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DIY Stompboxes => Building your own stompbox => Topic started by: Torchy on April 28, 2005, 11:44:27 AM

Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: Torchy on April 28, 2005, 11:44:27 AM
Been a while since a new layout but here it is. This is the MXR Phase 45 using JC Maillet's mods. With a twist. Let me explain.

I laid out and built a stock Phase 45 on veroboard and it worked really well. Then I saw the threads from Mark Hammer etc about "Univibing" it via the caps. Reading further, JC Maillet had already done the cap mods, so I built that one. Result - horrendous pops when switching between Phase and Vibe. In a related thread, RG suggested using series caps with a switch shorting one cap out, and parallel caps using a 1meg bleed resistor. Tried it out and voila - no pops :).

MODS

1. Univibe/Phase switch.
2. LED "RATE" indicator.
3. External "BIAS" control.
4. External "MIX" control (Phase/Vibe and Vibrato)

This sounds awesome in Vibe mode, fairly slow speed, BIAS pot centred, with a touch of vibrato added via the MIX pot. Adjust the BIAS pot to get your sweet spot. Me and MartyMart both agree that a linear pot for speed may suit some better (log pot obviously bunches the range up at one end of the pot travel).


Ive laid this out as a complete project with layout, schem, mods and cap value explanation. The build as shown has been verified by both myself and MartyMart (thanks matey :)) and is DEFINITELY a keeper once you have sorted out the jfet matching. A quick way to do this is on JC Maillet's site (http://www.lynx.bc.ca/~jc/pedalsPhase45.html). Bear in mind this has a bias pot added so matching the fet's is a little easier. Thanks to all those mentioned.



(http://aronnelson.com/gallery/albums/album11/MXR_Phase_45.gif)
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: radio on April 28, 2005, 11:47:44 AM
Hi Torchy

Well these vero keep getting larger and larger :shock:

Do they ever stop growing?? :D

Thanks again!

JMErnzer
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: MartyMart on April 28, 2005, 12:21:46 PM
Just slotted mine into a 1590BB - no problem !  :D
Pots at top and rate LED/Switch just under, Jacks near bottom next to each side of the the 3DPDT switch and on/off LED just above switch !

Sounds really GORGEOUS  :D
I'm in "Pink Floyd" heaven .......

Marty.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: hilbi on April 28, 2005, 01:46:17 PM
Fantastic Torchy!

This is gonna be my next build!

Thanks again.
Title: .
Post by: petemoore on April 28, 2005, 01:55:31 PM
COOL !!!
 I had hoped for this, and there it is !!!
 I'll have to be tryin' this pretty soon.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: hilbi on April 29, 2005, 03:07:26 AM
Marty, do you have soundsamples of the phase 45?

I never heard a 45, i did own a script logo 90, so i'm very curious how the 45 sounds like. Also with the vibe mods.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: MartyMart on April 29, 2005, 03:24:44 AM
hilbi,
As the name suggests, its like "half" of the phase '90, so its a subtle swirl
very nice IMHO and some people think its quite close to a "univibe" tone.
With Torchy's version, its become a very "special" phaser.
There's the '45/Univibe and vibrato available !!
It sounds almost as good as Roger Mayers "VooDoo Vibe Jr" which would
set you back at least 200 bucks !!
I had two "real" '45's and sold them both for a LOT of money, this is way
better now .... :D

Hope that helps ?
Cheers,
Marty.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: hilbi on April 29, 2005, 03:57:34 AM
thanks marty!

I also found a sample on the home-wrecker site, I think it is an unmodified 45 and gives apretty good picture of the sound http://www.home-wrecker.com/phase45.mp3

Now i know what you mean with pink floyd heaven marty  :wink:

This is defenately gonna be my next build!
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: Processaurus on April 29, 2005, 07:47:37 AM
Thanks for putting together what looks like an easy to follow, straight ahead way to build this effect, I think alot of people may have looked at the schematic and seen it as too complex to perf up easily.  The univibe-ish mods may be too much to resist.  Gotta get into some vero
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: slacker on April 29, 2005, 08:08:03 AM
hi

I'm pretty new at all this so this is probably a stupid question but is it possible to make this circuit do tremolo as well as vibe/phaser.
I've been messing about with an idea for a vib/trem pedal like a Marshall VT1 . I've built something based on Tim E's Wobbletron which does both by switching the cap in and out of the circuit but it's quite noisy so I'd like to try using op amps instead.
Thanks in advance :)
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: RDV on April 29, 2005, 09:18:34 AM
Another Phase45 sample. (http://mysite.verizon.net/res0o2zg/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderfiles/phase45.mp3)

RDV
Title: .
Post by: petemoore on April 29, 2005, 10:12:31 AM
Very 'Pure' sounding clips !!!
 Gotta love Phasers... 8)
 I love my 4 stager phazers...it's a different sound, the 45 has something in the tone that the 4 stagers don't that is very appealing and pleasant to hear.
 Also note that great phazing sounds can be had with multiple stages at different sweep rates...IOW running one phazer into the next...the 45 is very good as the 1rst two separate LFO'd stages...Alone or added as a 'pre-phase' [term?]...to any other phaser.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: JT on April 29, 2005, 12:36:50 PM
Hey Marty can you post a PIC of your boxed 45?
Thanks
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: MartyMart on April 30, 2005, 02:55:03 PM
Quote from: JTHey Marty can you post a PIC of your boxed 45?
Thanks

Will do when its painted/decorated !
Its just "Plain Aluminium" at the moment !!

Marty.
Title: Pink Floyd sample =>RDV
Post by: radio on April 30, 2005, 04:58:11 PM
Howdy

RDV this sample would make Alan Parson proud

(tone enginer on "dark Side....")

Congrats

Respect JMErnzer
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: RCZ53 on May 01, 2005, 02:28:14 AM
That's really cool Torchy. I very much appreciate the cap switching diagrams ...makes it much easier to understand. Can you take a look at my "Ross Phaser Univibe" post from earlier today? I am trying to compute cap values. BTW what is the math on series caps? regards Roger
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: hilbi on May 03, 2005, 03:25:15 AM
just wanted to let you know that i started building the 45 yesterday.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: RCZ53 on May 06, 2005, 06:44:17 PM
Is there any advantage to using two SPDT switches instead of the DPDT for the cap change? i.e. more sounds? I've ordered my vero and components !!!!!! many thanks, Roger
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: JT on May 08, 2005, 12:54:59 PM
NEWBIE ALERT:  i don't see a Power supply or on/off switch in the layout or schem? how is it powered and does it use an on/off switch or does the effect engage when you plug in? I ordered most of the parts and populated the board and need helps with this
Thanks in advance!
Todd
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: Mihkel on May 08, 2005, 12:58:09 PM
The power is indeed switched on and off via a stereo input jack.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: troubledtom on May 08, 2005, 01:19:14 PM
lame question of the day :oops:  
can the trannies and ic's be subbed. i have all the rest of
the parts and was thinking of making a stereo unit. i almost
always play in stereo. i could use a 1 day distraction from
building my devices :roll: [need a break]
          thanx,
                - tom
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: troubledtom on May 08, 2005, 07:47:37 PM
does, that mean no? :?
i understand.......................................
           -tt
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: Torchy on May 08, 2005, 07:54:58 PM
Sorry, I dont check in here very often these days ... reasons reasons.

But, for the dual op-amp I tried a 4458 and a TL072 ok. For the JFETs I tried J201 (not so pronounced effect, a bit clipped) 2N3819 (awful) BF245B (not bad) but the 2N5457 worked best.  :wink:
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: bluesdevil on May 09, 2005, 01:03:32 AM
Quote from: TorchySorry, I dont check in here very often these days ... reasons reasons.

But, for the dual op-amp I tried a 4458 and a TL072 ok. For the JFETs I tried J201 (not so pronounced effect, a bit clipped) 2N3819 (awful) BF245B (not bad) but the 2N5457 worked best.  :wink:

Do you mean 2N5458? Because I think that is what's on your layout..... wanna make sure before I order a batch of the wrong ones!!! REALLY looking forward to tackling this one, maybe I won't need to do the EasyVibe after all.
Thanks for doing this one up stripboard style.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: smccusker on May 09, 2005, 05:26:35 AM
Hello next project.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: barret77 on May 09, 2005, 05:42:16 AM
sound sample anyone (from the univibed version mod) ?  :)
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: Torchy on May 09, 2005, 06:59:31 AM
Sorry, yes, typo, old-fingers-and-keyboard syndrome  :wink:

I think you could use the 5458's as well mind you  :oops:
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: smccusker on May 09, 2005, 10:46:35 PM
Actually, I have a couple of questions;
-Can any type of 5v1 zener diode be used in the circuit? My local store has a couple of different types: 1N751A, 1N5231B, 1N4733. the first two have a 400mw rating and the last one has a 1w rating.
-I can only find an NE5532P for the op-amp I assume this is the same thing, but can anyone verify that?
-After reading the faq and the link in this thread, I still dont really 'get' biasing the transistors, could someone please explain it to me in a simpler way?
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: tungngruv on May 09, 2005, 11:32:46 PM
Torchy and Marty..... after building this over Saturday and Sunday, I actually played it for a couple hours tonight. Really amazing. I do have one question though, my rate LED pulses when the effect is on or bypassed. Is this normal or do I need to take a closer look at my assembly job? Other than that, it works and sounds perfect, despite still not matching the trannies :lol:
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: robotboy on May 10, 2005, 10:33:36 AM
WOW! This looks and sounds awesome. Are the clips of a standard phase 45, or do they include the univibe mod? Either way, this is going to the top of my list of build projects. I have a couple of quick questions if anybody could help me out.

For the FET matching, the circuit will function with only 1 transistor socketed? Basically, it sounds like you just socket a FET and try to get it to phase along with the LED somewhere in the middle of the sweep on the bias pot?

Are S1A-A, S1A-P, S1B-A, and S1B-P all plugged into a single DPDT?

The mixer lets you dial in pitch-shifting, vibrato or chorusing? Does anybody have any more clips? I've been waiting for the right project worthy of that stripboard that's been sitting in my toolbox!
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: tungngruv on May 10, 2005, 12:36:12 PM
QuoteAre S1A-A, S1A-P, S1B-A, and S1B-P all plugged into a single DPDT?
Yes
QuoteFor the FET matching, the circuit will function with only 1 transistor socketed? Basically, it sounds like you just socket a FET and try to get it to phase along with the LED somewhere in the middle of the sweep on the bias pot?

I bought 10 from Small Bear just so I could play with a few to get a good match. After socketing the first two I grabbed, it worked fine. The bias control seems to make a difference on mine between all off and 12:00.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: dxm1 on May 10, 2005, 12:53:25 PM
Quote from: tungngruvTorchy and Marty..... after building this over Saturday and Sunday, I actually played it for a couple hours tonight. Really amazing. I do have one question though, my rate LED pulses when the effect is on or bypassed. Is this normal or do I need to take a closer look at my assembly job?

Why not switch the LED ground with your 3PDT bypass switch? It would then act as your "effect on" indicator.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: tungngruv on May 10, 2005, 12:57:36 PM
It's OK, I kind of like the way it is now and it is correct (I only use the DPDT, no LED's) (( with the stuff I'm building, you know when you turn it on)) :lol:
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: RCZ53 on May 19, 2005, 04:11:36 PM
I completed the project and it sounds good. A couple of notes, the mix control seems to only bring in the effected signal some where around the middle of the pots rotation (I used a 25k). Also the bias only works at full off (counterclockwise) Is this normal? I sorted through twelve 5458's to find two pair that sounded good.
It is a cool sound, very quiet, subtle effect. If there is anything to be done I would like to have a bit more intensity. Thanks Torchy, JC and all concerned for a well thought and coherent layout and design.
best regards,
Roger
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: blues123 on August 10, 2005, 07:47:56 PM
Hi Torchy,

This sounds great.
Sorry if i am being a bit thick, but where is the vero/strip board layout?

Thanks in advance
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: dr on August 10, 2005, 08:19:57 PM
....Torchy-I'm not able to get the picture to open-is there something I need to do?.....thanks!..............dr
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: dr on August 10, 2005, 08:26:10 PM
....Torchy-I'm not able to get the picture to open-is there something I need to do?.....thanks!..............dr
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: pbrommer on August 10, 2005, 10:44:49 PM
Torchy left awhile ago. PM me if you want the layout. Or email me at pbrommer1 AT hotmail DOT com (replace at with @ and dot with . )

Patrick
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: xshredx on August 11, 2005, 10:11:53 AM
mxr phase 45 vero-layout, thanks to torchy (http://www.xshredx.myipaska.com/effects%20layouts/Filters/MXR%20Phase%2045.gif)
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: blues123 on August 11, 2005, 10:20:27 AM
Thanks Torchy, xshredx, pbrommer and all for replying.

This looks like a must do project.

Thanks again
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: RicF on August 11, 2005, 04:44:33 PM
Thanks for resurrecting this thread. It's just what I've been looking for.
Title: [Veroboard] - MXR Phase 45 (Univibed)
Post by: Eb7+9 on August 11, 2005, 10:38:11 PM
Quote from: RCZ53... the mix control seems to only bring in the effected signal some where around the middle of the pots rotation (I used a 25k). Also the bias only works at full off (counterclockwise) Is this normal? I sorted through twelve 5458's to find two pair that sounded good ... very quiet, subtle effect. If there is anything to be done I would like to have a bit more intensity

yeah, it's normal that the mix brings in the (phase) effect at 1/2 rotation with a linear pot - this is the stock position where the mixing resistors between dry and wet outputs are equal ... you could wire a resistance of same value as the pot in series at the opposite end of the pot so that the rotation would do what I think you want it to - namely go evenly between phase and vibrato with no dead zone ...  that knob won't get played with much unless you want to bring out the vibrato side - a switch instead of a pot might work better/simpler/cheaper actually ... though it's nice to be able to set it exactly ...

Note: if the bias only works at full rotation then you either need a different Zener or a different pair of jFET's ... a quick fix is adding a 1n4148 signal diode or two in series  with the Zener to bring the reference voltage up by around .6 or .7 volts for each diode added ... use Ge diodes if the increment of one Si diode is too much ... if that leads you in the wrong direction then you need a lower voltage Zener for your jFET's ...

Ideally you want the bias to kick in somewhere near half-rotation so you can have a bit of play on either side allowing you to make the phase "average" go towards the bright or dark side ... again - that control allows to adjust the phase quality in a subtle way ... it just sets the vertical average of the cycling voltage ... if your bias adjustment took you to edge of your adjustment range it's possible that your jFET's won't go as deep as if the bias "peak" lies more in the middle of the bias sweep ...

~jc