first bassdude build

M

mkultra69

Member
Super excided to get this build started, but while I wait for everything to arrive figured I would ask some pre-build questions. Since this is my first tube build is there anything I should be mindful of with this type of build, or is it pretty much like any other pedal build? Is there any advantage to running this at 12v, and if so should I increase C1 to a 400v cap? And speaking of caps, since I will only be using this on bass should I omit C6? Thanks for any input.
 
It's pretty much just like any other pedal build unless it doesn't work first try and you have to debug, then you need to be extra careful where your fingers are going.

There shouldn't be any benefit to running it at 12V over 9V, but I've had people swear 12V sounds better, so use your ears for that. Couldn't hurt to bump C1 to 400V though. I leave C6 on even for bass use because it can otherwise get a bit dark, but again, use your ears and do what sounds good to you.
 
I always use a switch when there is a bright capacitor, I solder 2 wires into the capacitor holes on the PCB and bring them up to the center contacts on a DPDT switch and then I place the capacitor on the top 2 contacts on the switch.
It makes it a lot easier to change the capacitor as well if you are chasing a tone, I just solder the capacitor legs to the side of the switch lugs and never thread them through the holes of the lugs since there is not much force on the solder joints.
I prefer to have the option of having it switchable, and if someone wants to try the pedal for guitar or bass they can hear the difference.
I usually use 400V caps for C1, you will have to be very careful when you power the pedal up since there are very high voltages in this build.
 
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