Project overview
Self-claimed as the first overdrive featuring hard mosfet clipping, the OCD has been for sure and standard for everyone in love with gain and singing guitar leads. We covered all 4 classic versions of the OCD in this board, plus the JHS mods and our own version!
Like always, you can do some experimentation and come with your own version of this iconic drive.
Introduction
The OCD is a pedal Mike Fuller, initially build for himself. His thought was that other overdrive pedals manufactured at this time just keep pronouncing things amps already deliver. He was looking for a circuit that adds JTM45 like overtones to any setup allowing you to crank the volume to create singing leads
from every amplifier.
Over the years, he did plenty of versions, so we matched the PCB and the documents to give you the option to build one of four versions.
If your amp already delivers quite some high-end, I recommend building V3. Got more gain on top but a tone control that adds less high-end (this could sound a little harsh and is one of the biggest complaints some guys have with the circuit). Also you can experiment moding the key highlighted values and design your own version!
In this model, we have also included the possibility to add toggles that enable-disable the input and output buffers individually. When you are sure that you want the buffers always “on” or “off, “you can leave the toggles out. Using in and out for no buffer and buffer in and out for buffers. You also can mix that up or experiment with different combinations. I recommend alligator clips for that or a test box.
Controls
- Gain
- Level
- Tone
- Hi-lo Switch
- Input buffer switch (Optional)
- Output buffer switch (Optional)
For further analysis on this circuit take a look at this thread on DIY Stomp Boxes Forum and Free Stomp Boxes Forum.
For any technical questions regarding this build don’t forget to check out our Facebook Group and our forum at Free Stomp Boxes.
Building docs current version:
TOC V2.1 – Building Docs
TOC V2.0 – Building Docs
TOC V2.0 – Drilling template
Previous versions:
OCD – Building Docs
OCD – Drilling Template
TOC v2.0 – Drilling Template
Lucio –
This OCD PCB is GREAT! It’s so versatile that allows you to build many different versions, and the buffers are areally nice add on.
I built mine based on V3.
Thanks guys! Keep it up!
yupnitski77 (verified owner) –
I really dig this one! It’s tonally versatile and has enough gain if needed. It’s still an overdrive rather than distortion for me. Nevertheless, 5/5!
My build was the PCBGuitarMania version.