TLDR; You can read the whole story here (https://medium.com/@swirl.fx.pedals)
Here's the final result of my VFE Mega Pedal
(https://preview.ibb.co/m0U8Xo/ED786_AF8_2_A86_4_FD2_9_F65_DEEFB43_ACD4_D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hPRBk8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/i8GoXo/49_D86_DE6_DF8_F_448_A_A87_C_3195606_E5_A01.jpg) (https://ibb.co/iGzmJT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/eSSj58/5_EE4_E0_DE_07_DD_4_AA5_A708_3_A77_EE21_A86_D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k7x6JT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/d40FCo/6_AAD7075_3030_4_D3_D_976_B_6_F508_CFA32_CB.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fcboXo)
(https://preview.ibb.co/h6Usso/06_F13387_AAC7_47_B8_A53_A_5_EDD84_B154_A3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fRAMk8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/bDAnQ8/A8817_E20_C32_A_4830_8764_AA4_D0_F31_F0_C3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hcEE58)
(https://preview.ibb.co/j5woXo/8_A209_DF9_07_F2_4828_B85_E_987_ED40_A6_A31.jpg) (https://ibb.co/eCiDyT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/eVYrk8/CA2_E3_A6_A_9_DBE_4_B9_B_938_B_463_DC5_C77_A76.jpg) (https://ibb.co/g38P58)
(https://preview.ibb.co/bJabJT/7_C1125_A5_BAA2_46_A0_B83_B_7_B5305_C64423.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hhe3yT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/hhQMk8/A0_A65641_691_C_43_A5_B669_388_B6_D56_C710.jpg) (https://ibb.co/niMu58)
(https://preview.ibb.co/c52qdT/4_D71_F2_D9_2_EBA_4592_82_DC_A8_A15170_D1_A8.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cDknQ8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/iaRNso/7_F207484_AF97_481_E_BE5_F_3_EE542_A915_C1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jkt2so)
I can't help you with any of your questions. But I salute you in your effort. That is quite the ambitious build. I wonder how much it will weigh?
No worries, I am guessing the weight will be around 10-15 pounds (just a blind guess).
Weight and size is always the first thing I think of. Driving in paris sucks so I have to put all my pedals in a bookbag and take the subway. Anyway good luck. You planning to wait for all of these vfe pedals to be released to start?
Well, I will combine some of parts from Brian. Plus, there are some fuzz pedals on the board which Brian is not going to release (or at least I'll say unplanned for him). I'll do a head start. As always, right now I am trying to find where I can get the PCB fabricated nicely. I've seen elecrow and advanced circuits. I'll try to contact elecrow first, rather than go with OSHPark. The reason is I don't want to have three same PCB's at one order. Plus, comparing the cost I am betting the most expensive build I've ever made. I don't mind for how heavy it's going to be. It's the matter of the fun building it.
I had entertained the idea of making a mini mega pedal (single row) by using individual 1590b cases and leaving off the input/output jacks and routing a hardwired disconnect through a hollow bolt across the input to output holes, and using a spacer of some sort to compensate for the cases side slope.
I have 4 vfe pedals on my board right now and if I turn on 2 or more and one has a charge pump, I get ungodly amounts of noise so that has deterred me somewhat, so watch out for that. (Merman>Enterprise>AlphaDog>Triplet)
That is the reason he has an extra EQ on the switching board. Basically, the Mega pedal will utilize the Mega Board EAGLE file. The schematic doesn't give much info but the Layout has a buffer and one huge PIC switching which I am still tracing out. I am working on populating the GPIO pinouts from the PIC to I/O of the board. Once that task is completed then I can start ordering and planning the PCB.
After careful planning and continuing the story plus VFE fever, I decided to go with this Mega pedal chain:
1. Merman - OSHPark
2. Alpha Dog - MBP
3. Pale Horse -MBP
4. Triplet - MBP
5. Blues King - MBP
6. Bumble Bee - OSHPark
7. Rocket EQ - OSHPark
8. The Scream - MBP
9. Mini Mu - OSHPark
10. Tractor Beam - MBP
11. Choral Reef - MBP
12. Old - School - MBP
13. Mobius Strip - MBP
14. White Horse - MBP
15. Focus - OSHPark
16. Blueprint - MBP
17. Yodeler - OSHPark
18. Fiery Red Horse - Ralfg
Quite different than the real Mega Pedal but I challenged myself to build something different. Also, I plan to put all the modulation on the fx loop, not just daisy chained it. I figured that I might print 9x2 board switchers instead just run 18 mega board.
Update:
11 boards acquired, 3 boards in the fab and 4 more boards to go. Getting close!
Just got the latest board from MBP and started to build up Alpha Dog, White Horse, Pale Horse, and Merman
I tend to take the build steps slower and take a more careful read. Still waiting for the Blueprint-MBP to released, Bumblebee, Mini Mu and Rocket EQ.
I got an extra fiery red horse from an osh park run I did a while back that you are welcome to.
Quote from: Ralfg on April 09, 2018, 07:32:23 PM
I got an extra fiery red horse from an osh park run I did a while back that you are welcome to.
Wow, nice. I am sending you a PM!
Okay, folks, Nigel at Honey Bayes did a huge favor for me in terms recreating this $4k pedal (I didn't know it costs much).
He took one picture and bravely opened his VFE Mega Pedal.
Attached is the snippet of his VFE Mega Pedal. Now, what do you guys think? Plus, there is a TAP tempo.
Quote from: fair.child on April 09, 2018, 11:39:44 PM
Okay, folks, Nigel at Honey Bayes did a huge favor for me in terms recreating this $4k pedal (I didn't know it costs much).
He took one picture and bravely opened his VFE Mega Pedal.
Attached is the snippet of his VFE Mega Pedal. Now, what do you guys think? Plus, there is a TAP tempo.
Um, that big DSP processor board has an electro harmonix logo on it. Is this perhaps a different multi pedal?
Quote from: somnif on April 10, 2018, 12:44:25 AM
Quote from: fair.child on April 09, 2018, 11:39:44 PM
Okay, folks, Nigel at Honey Bayes did a huge favor for me in terms recreating this $4k pedal (I didn't know it costs much).
He took one picture and bravely opened his VFE Mega Pedal.
Attached is the snippet of his VFE Mega Pedal. Now, what do you guys think? Plus, there is a TAP tempo.
Um, that big DSP processor board has an electro harmonix logo on it. Is this perhaps a different multi pedal?
I am highly doubt it. However, thank you for catching that. I even didn't see that EHX logo. The picture is not in high res from Nigel. He said that "the switching system was not implemented as it does render the unit somewhat difficult to navigate, particularly when using it as a performance tool. In the studio it's great, particularly the inclusion of the patchbay on the back, and visually, it's just looks amazing."
That quote implies that Peter didn't finish up the PIC switching system instead using 12F509 for controlling each of the effect. I am exploring now and thinking an Arduino could be potential solution for this switching. Otherwise, I will try to utilize the 12F509 from Brian and add a toggle switch controlling the signal line. I don't know yet and I am figuring it out as I keep build them.
Update Today:
Most of the parts are populated and ordered extra resistors from Mouser. That 14.3k and 1.43k are the real pain, though it says I can use 1.5k or 15k. I will stick with the real values. I am also waiting for my Blueprint to come. Haven't heard anything back from OSHPark, hopefully in next day or two, I'll hear about Bumblebee, Mini Mu, and Rocket EQ.
(http://preview.ibb.co/ff29HH/IMG_4654.jpg) (http://ibb.co/gLMfPx)
Quote from: fair.child on April 11, 2018, 10:05:03 PM
Most of the parts are populated and ordered extra resistors from Mouser. That 14.3k and 1.43k are the real pain, though it says I can use 1.5k or 15k. I will stick with the real values. I am also waiting for my Blueprint to come. Haven't heard anything back from OSHPark, hopefully in next day or two, I'll hear about Bumblebee, Mini Mu, and Rocket EQ.
Buy a bag or two of carbon film resistors, and meter them, then pick the closest to the value you want :) (CF have a bigger range than MF.)
Thanks, alanp. However, I just did order through Mouser. My intention was trying to use all my leftover parts. It seems it's going that direction. I ran out of 100nF, 10nF, 22nF, 4n7, and others. Finally, the build that costs me running out of caps, resistors, and diodes. My 1N5817 is going to be out soon and 1N4148 is already out. I am quite happy with the process.
Quote from: fair.child on April 09, 2018, 11:39:44 PM
Okay, folks, Nigel at Honey Bayes did a huge favor for me in terms recreating this $4k pedal (I didn't know it costs much).
He took one picture and bravely opened his VFE Mega Pedal.
Attached is the snippet of his VFE Mega Pedal. Now, what do you guys think? Plus, there is a TAP tempo.
Hmm.. To me it looks very different from the usual VFE boards and it seems unlikely to me that Peter would redesign all the pcbs. Plus, he always used the hatched GND planed, which I can't spot here. What bugs me most is the dual pot and the small pcb in the front that seems to just dangle around. I wonder where those are intended to go. Just my two cents. Good luck with your build!
Yep... there is zero chance that is a pic of the inside of a VFE mega pedal. It's from the VFE Facebook page... #notaVFEpedal
Well, either it's true or not, at least Nigel tried to give an useful pointer about the switching. I think the most challenging part is the switching. I am still working on the latch system using the PIC and swapping around with Arduino as well. I can envision this is going to be an amazing build.
Bumblebee, Rocket EQ, and Mini Mu have just done from the fab. Going to plan for the next step for the rest of the pedals. Focus and Yodeler might be the great candidates.
Update. I got the Yodeler sent to the fab OSHPark. As usual, set of 3 and I got one extra, so let me know if anyone is interested.
ONLY One Left...... which it's a Focus board. Please MBP, next development be the Focus. Please, Brian if you happen to read this.
(http://m.memegen.com/pf0lhk.jpg)
Quote from: Aentons on April 12, 2018, 12:49:45 PM
Yep... there is zero chance that is a pic of the inside of a VFE mega pedal. It's from the VFE Facebook page... #notaVFEpedal
Wow, thanks Aentons for confirming the post. I thought Nigel was legit. That was mind opening post.
You know, now I'm wondering what Peter was making with that mashup of EHX boards in a big box :o
Perhaps he was trying his hand at actually making that bagpipe pedal from April Fools.... hmmmm....
No prob... I might be interested in that extra Yodeler. I'll send you a PM.
I thought I remembered seeing a picture or video of the inside of a VFE mega pedal somewhere in the vast expanse of the internet. I could be wrong but I think I recall the bottom foot switch section being basically empty except for the switch and wires coming down from the top part. I'll try to recall where it was.
I also just realized the Megaboard's Switching set up is a board in the Patreon pile.
Good lord its terrifying
(https://i.imgur.com/udWGNZn.png)
(how on earth did I miss this thing)
Oh and apparently it didn't actually work: "This is the switching board used for the massive, 18-effect MEGAPEDAL giveaway. We were never able to get the master switching controller working, and it is no longer compatible with the current program in the 12F509 MCU." ...now I want to know what madness they DID end up going with.
Quote from: somnif on April 12, 2018, 06:44:56 PM
I also just realized the Megaboard's Switching set up is a board in the Patreon pile.
Good lord its terrifying
(https://i.imgur.com/udWGNZn.png)
(how on earth did I miss this thing)
Oh and apparently it didn't actually work: "This is the switching board used for the massive, 18-effect MEGAPEDAL giveaway. We were never able to get the master switching controller working, and it is no longer compatible with the current program in the 12F509 MCU." ...now I want to know what madness they DID end up going with.
That board costs around $144 on OSHPark. Freaking expensive and it's a gamble to make it work. I just followed the design pattern of the switch. Start it over is way much easier than print this board. However, I learned one thing from this Mega Pedal. Apparently, the TSB switch can be reusable. The idea is to divide the 18 boards by two. So, technically it's 9x2.
I really want to do YouTube video and document my progress/process of thought. It might be beneficial in the long run if anyone wants to recreate this gigantic pedal.
Mega Pedal that I found just only two. One is the demo (cars decal/printed) and another one is the Kroak. If anyone can find the others, that would make this journey become interesting.
Quote from: Aentons on April 12, 2018, 06:21:48 PM
No prob... I might be interested in that extra Yodeler. I'll send you a PM.
I thought I remembered seeing a picture or video of the inside of a VFE mega pedal somewhere in the vast expanse of the internet. I could be wrong but I think I recall the bottom foot switch section being basically empty except for the switch and wires coming down from the top part. I'll try to recall where it was.
To be honest, I really like Yodeler more than Springboard. I know this build will contain Blueprint and Mobius Strip which they are cool. However, I just don't feel that Springboard will be a good fit for my needs. I want something that can run delay+verb at the same time. Thanks to Peter, VFE does have Yodeler.
So far Somnif and you are in the pool for Yodeler. I also got a recommendation from somnif to remove layer 2 and layer 15 from the EAGLE board.
Quote from: fair.child on April 12, 2018, 07:40:28 PM
I also got a recommendation from somnif to remove layer 2 and layer 15 from the EAGLE board.
For those wondering why: Some VFE .brd files process as 4-layer on OSHPark. Layers 2 and 15 are blank, empty data, but OSHPark considers them as valid layers for some incomprehensible reason and doubles the price of the fab. Removing those two layers changes nothing (as far as I could tell, and I dug deep) and fixes OSHParks automated brain process.
I tried to find more information about Mega Pedal. Based on the webarchive of vfepedals.com, here is what I can find.
The MEGAPEDAL was first conceived as a promotional giveaway, which we gave away to one lucky customer in July 2012. It contains 18 VFE effects, input/output buffers, tap tempo delay, a full patchbay on the back, and one seriously sweet graphic. We plan to upgrade it with programmable switching very soon (this is included with any future orders). After several requests, we decided to make the MEGAPEDAL available for purchase. We have the parts to only build a few of these. You can choose to have the stock version (see features tab for detailed info), or customize the color/knobs/graphic/effects to your specifications.
The MEGAPEDAL takes a very, very long time to build. It involves many steps, some of which must be custom done by our enclosure supplier. Because of this, it will likely take 3-5 months to build. We will keep you updated with every step of the process. Pricing ranges from $3500-$5000, depending on the options chosen. Please E-mail us at sales@vfepedals.com to get more information or an exact quote.
MegaPEDAL takes a very, very long time to build which it is a true statement. Careful planning, scratching head, and try to make everything work. Though it takes a long time to build, I do really enjoy the build. Just don't know why it keeps making me excited.
The only problem is....wife is not happy I am spending too much time on soldering... she has been asking me to sleep early, not late. 8) 8) 8)
The journey continues ;D ;D ;D. I have calculated my cost. So far, I have spent $982.54 for the build. Enclosures are coming and extra parts (Mouser, Smallbear, BLMS, and Tayda). Just got Mini Mu, Rocket EQ, and Bumblebee boards from OSHPark today.
(http://preview.ibb.co/npDTMn/IMG_4685.jpg) (http://ibb.co/k9vxE7)
Place them in the plastic bags so I can easily manage the builds.
(http://preview.ibb.co/jouqZ7/IMG_4688.jpg) (http://ibb.co/eeFKSS)
Extra board from OSHPark
(http://preview.ibb.co/jj7zSS/IMG_4689.jpg) (http://ibb.co/ezcNgn)
I plan to populate Mini Mu, Rocket EQ, and Bumblebee this weekend.
Quote from: fair.child on March 12, 2018, 11:55:01 PM
The question I do have. There is a buffer coming into the pedal and as well KNOWN issue with the PIC/switching programming. What are those known issues with the switching? I am guessing the programming should be similar to the Clickless True Bypass Relay by Coda on the PIC18F44K20. Also, my thought, the programming would be dedicated to controlling the patch bay.
The enclosure could be 1456WL3WHBU (15 deg slope) OR 1456WK4WHBU (30 deg slope)
The switching MCU used on the Megapedal builds (yes, there were two of them) used a slightly different pinout & program than what I've been using the past few years. The schematic/board file would need some updating to work with any MCUs sold on madbeanpedals. Here's a link to the current pinout:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/rpd8u9bbyt7f4xy/MCUpinout.png (https://www.dropbox.com/s/rpd8u9bbyt7f4xy/MCUpinout.png)
The original plan on the Megapedal was to create a programmable switching system, but we weren't able to get that part fully working. On the two builds I did, I simply omitted the massive PIC controller and wired the switches directly to the controllers.
I assume you have the Eagle schematic & board files for this build. You can always go in and modify the switching section to match the existing pinout. With the way the circuit is setup, you would want to connect the J175 (soft switching) and BS170 (LED switching) to LO. It's counterintuitive, but both are setup to turn "on" when that pin is at 0V.
As for the enclosure, you definitely want the 15-degree slope. That's what I used.
Quote from: fair.child on April 09, 2018, 11:39:44 PM
Okay, folks, Nigel at Honey Bayes did a huge favor for me in terms recreating this $4k pedal (I didn't know it costs much).
He took one picture and bravely opened his VFE Mega Pedal.
Attached is the snippet of his VFE Mega Pedal. Now, what do you guys think? Plus, there is a TAP tempo.
This picture is definitely not the Megapedal I built for Nigel Honney-Bayes. That's my original Megapedal, which I started before VFE Pedals existed. I re-housed and modded several digital effects into one box, including a Roland MIDI foot controller.
Thanks for adding those comments Peter! And my continuing best wishes to you for the time and effort you spend training students at IDEA High School.
The master has spoken! 8) I am still struggling with the PIC. I might need to seek different path for the switching. Thanks, Peter for pointing things out. It definitely helps.
The journey continues...
Today, I got a chance to complete the drilling jig and drilled the enclosure.
The result..... the enclosure is a tight fight for 18 pedals
(https://preview.ibb.co/ecMt9H/1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hap23c)
I am still waiting for my Focus board and parts from Smallbear before I can finalize the main board leftovers. The switching board is done and going to be installed soon.
(https://preview.ibb.co/dj6RUH/2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/je3jGx)
I was so happy when the drilling finally finished. It was tedious.. very....
(https://preview.ibb.co/hORh3c/4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/czMFOc)
I had an idea to put together a jig. I use Poplar board from Home Depot and drilled it
(https://preview.ibb.co/jTRh3c/5.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kFiUic)
Everything is a tight fight and there is only a small room for error.
(https://preview.ibb.co/kkhY9H/6.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mHJ6UH)
I created the drawing template from Hammond STP file and used the MBP VFE template to figure out for 18 pedals
(https://preview.ibb.co/jWpD9H/7.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cvZPGx)
Also, I did a pre-layout the Hammond case first before I go and drill the enclosure.
(https://preview.ibb.co/hDhBwx/8.jpg) (https://ibb.co/goqaOc)
I can't screw the pots using the Poplar board but I got a pretty decent measurement.
(https://preview.ibb.co/chg4Gx/9.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mpWRUH)
Like I said, it's a tight fit and some 9mm pots aren't lined up properly. I might wiggle the space a bit.
(https://preview.ibb.co/dj6RUH/2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/je3jGx)
Whaaaaa!?
What is the reverb board?
It's the Yodeler. I do have one last Yodeler board left for sale. I put there as an extra for a measurement only while I am waiting for my Focus board from OSHPark to arrive.
Quote from: Zigcat on April 28, 2018, 11:25:48 PM
Whaaaaa!?
Am I an overachiever? Lol! 18 boards fella, 18 boards!
Man you're insane!!
Do all the boards work already?
Quote from: Boba7 on April 29, 2018, 01:43:52 AM
Man you're insane!!
Do all the boards work already?
I have jumpered them. Alpha Dog, Merman, Pale Horse, Choral Reef are verified working. I am too tired to test the rest, so I assume they work if one of them needs debug then I'll isolate the problem.
Trust me, you won't believe what you'll see next for the switching. It's going to be exciting and I tend to slow down a bit to enjoy the build process.
That is WAY too much work. Nicely done though, it looks like it's coming together very nicely.
If you use a tapered reamer you can open up the holes just enough to give you a bit more room to play with without screwing up either the finish or the hole size. Use a handheld one and use light pressure and check as you go. It's saved my butt more times than I can count.
I used the tapered reamer to clean up the holes. I still need to give a little room for 9mm pots. I am a true sucker at drilling 9mm. Fortunately, it come so together with my drill template/jig I created.
The only problem now is the artwork.
You are verifiably insane my friend!
How are you going to power that beast?
That is very excellent question. I'll add 5 separate D.C. Outputs for fx clusters. I know it's not the prettiest way to do it. Peter Mega Pedal only had one D.C. Out for all the chains. My approach is different. Each of the D.C. Output will have one regulated input.
Wow! That is awesome... quite an effort. You got a name for it yet?
Quote from: Aentons on April 29, 2018, 02:43:59 PM
Wow! That is awesome... quite an effort. You got a name for it yet?
No, I don't have a name for it. However, I ordered the tap tempo form UK Electronics and going to incorporate that for this board.
Which Tap Tempo is it? If it's for the 2399s then you should use a Taprecise. You could get a couple of those 9v multi tap transformers. AND aren't there different requirements like split rail and 18 volts on some of the VFE pedals?
Name it Medusa.
In Greek mythology, Medusa was a monster, a Gorgon, generally described as a winged human female with living venomous snakes in place of hair. Gazers upon her face would turn to stone. Wikipedia
Children: Pegasus and Chrysaor
Quote from: blearyeyes on April 29, 2018, 07:45:21 PM
Which Tap Tempo is it? If it's for the 2399s then you should use a Taprecise. You could get a couple of those 9v multi tap transformers. AND aren't there different requirements like split rail and 18 volts on some of the VFE pedals?
That is correct. I will still use the Original Switching Boards. The enclosure is big enough to fit all of them. I will have the Taprecise. However I am betting since I have created a separate Loop/ cluster system (Updated on Page 1), it will be hard enough to fit the pots.
The Tap Tempo is from uk-electronics.
http://uk-electronic.de/onlineshop/product_info.php?products_id=3099&osCsid=2b6b24208b1491bd2c91eee2d2546025
Quote from: fair.child on April 29, 2018, 08:10:10 PM
Quote from: blearyeyes on April 29, 2018, 07:45:21 PM
Which Tap Tempo is it? If it's for the 2399s then you should use a Taprecise. You could get a couple of those 9v multi tap transformers. AND aren't there different requirements like split rail and 18 volts on some of the VFE pedals?
That is correct. I will still use the Original Switching Boards. The enclosure is big enough to fit all of them. I will have the Taprecise. However I am betting since I have created a separate Loop/ cluster system (Updated on Page 1), it will be hard enough to fit the pots.
The Tap Tempo is from uk-electronics.
http://uk-electronic.de/onlineshop/product_info.php?products_id=3099&osCsid=2b6b24208b1491bd2c91eee2d2546025
NICE! Sparks will fly!
Quote from: blearyeyes on April 29, 2018, 07:47:25 PM
Name it Medusa.
In Greek mythology, Medusa was a monster, a Gorgon, generally described as a winged human female with living venomous snakes in place of hair. Gazers upon her face would turn to stone. Wikipedia
Children: Pegasus and Chrysaor
That is a great name. I'll need the idea how to put the artwork. It's really difficult for me to create the 18 artworks that have a personality. Doodle might be a choice.
Here's the way to hook up the tap tempo. Hasn't proven yet but I got the logic behind it.
There is a lot of explanation about how to wire up the board. I believe the marked TAP on the board to be jumpered. This is the pin out of the 10k rails. It turns out it works as lead points, just like connecting between the main and switching board. There is a label A on the main board which I have no idea of what it is.
(https://preview.ibb.co/bESK1x/tap.jpg) (https://ibb.co/finK1x)
Epic! I just saw this... very very cool and what a challenge! Will be interesting to watch, thanks for documenting!
Thank you! For anyone who bought the extra boards from me, the build doc can be found here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PmQSM02STR9a0tEjo09l1lV4eaKDxNfRWHEwPeeka1Y/edit
This is a living document and I believe Bumblebee and Focus will be supported through MBP. I am just giving you guys all a head start
Finally, after long hours of planning and errors have been made, I finally came this far.
The graphic arts made by Photoshop and printed using LaserJet printer @Office depot using Waterslide decal.
(https://preview.ibb.co/f11Gy8/IMG_4769.jpg) (https://ibb.co/dMikrT)
I did the labeling with the waterslide as well. The base color paint for the pedals are Krylon/Rustoleum/ACE Enamel
(https://preview.ibb.co/miqWWT/IMG_4771.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nFR5rT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/hkBGy8/IMG_4772.jpg) (https://ibb.co/iJnpJ8)
I cropped the 20"x6.5" long. It ended up using 3 sets of the waterslide paper.
(https://preview.ibb.co/c92pJ8/IMG_4773.jpg) (https://ibb.co/c1KrWT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/hvJkrT/IMG_4774.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kPdkrT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/h5Lby8/IMG_4775.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fQ15rT)
I am going to spray it again with the MinWax Polyurethane after the label dries. After that, I go with the wiring. I experienced "honeycomb" paint several times. This is the reason I suck at painting (to be honest) and I always keep redoing it (sanding/primer/etc) again and again.
I was so frustrated but at the end, I am happy where I am at now. Hopefully, it won't get me honeycomb issues after the Polyurethane.
Beam me up Scotty! Very cool, there's certainly a ton of planning in this...
Best of luck with polyurethane! Hope it all goes well!
Will you label the knobs?
Quote from: cooder on May 18, 2018, 10:05:45 PM
Beam me up Scotty! Very cool, there's certainly a ton of planning in this...
Best of luck with polyurethane! Hope it all goes well!
Will you label the knobs?
I will ask my wife to hand write it with Sharpie. It has been too long for the enclosure and spent so much time on it. I really want to put 18 boards together soon.
Nice job with the layout and the decals. It looks great! Are you going to use the same style knobs for all of the effects for consistency? Or will you use different knobs to better separate the effects to match your blocking in the design?
Quote from: zgrav on May 19, 2018, 07:09:21 AM
Nice job with the layout and the decals. It looks great! Are you going to use the same style knobs for all of the effects for consistency? Or will you use different knobs to better separate the effects to match your blocking in the design?
Thank you. It took a lot of effort to do the decal. I am going to use different knobs just to make it easier to recognize.
Did you seriously successfully apply full sheet sized decals? :o
I can just barely succeed at doing 1590B sized decals!
Amazing work!
Quote from: EBK on May 19, 2018, 02:29:24 PM
Did you seriously successfully apply full sheet sized decals? :o
I can just barely succeed at doing 1590B sized decals!
Amazing work!
Yes, I did. I use this product from Sunnyscopa.
https://www.amazon.com/Sunnyscopa-Laser-Decal-Standard-sheets/dp/B076VFHV1F/ref=pd_bxgy_229_img_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B076VFHV1F&pd_rd_r=TBHCREBRZP7N13CCTXD6&pd_rd_w=bhMHM&pd_rd_wg=rxdwX&psc=1&refRID=TBHCREBRZP7N13CCTXD6
I cropped the image and trimmed the images precisely over three sheets of the decal. I tried this method three times. The reason I did three times because I was impatient to do waterslide without noticing the base paint was messed up by the painter's tape.
Redo it second times, didn't like the result and got the best result at the third. Wife was mad because I spent all night long just to paint, sand, etc.
While I am writing this, I am also in the process putting the main boards first then do the switching board. I'll post more pictures soon.
hahaha....so cool
subscribed!
Major Updates:
1. I am close to complete the project!!
(http://preview.ibb.co/mzub38/IMG_4787.jpg) (http://ibb.co/jRJ3i8)
(http://preview.ibb.co/eTgOi8/IMG_4788.jpg) (http://ibb.co/gsZyGT)
2. Here's how it looks like for the wiring. I used blu-tac to stack the control boards. One thing I need to tell you, it was a tedious work. Not fun at all. The populating main board was fun.
(http://preview.ibb.co/d0jb38/IMG_4786.jpg) (http://ibb.co/bS83i8)
3. I added the TAP-TEMPO for Blueprint. Finally, I got everything hooked up for the tap tempo (Thanks to Aentons for the pictures).
Overall, I am extremely happy where I am at. Very close, folks, very close! The next step is wiring the Ground/VDD bus. After that, I'll move to the testing each of the board functionality which is finger-crossed.
Monster....! You'll need a pilot licence and great toe control for it... :o
Alright,
So it's up and I have been testing each of them through the looper.
(http://preview.ibb.co/fQ02Fo/IMG_4803.jpg) (http://ibb.co/mLwL1T)
Here's the gutshot on the inside
(http://preview.ibb.co/h4Tdo8/IMG_4800.jpg) (http://ibb.co/b9WL1T)
The wiring is complete spaghetti.
My thoughts came to sweet and sour fruition. Here's the report.
1. I gotta debug White Horse, Bumblebee, Mini Mu, Rocket EQ, Triplet, and Blueprint.
If you guys have any idea in terms of debugging, please help me out.
White Horse: Whining and oscillating with the sustain knob turns up.
Bumblebee: Auto Swell doesn't work
Rocket EQ: The boost seems to be dead and no output when the boost is all the way up.
Mini Mu: No output and wah oscillating in the background.
Triplet: The Octave all the way causes whining and squealing noises like White Horse.
Blueprint: No delay, although the tap tempo works (verified switch tapping and LED blinking).
2. All the OD/Dist/Fuzz work (Pale Horse, Blues King, Merman, Scream, Alpha Dog, Focus, Fiery Red), Reverb/Delay work (Mobius Strip/Yodeler- nicely done), Modulation (Tractor Beam, Choral Reef, and Old School) work.
3. All the switching works nicely. I am thinking upgrading to 1776 Effects relay switch instead 3PDT.
Once I figured out the issues of those 6 pedals, then the VFE Mega Pedal is alive!
This is pure madness.
Awesome and epic madness pure.
I love the 1776 relay switching good call there.
Best of luck finding the last bugs!
Thanks all for you guys support. I've found the culprit for the White Horse. It was the BS170 on the clipping section. I pulled that off and changed to socket. Replaced them with 1N914 like Timmy. Voila! It works nicely.
(https://preview.ibb.co/hu5sGT/IMG_4805.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fMUKwT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/b4mMAo/IMG_4806.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gTroqo)
(https://preview.ibb.co/dg9xi8/IMG_4809.jpg) (https://ibb.co/iDwMAo)
Going move up to Bumblebee soon.
Okay folks, quick update!
Triplet works now. The culprit was the Ge Diodes I got from evilBay. I swapped with 1N270 and 1N34A and everything works nicely.
Rocket EQ works as well. It's a very nice Parametric EQ Pedal. I can get a wah-type of picking (think like chicken picking style/Richie Kotzen/Guthrie Govan) style with this pedal. The culprit was the dual-gang filter pot. The lugs need to be soldered properly both at the top and the bottom. Re-flowed the solder joints and voila! works nicely.
Still having the problem:
Bumblebee- I can't figure why the reason I never got the swell works. Also, I created another issue. The Volume doesn't work. I might need the closer look at the schematic level and try to debug it from there. What bothers me a lot the trigger for the swell doesn't work. This bothers me a lot. Reflowed, cleaned with alcohol, and Dexoit, it still doesn't work. I suspected I wired the Optocoupler wrong but it didn't. I will debug from the voltage reading and scope next. There are some transistors need to be voltage checked as well. I swapped the 2N5457 with the 2N5952 and flipped it. The Vgs for 2N5952 I am using is 1.47V which it's still within recommended ambitious range from Peter.
The mini-mu - a similar case with Bumblebee. I haven't spent much more time on this instead I really want to focus on Bumblebee.
Worst case, I just created OSHPark batch for these two pedals. I planned to rebuild it again and do some tuning with the JFET.
I haven't touched the Blueprint yet but for what I am happy the Tap Tempo from UK Elec works controlling the Time Potentiometer of the Blueprint. The issue with the Blueprint is I got the signal but no delay. I had tried to swap the PT2399 and still no luck. My next guess probably is going to be go check the voltages.
Couple pictures of debugging! I finally got the Mini-Mu working. The problem was the chain after White Horse. The White horse itself has its own independent gain and when I turned everything up they become noisy and whining everywhere.
I decided to rewire the I/O for the Mini-Mu. I put it in Send/Return with Delay/Reverb. This solves the problem and helps to get better sounding.
The only things left are Bumblebee and Blueprint. Very close!
(https://preview.ibb.co/jSBDt8/IMG_4822.jpg) (https://ibb.co/m0nmD8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/fRSmD8/IMG_4823.jpg) (https://ibb.co/dcha6T)
(https://preview.ibb.co/nCOF6T/IMG_4824.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kd4zY8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/dhAHLo/IMG_4825.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mK9oRT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/eWy40o/IMG_4826.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ib9Bfo)
(https://preview.ibb.co/ju56D8/IMG_4827.jpg) (https://ibb.co/bZGDt8)
I had the same issue with the Blueprint and it ended up being the back of a pot touching a trace, given all the sockets (and long leads) underneath. I generally don't use plastic caps on the back of my pots but it would have saved me here.
BP is nothing crazy special given all the choices we have around here but definitely a nice pedal.
I have no idea how you have the patience to put this beast together but again, very nicely done.
Quote from: gordo on May 26, 2018, 04:46:25 PM
I had the same issue with the Blueprint and it ended up being the back of a pot touching a trace, given all the sockets (and long leads) underneath. I generally don't use plastic caps on the back of my pots but it would have saved me here.
BP is nothing crazy special given all the choices we have around here but definitely a nice pedal.
I have no idea how you have the patience to put this beast together but again, very nicely done.
Okay, it is working now WITHOUT the tap tempo. I reverted back to the non-tap tempo version. I am debugging to board level now to verify the signal chain flows correctly. It seems the JUMP for connecting the TAP and 1K needs to be jumpered. I am verifying this now.
Alright, Tap Tempo works. However, it needs a real modification on the Time Pot. I can't use the JUMP and TAP silk-screen.
Here's what I've done for the tap tempo.
1) Build the Blueprint based on MBP direction (JUMP silk screen pads need to be jumpered). Leave the TAP tempo alone.
2) The tap tempo from UK Electronics works by manipulating the Pin 3 and Pin 2 of the Time pot. Also, the connection of Pin 6 of PT2399 can be jumpered from the JUMP pad near with the 0.1uF MLCC PWR cap
3) The 5V and GND can be connected on the 10K rails (on the top of the 22p). The second pin of the rails from the left is the GND and the third pin is the 5V. The tap tempo power goes here.
(https://preview.ibb.co/hy8Vsd/IMG_4828.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fJqzky)
(https://preview.ibb.co/g9Xqsd/IMG_4829.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nxkAsd)
(https://preview.ibb.co/ntugyJ/IMG_4830.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gqEQQy)
(https://preview.ibb.co/hzkAsd/tap_tempo.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fRAbXd)
ONE LAST THING, Bumblebee Swell.....Oh God!!!!
Thodse gut shots are insane.
When everything works you need to make a video with all pedals turned on to see what happens. Probably just a lot of noise.
This is insane. And awesome.
Super cool project.
Should we do YouTube live for demoing this? I think there's a lot information to cover and I know that one video like Peter did probably won't be enough. Earlier I was thinking to create a build process vlog. However, I get sucked up and it never happened. Tons of time to plan, debug, read schematic, ordered parts, etc
I really kind of hope that you turn on the pedals one by one and when the last is switched on, it becomes self-aware and turns into Skynet. I hope you didn't give it a laser or anything dangerous.
Oh one more thing I forgot to mention. Since I've experienced high frequency attenuation, i have decided to add unicorn buffer in and out.
Yes it will be exciting to see a youtube video off it when powering up first time and test playing etc and probably burning a hole through the floor and sparks and unicorns and screaming lions and elephant fanfaring....
And the appropriate power switch.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/69/Electrical_Machinery_1917_-_knife_switch.jpg)
Quote from: reddesert on May 28, 2018, 10:49:10 PM
I really kind of hope that you turn on the pedals one by one and when the last is switched on, it becomes self-aware and turns into Skynet. I hope you didn't give it a laser or anything dangerous.
I found this in a box of parts I had. I don't know where it came from (seriously).
(https://i.imgur.com/ei9ZsWw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WudZFpz.jpg)
Kinda late to the party here, but... Squeee! ;D
Ladies and Gentlemen! I'd like to present you the VFE Mega Pedal build
(https://preview.ibb.co/m0U8Xo/ED786_AF8_2_A86_4_FD2_9_F65_DEEFB43_ACD4_D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hPRBk8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/i8GoXo/49_D86_DE6_DF8_F_448_A_A87_C_3195606_E5_A01.jpg) (https://ibb.co/iGzmJT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/eSSj58/5_EE4_E0_DE_07_DD_4_AA5_A708_3_A77_EE21_A86_D.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k7x6JT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/d40FCo/6_AAD7075_3030_4_D3_D_976_B_6_F508_CFA32_CB.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fcboXo)
(https://preview.ibb.co/h6Usso/06_F13387_AAC7_47_B8_A53_A_5_EDD84_B154_A3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fRAMk8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/bDAnQ8/A8817_E20_C32_A_4830_8764_AA4_D0_F31_F0_C3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hcEE58)
(https://preview.ibb.co/j5woXo/8_A209_DF9_07_F2_4828_B85_E_987_ED40_A6_A31.jpg) (https://ibb.co/eCiDyT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/eVYrk8/CA2_E3_A6_A_9_DBE_4_B9_B_938_B_463_DC5_C77_A76.jpg) (https://ibb.co/g38P58)
(https://preview.ibb.co/bJabJT/7_C1125_A5_BAA2_46_A0_B83_B_7_B5305_C64423.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hhe3yT)
(https://preview.ibb.co/hhQMk8/A0_A65641_691_C_43_A5_B669_388_B6_D56_C710.jpg) (https://ibb.co/niMu58)
(https://preview.ibb.co/c52qdT/4_D71_F2_D9_2_EBA_4592_82_DC_A8_A15170_D1_A8.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cDknQ8)
(https://preview.ibb.co/iaRNso/7_F207484_AF97_481_E_BE5_F_3_EE542_A915_C1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jkt2so)
Beautiful, and my guess is priceless :)
Not to lower the tone, but is the "delete account" an injoke I'm not in on?
(http://gifimage.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/2001-a-space-odyssey-gif-2.gif)
Quote from: alanp on June 05, 2018, 10:54:21 PM
Beautiful, and my guess is priceless :)
Not to lower the tone, but is the "delete account" an injoke I'm not in on?
It's not an injoke. Apparently, it was an issue with the imgbb. I just fixed it. All good now.
Alright, so quick recap!
1. I sorta fixed the Bumblebee issue. It was with the 2N5457 though I am still waiting for replacement boards from OSHPark and started all over again. I'd highly recommend use 2N5952 for Bumblebee with recommended Vgs from Peter (around 1.4-1.5V). It will produce the longest swell. Mine is 1.12V. I am ordering some 2N5952 for testing later on. Be in my mind that the 1uF doesn't need to be a tantalum, however, the .68uF needs to be a tantalum.
2. Since it's a massive pedal chain, I added Unicorn Buffer Breath for IN and OUT buffer. Adding Buffer for I/O is the best decision I've ever made for this pedal. No more squealing/ high oscillation/ whining from high-frequency attenuation and it does sound way much cleaner.
3. I've added relay bypass from 1776 and again, I am very satisfied with the result. It's way much cleaner and nicer build with it. I daisy chained the Relay bypass using the extra +/- pads. It's very useful.
4. It's a massive build. So far, I have spent more than 100 hours to build this including errors, drawing the artwork, schematic, planning, etc. It's a real pain, challenging, fun, a lot of sweat, tears, desperado, and finally, it's done. A lot of effort understanding the circuit and looking at the schematic. Right now, I am quite familiar with what Peter has done for the majority of VFE product lines. I sort of understand where the idea came from and the inspiration to build a better design. I think this is the most important thing overall.
5. If you're tempted or inspired to build your own, I'd recommend creating the new design of the switching. The switching is the most interesting thing. So far, I have been fun learning PIC/ATMEL stuff. As a reference, you should do 9x2 switching board if you want to daisy chain it. Otherwise, figure out the puzzle of Mega Pedal switching. I know I am little bit cheating by adding the 1776 relays and switch them together without adding the patch bay. But, hey, it's my build and I picked different variances of VFE pedals I might use as one giant pedal. So far, it works for me.
Sugarcoated rainbows and Unicorns farting like smelly roses.... :o
Only 100 hours?
Bloody hell....
Quote from: Willybomb on June 06, 2018, 02:09:47 AM
Only 100 hours?
Bloody hell....
More than 100 hours. Out from what my wife has counted.
That is some fantastic work. Shoot, even I don't have the guts to attempt something so ambitious! You should be very proud of your work. And, keep those pics...I sense a good build of the year contender here :)
Congratulations on this massive undertaking. In addition to the technical challenges, the painting on the board, decals, and knob choices look fantastic!
Quote from: madbean on June 06, 2018, 07:07:33 AM
I sense a good build of the year contender here :)
The only obstacle to winning will be creating a demo video of reasonable duration to fully show it off. ;D
QA inspection done by my intern
(https://preview.ibb.co/ivBtHo/018_C7_E14_192_B_4_A2_E_9161_B49967_A6_DEFB.jpg) (https://ibb.co/d2yJiT)
Does the pedal weigh more than your intern?
Quote from: EBK on June 06, 2018, 09:35:29 AM
Does the pedal weigh more than your intern?
He is a big boy. Surprisingly, the pedal weight isn't as heavy as him.
great pic of your intern inspecting the pedalboard!
Amazing result. Well worth all the work you've put into it!
As for the labeling, here's the result:
(https://preview.ibb.co/fMGp8T/A09_DA7_C0_3734_4_D8_D_AAD5_6_D3_E8_DC03129.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ewOEa8)
Those colored nuts on your footswitches look great. Where did they come from?
Found them on the internet at lovemyswitches. I didn't even know those existed. Nice touch for your mega pedal!
Quote from: zgrav on June 09, 2018, 08:16:25 AM
Found them on the internet at lovemyswitches. I didn't even know those existed. Nice touch for your mega pedal!
Didn't see your question, I apologize. Yes, it was from BLMS, anodized nuts. They are really nice and work as label for the LOOP/CLUSTER.
You have my axe*
*vote for BOTY_2019