Preparing to build a ROG Phozer

[Pakaloabob]

In preparation for building the ROG Phozer, http://runoffgroove.com/phozer.html, I am trying to figure out what parts I need to buy.
I know it would probably be easier to just buy the two VTL5C2 photcouplers but that would bump up the price for this project by $11! LDRs are so much cheaper - I could buy a dozen for the same price and use them for other projects as well. At some point I would like to try the Tremulus Lune, Flatline compressor, and other circuits that use photocouplers. Buying VTLs for all those projects would add up to a considerable amount of $$!
To save some cash, I would like to try to roll my own photocouplers using LED/LDR in heatshrink tubing. I am considering buying a 5 pack of CdS photoresistors from Radioshack and trying my luck. However, I do not have any experience in circuits using photocouplers so I would be flying blind. I could really use some advice from anyone who has built the Phozer or other projects using their own home-made LED/LDR combo - specs of components used or advice on how to measure/match or adjust the circuit.
Also, I don't see a perf layout on the ROG page for Phozer although I believe there was one at some point. Where did it go?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[B Tremblay]

I used RadioShack grab bag LDRs in my homebrew unit.  I think I just easter-egged different ones. 

I do have a perf layout for the Phozer 2, but the LED/2xLDR module is not on the board.  It wasn't ever refined or verified as far as I can recall.

[Pakaloabob]

Thanks B! 
It makes me feel better to know that the circuit can function without using the VTL5C2.
After I posted, I did see in the "What's New" section of runoffgroove.com that you purposely did not post a perf layout. If you wouldn't mind sharing your layout I would like to use it as a reference for making my own. I usually use ROG layouts and then modify to fit the components that I am using.

[Pakaloabob]

UPDATE: I bought a bag of assorted LDRs from Radioshack and breadboarded the circuit - worked perfectly! I'm sure there could be some fine tuning to smooth out the sound but it works quite well with the random LDRs.