SonicBeast 2: Distortion + Fuzz PUBLIC

Extreme Op-Amp Distortion Plus Shunt-Diode Fuzz

Circuit provides extreme distortion from op-amps, plus fuzz from shunt-type Schottky-diode array, along with 3-band active tone. Controls Include: Master Drive, Clean Gain, Clean Level, Distortion Gain 1, Distortion Drive, Distortion Gain 2, Distortion Level, Fuzz enable switch, Fuzz symmetry switches (two, with 2 settings each), Fuzz Depth, Bass, Mid, Treble, and Volume. Frequency Range between -3 dBV corners is 40 Hz to 12 kHz. Suitable for 6/7-string guitar or 4-string bass. Caution! High-gain circuit. Example gains with all controls at 50%: +34 dBV @ 160 Hz, +31 dBV @ 1 kHz, and +18 dBV @ 4 kHz, but over twice each with all controls at 100%. [Do not use circuit with all controls at 100% except as a worst-case scenario during breadboard testing.] Note: Diode Array is part of IC2 circuitry, so clean signal is unaffected by it, while clean, distorted, and fuzz signals are mixed in the tone-control circuit. However, the Tone Stage can be overdriven to get additional distortion. IC2 and IC3 were chosen to provide distortion close to that of a 12AX7 preamp tube, while Schottky diodes give soft fuzz similar to that of germanium diodes. For changing op-amp types, keep IC1 as is in all cases, but IC2 or IC3 can be replaced as follows. For JFET distortion, use a TL082CP. For MOSFET distortion, use an OPA2156IDR. For distortion only from IC2 and clean operation of IC3, use an OPA2134PA for IC3 or other dual op-amp IC with the same or better noise figures. Power-supply not shown. Requires a regulated dual-polarity DC supply providing +-9VDC or +-12VDC or +-15VDC at >= 60 mA of current. And though simulator verified, treat the circuit as experimental. Breadboard test before committing to a soldered build.