Things You'll Need:
- Capacitors Resistors Diodes Power supply Transistors Pedal chassis Perfboard Soldering iron Solder Electrical tape Wires Other electronic components Electronic schematics Audio adapters Control pots Multimeter Screws Screwdriver Guitar cables Guitar Amplifier
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Step 1
Consider buying a kit. Websites like the first one listed in Resources have a variety of guitar-pedal kits that include everything you need to build one.
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Step 2
Learn how to read schematics, how to solder and how to use a perfboard. Although you can use a breadboard or a printed circuit board, a perfboard is usually the easiest way to wire a simple circuit like a guitar pedal. Follow the links for more info.
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Step 3
Download plans for a simple distortion pedal. Look for a pedal with few components and no integrated circuits.Integrated circuits are easy to damage or hook up improperly, so wait until you have a bit more experience before using. The pedal called "The Rocket" in the schematics link is a good example of a great pedal for beginners.
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Step 4
Make a list of all of the components you need. Your schematics should come with a list of components. If it doesn't, copy the names of the components off the schematics. Also include other components like a pedal chassis case, an audio adapter, wires and volume pots.
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Step 5
Number the connections. Put a number next to every connection between two components on your schematics. This will help ensure that you make all the connections.
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Step 6
Push all the components into the perfboard. Every electronic component will have two or three small metal pieces protruding from it that will fit easily into the holes in the perfboard.
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Step 7
Wire the first two components together. Strip the enamel off both ends of a wire. Then twist the exposed end around the terminal of each component. Solder the connection.
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Step 8
When you have made all of the connections, put the pedal together. Tape or screw the perfboard in place and screw the pedal together. Plug the input into your guitar and the output into your amplifier. Turn on the amp and the pedal. Rock out!
