What software do you use?
For the blog and most etchable layouts, I use DIYLC with a bit of Photoshop to create the ground plane. For the fabricated boards in the store I use Eagle.
How do I scale the transfer image to print?
You don’t have to. I’ve created PDF files of every etchable layout prescaled so all you have to do is print. Unless otherwise specified, these can be found in the Transfer Image Library.
Are there drill templates?
Yes. For pretty much any layout with board mounted pots there is a template that can be found in the Drilling Templates folder.
How do I wire up the rest of the pedal?
Consult the General Layout Notes page. This shows pot lug and switch lug numbering conventions, how to wire up a 3PDT footswitch, on/off indicator LED, input and output jacks, and the DC power jack.
What does the A, B, C prefix mean for potentiometer values?
These letters indicated the taper of the potentiometer. A = logarithmic, B = linear, and C = reverse log. Not having the correct taper pot shouldn’t keep a circuit from working. However, using the wrong taper can make it harder to control. And note that the tapers listed in the layouts are either what was used in original production pedals, or just suggestions. If you aren’t satisfied with the range of control of a certain pot, experiment with other tapers.
What’s your commercial use policy?
Boards purchased in the store can be used for small commercial runs (~5-10 pedals). If you are a commercial builder and want to use a design for larger runs, please contact me for licensing details and board personalization. For layouts on the blog: if you’re making one-offs for friends and bandmates, that’s fine and encouraged. But if you’re wanting to make a batch of Tube Screamer clones (or any other circuit on the blog) to sell on Reverb, Ebay, or locally, please contact me for licensing details.