Bumblebee Fuzz

From the vendor

Vintage fuzz on germanium transistors. Sustain, Tone, Bias (Balance) controls + added Level control (output level). True bypass. Power supply: battery 9 V or regulated mains adapter 9 VDC. The dimensions of the PCB 50 x 41 mm. Enclosure type: Hammond 1590B. Build notes: It is highly desirable to select transistors for leakage current and current gain. The technique for measuring the leakage current and gain of germanium transistors is detailed here: http://www.geofex.com/Article_Folders/ffselect.htm For Q1 and Q2, transistors with a gain of ≈ 65 and a leakage current of not more than 200μA should be selected, for Q3 - with a gain of ≈ 75 and a leakage current of 200 ... 300μA. Leakage current of germanium transistors can be measured using the circuit below. After applying voltage, wait 1-2 minutes until the arrow calms down. In this case, the transistor case should not be subjected to any temperature influences (heat from hands, a table lamp, etc.).