English Channel - Vertical Format

NOTE - If you want the kit pre-built, this option is only available with through-hole FETs. Please ensure you select that option when ordering.

From the excellent project at Run Off Groove, here's a box of Vox that, erm... rocks!

Based on a '61 Vox AC30 Top Boost, this overdrive gives all the rich, sparkling break-up of that classic amp.

Highly tweakable tone with Volume (Gain), Bass, Treble, Treble Cut and Master Volume controls, and trim pots on all the FETs for perfect biasing. All in a package that'll fit a 1590B.

WARNING: This circuit requires precise biasing of the FETs, so a Digital Multimeter is required. It'll be all-but impossible to do it by ear, hence the difficulty rating. You must be confident when dealing with fiddly parts if going for SMT FETs .

The kit is supplied with vertical-mount pots which have round shafts, so you'll need set-screw fitting knobs. Pot spacing is tight at 17.5mm - take that into account when choosing your knobs.

If you want the PCB without parts there's a link for that at the bottom of the page.

Partial kit: PCB, all board-mounted components, pots.

Full kit: As above, plus footswitch and appropriate daughterboard/components for your selected bypass type (see Downloads section for details of those), jack sockets, DC socket, battery snap, hook-up wire, LED.

Enclosure (pre-drilled) is available as an option with full kits, and will not take a battery. Knobs are not included.

Inspired by: English Channel

Difficulty: Hard

PCB size: 50 x 48mm

Knobs required: 5

Enclosure: 1590B

Download the INSTRUCTION PDF