]

sorry - double post

[kristoffereide]

thanks!

[kristoffereide]

What pedals am I allowed to sell?

What if I make my own layouts? Different parts etc

[MikeH]

http://www.muzique.com/clones.htm

[bean]

It really isn't all that complicated, IMO.

Do: Draw your own schematic and PCB image, make up your own name and create original artwork. Also, make changes if you like with values or component types.

Don't: Use copyrighted material such as the manufacturers schematic drawing, PCB image or artwork. Also, don't use the manufacturer's name or product name in marketing the clone (ie "The Thingamagoogoo is a clone of the TB Elektronic HamStrung, etc).

Above all, don't clone a circuit and then claim you have made an 'original design' and goop up the insides to try and keep prying eyes out. Worst.Fail.Ever.

Whether or not you should do these things is where people differ.