Vista Cruiser Hybrid #6
The Vista Cruiser Hybrid (VC2) is a silicon/germanium hybrid fuzz inspired by the V828 Vox Tonebender and 70's Fuzz Face circuit topology.
HYBRID MODE:
The VC2 has a two way toggle switch that selects between a matched pair of TFK BC108B silicon transistors, or Hybrid Mode which removes the second BC108B (Q2) from the circuit and inserts a black glass germanium OC140. The silicon and germanium transistors have also been closely matched so the VC2 sounds great no matter which combo you choose. The VC2 uses lower gain silicon transistors that give a smoother tone and a very low leakage, low noise germanium, to compliment the hybrid configuration.
KNOBS:
Three simple controls from left to right are - Volume, Fuzz, and Bias. With the bias set to noon, the VC1 biases at around 4.5 volts. All the way clockwise the bias sits around 2.5 volts, and up to 6 volts when turned fully counter clockwise. Adjusting the bias changes the character of the fuzz and frequency response. When the bias is set clockwise past 2 o’clock, it starts to dial in a gated fuzz sound. The VC1 also cleans up beautifully when you roll back your guitar volume, giving you another layer of sonic possibilities. The VC2 has been tuned so the Fuzz control has a wide range of gain. All the way to the right for rich sustaining fuzz. When the fuzz knob is turned left, past 12 o’clock, the VC2 achieves a clean low gain fuzz that doesn't get too dark and muddy, like many fuzz face's tend to be at the lowest fuzz setting.
But wait, there's more!
Inside the VC2 is an adjustable input trim pot. This sets the input impedance and changes the character of the fuzz, similar to rolling off the volume on your guitar. If you want to change my personal setting, simply use a small screwdriver to adjust where you like it.
I took a different spin on the LED indicator. The VC2 has a clear chicken head bias knob that illuminates orange when the pedal is engaged. This also makes it very easy to find and fiddle with the bias in low light situations.
The Vista Cruiser includes all premium components and hardware that are measured and tested for reliability and accuracy. I take pride in every pedal.
Features Include:
- 2x TFK BC108B, 1x Black Glass OC140
- NOS Capacitors - Sprague, Brown Drop, and Rubycon "greenie" caps
- 1/2 watt carbon comp resistors
- Vintage style wide pitch vero board
- Switchcraft I/O jacks
- Lumberg DC jack (9V center negative)
- Gørva Design foot switch
- Clear chicken head bias knob with internal LED indicator (orange)
- Custom powder coated enclosure
- Real mahogany wood veneer