YMMV, but I've never felt like I needed that on mine, at least the ways I've used it.(before/after fuzz, pushing front of amp, cocked wah) It is definitely a useful pedal after the learning how to dial it in!
You know, I had an order from Tayda come in the other day, and 2 of the pots I've checked so far were VERY stiff (Tayda branded) until the grease got spread around good on the inside.
I very seriously doubt you will have much of a problem with noise, along as the box is grounded. Signals and voltages in those circuits are small, and consume relatively little current. Interference from outside will be the consideration. Not to say the circuits as designed and built can't be...
I've never had a problem with Tayda over anything. All their ic's have been great up until 5 minutes ago. Had a PT2399 not pass signal, right out of the foam. For as much as I've used them, that's a great record!👍
It's probably working correctly if it sounds fine. D1 and D2 may light up, D3 and D4 may not. Removing one of the leds would have little effect on the perceived sound.
Perf board is great stuff, and really not hard if you think ahead just a bit. When I was 12, I used to make little transistor multivibrators with an led soldered on a board about the size of a postage stamp. I was making a fake car alarm blinking light that could fit in a cars dash. Gave 'em to...
Make sure the tip of your sucker doesn't have a chunk of solder blocking it up! This can happen more than you would expect. I love a good sucker, way better than a wick in a lot of instances!
Yeah, my local shop doesn't get much new stock. It was always kind of a pull-a-part type place. Years ago, it had all kinds of radio equipment, industrial machines of all kinds, bought out electronics manufacturing raw parts. It was really incredible. 1.00$ grab bags were an especially fun time...
Built mine! Only played with it for an hour or so, so I'll have more to say soon. First impressions are great! Definitely a great drive. I'd say more British than American sounding? Great range on all controls. Lots crunch if you want it. I used the modified components.