Bootleg Diode Orientation

[Mr Phil]

I built the Bootleg (Moonshine) with a 3-way switch and sockets for two of the diodes (D4 and the LED). The pedal sounds great with the switch on D1/D2 or in the center (no diodes). However, it sounded a little off with D4/LED diodes installed per the build instructions.

I starting poking around with my meter. With D4 and LED removed and switch in the center (off), I get continuity across the red and blue areas, which should correspond to the areas I've marked on the schematic (see pics). However, that would mean both anodes of the D4/LED diodes are on the same side of the circuit, which does not match the schematic. To make things more confusing, I went back to the LED polarity thread, and it seems the screen printing on the board is opposite (A is on the square pad instead of the circle pad).



I did flip the LED around and it sounds better to my ear. I'm speculating the A and K labels on the board and build instructions are swapped for the LED, or perhaps I've misinterpreted something. Hopefully one of you can clarify for me and everyone else. Thanks!

 

[giovanni]

There is a separate thread about LED symbols which might be helpful. In short, I think you might be correct.

 

[Mr Phil]

Yeah, I think you're referring to this pinned discussion. I've read it a few times and keep a printed copy of the LED symbols on my work bench. The Bootleg clipping LED doesn't match those.

Thread 'LED polarity' https://forum.pedalpcb.com/threads/led-polarity.5/

To be honest, I'm happy with my build as it is, but would like to clarify for anyone else that builds the Bootleg. Before starting a build I always search the forum for any common questions, issues, tips, mods, etc. I'm guessing others do the same.

 

[robbroncs]

I just got done building this. Is the D3 LED supposed to light up? Silly me drilled a hole for it