Build Your Own Clone Message Board

Hey There,
First post, built a few pedals in the past with no issues. However, having some issues with the Germanium Boost build.
When I plug it in, I'm hearing constant repeating static pops. When I turn down the volume on my guitar it starts to make a motorboating sound. Its really bizarre.
Here's everything I've done so far to alleviate issues:
1. Checked and resoldered all solder joints.
2. Rechecked the correct component values, including polarity on electrolytic capacitors and correct transistor placement in socket.
3. Tested continuity as best possible with all circuit traces and components.
4. Moved pedal to different areas to make sure it wasn't picking up outside interference.

I'm getting voltage readings at the transistors outputs as well. However, I don't have a correct reference as to what these should be.

Do I have a bad transistor?

Hi - welcome to the forum!

http://www.byocelectronics.com/board/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=52211

Please post some clear photos of your build to help us determine what might be causing the issue.

Have you adjusted the trim pot?

Have you tried the pedal alone, with no other pedals in the loop? With a battery?

Do you have any other transistors on hand that you can try? Any PNP transistor should "work".

_________________
MasterDelayer/Reverbrador/Ampaholic/TopJacker

Hey There Thanks for the reply. I have adjusted trim pot. It works but doesn't alleviate the popping or the motorboating.
Tried the pedal alone, with and without battery and power supply.
I don't have any other transistors unfortunately.

you can try this:

tug on the wires at their connections to the board. If any come out, resolder them. Some of the joints look a bit iffy.

Also, make sure the potentiometer has clearance and is not touching the component leads. If there is the chance of contact, put a piece of electrical tape or cardboard between them. Just something to insulate it a bit.

You also might want to try reseating the transistor and making sure the legs are in the proper socket holes.

You are very close though since you can get the effect to work.

_________________
The tone is in my hands?!
Email: nick@buildyourownclone.com