So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

Keep in mind that a TweakFuzz is basically just a Fuzz-Face, with a six-position input tone control. If you go to this page, and scroll almost to the bottom, (where it says "Mods and Magic"), you can see some of the mods to make. Of those three resistor changes, SD already does the 3rd 1k-emitter-resistor-to-2k mod. The TF still keeps the 470 and 8.2k resistors though. The TF also uses the "softening" cap on the base/collector of the 1st transistor.

Other than that, just search for "fuzzface mods". ;)
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

Artie , are you saying you know the answer but arent sharing? ;)
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

I just did share! :cool2:

Honestly, though, I don't know what Frank was going to say. I just know the TF is a Fuzzface, so any FF mods apply. Having said that, I like how it sounds just as it is.
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

Alright I got the output mod. The Tweak Fuzz uses surface mounted components, but each component is flanked by through-holes. So you can mount any through hole part in place of the surface mount. For this mod, if you're a precision solderer, you can actually use the surface mount resistor to do the mod, and literally purchase nothing.

Step-by-step:

First, open the unit and remove the nuts on the jacks so the main board comes out. Flip it over. This output mod involves R4 and R5 only. Remove R4 and throw it away. Next remove R5 and if you can save it, AND if you are good enough at soldering SMT's, use it as R4. It's an 8.2k, 1/8 watt resistor. You can also go to Radio Shack or wherever, and buy a through hole resistor and mount it in the through holes already set up for you around R4. Then jump R5 with a piece of wire. Done.

Simple explanation:

Replace R4 with R5 (or new 8.2k) and short R5.


Then turn the volume DOWN! The pedal will be much louder. Have fun.
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

Thats what I'm talking about, thanks Frank. Now I have to take a peek and see if its something I think I can tackle.
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

If you buy the resistor at Radio Shack anyone who can solder can tackle it. You can even use the extra wire you cut off from one end of the resistor as your jumper for R5. If you try to do it for "free" which is to save R5 and re-use it on R4, then you have to be a bit of a surgeon. FYI you can also leave R5 in there and jump around it. You don't actually have to remove it if you don't want to. That's the beauty of those through holes on either side.
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

Just curious why this isn't done in the first place?

I can re-wire a guitar any day of the week but I always kind of get a litle freaked out taking apart stomp boxes. How much damage could I potentially do here?
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

I just got one of these, great sounds but the volume drop as noted here is really unacceptable and odd. Where was QC on this one? SD should offer to mod this free with owners paying for postage. Pedal mods aren't as easy as swapping pickups.
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

They build the pedal exactly as Blues Saraceno approved it at the end of design. For better or worse, that's the way it is. Many people seem to prefer more volume, and it seems the mod couldn't be easier.
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

I will try the mod. Again, I really like the pedal -- don't know where Blues' ears are at. The booklet with the pedal talks about cranking the vol knob and the pedal acting like a boost, so either Blues is nuts or a component misfired. Either way I will change it, and when it growls I will too.

Also thanks to Frank for the instructions...I think...
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

alright.

tackled the tweakfuzz mod this past weekend. all went smoothly and now I have more than enough volume available. I actually used a 10k for the r4 resistor instead of the recomended 8.2k, i didnt have an 8.2k and was too lazy to drive the 3 minutes to the shack to get one. the 10k works perfectly, no tone change that i can really notice, just loads more volume. easiest mod I have ever done. fuzz circuits arent that cramped anyways.

good luck if you plan to do this mod, its a good starting point to get into modding pedals.
 
Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

As the OP (and misspeller of Franks name)I'm ashamed to say I sold mine without ever trying the mod. Kind of wish I had :)
 
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Re: So where is that Tweak Fuzz mod? (Frankfablo)

Would it be possible to change the resistors to other values and get a volume boost somewhere in between the original and your mod suggestion?
 
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