About the QuickFuzz Circuit

"it sounds best with your guitar plugged directly into it, at the beginning of the pedal chain"

The circuit is a variation of one called the "Bazz Fuss" and is a popular DIY project for its low part count and dark, brutal sound. Its asymmetric clipping (different levels of distortion on the positive and negative sides of the signal) creates a richer sound than a simpler symmetric clipping arrangement.

Like some classic vintage fuzz pedals, it has a low input impedance that loads the guitar pickups, so it sounds best with your guitar plugged directly into it, at the beginning of the pedal chain.

Schematic

Learning How It Works

In Brief

For a brief description of how it works, look for these "WHAT DOES IT DO?" tip boxes while you build.

In Detail

For a more detailed analysis, first read the How Pedals Work: Conceptual Basics for the Absolute Beginner book. This will get you comfortable with the basics of electronics and the components found in this pedal.

Then to build upon this base of knowledge, refer to the How Does It Work chapter at the end of the document to see how those concepts are applied to this particular circuit.