SWTC and fuzz pedal defuzzing

[Hendrixisgod]

Alright so to start off, I have this fuzz circuit that gives a pretty decent sound. But I'm looking to make some adjustment. Oh and here's the schematic: http://www.aaroncake.net/circuits/fuzz.asp
Changes:
1. If I replace one of the diodes in the clipping section with some sort of germanium diode, will it create more of an asymmetrical distortion? If so, any recommendations as to good germanium diodes/any other good diodes at all for asymettry? Btw, the diodes in now are n4148.
2. Is there any way to dull down the fuz and make it a little less harsh? I don't know if that's possible or not but any different values or anything would be cool.
3. I'm going to add swtc for my tone control. Any good schematics/values for the swtc?
Help anywhere here is GREATLY appreciated!!!

[LucifersTrip]

I'll give you the beginner answer since I'm a novice...

0) experiment with everything first...first-hand trial & error is best

1) I don't know about symmetry of the distortion, but different diodes will give you different sounds. I built the Muff Fuzz* and Buzz Box
and tried 10-15 different, random diodes with each. Most diodes had no effect at all, but I always found a couple that changed the sound.
*The op-amp Muff Fuzz looks like it uses diodes in a similar manner:
http://www.demonsdisks.com/pics/mufffuzz.pdf

2) First, replace all resistors with pots and tweak till you like the sound....and in almost all of the pedals I've built so far, increasing
the input/output caps knocks out treble and reduces harshness (and sometimes fuzz)...and vice versa


good luck

[Solidhex]

You can replace diodes in the clipping section, change one for asymmetrical distortion, various things. You really need to use your ears. Some methods of clipping can seem more interesting based on their description but its best to try them out first via breadboard or other way before deciding what to commit to.
  You should check out the FAQ section about pedal mods. In general the treble response ( or lack of low end ) of a pedal determines wether a pedal sounds "harsh" or not. That's addressed in there. Ad a tone control. use negative feedback. Bunch of things to do...

[petemoore]

  Preboost may be similar to changing the diode clipping thresholds.
  Assymetry is easy, make the + diode Si, make the - diode Ge [various combinations etc.], but 'one diode'' and ''the other way'' diode is sufficient, no need to worry about which one is + or which one is - [unless you have a reason to]...since it seems it's everything else that is super particular, super fiddlin' with diode thresholds wore me out, I decided at 3 different threshold settings on a switch and pre-cut or pre-gain...that way infinite adjust of hardness of clipping, and various symmetry/assymetry...that's overkill too though once you have decent clippping...play it like it's a vintage/simple 2 knob distorter etc.
  The SWTC will dull it sufficiently, or be otherwise workable, getting rid of HF's is simple LP filter, can happen anywhere, along any signal path.
  Trick is don't over do it, I like my highs grown then cut...YMWV, for ''dulling'', I would say nip the highs at the bud [LP early along the chain.