Tools, Tones and Toys for Guitarists
The Zonk Machine II was the more budget friendly version of the Zonk Machine. It was a simplified circuit and featured silicon transistors in place of germanium. Originals used 2N4061 PNP silicons, but other could be used. Because it’s silicon based, it shouldn’t be too hard to make the swap to NPNs so it can … Read more
Another super rare Hornby Skewes pedal, so rare in fact I can’t even find a video for it. Similar to the treble booster, but boosts the bass frequencies instead of the treble. I’m certain just like any other vintage Hornby Skewes pedal it’s gonna sound great. Layout 1: Original PNP Layout 2: NPN Version
Another classic. Not much info on this one either. It’s super rare, just like 99% of the Hornby Skewes pedals. Essentially, it’s a set booster that you can switch between either bass or treble boost. Rumor has it that it was used by Ritchie Blackmore during the 1960s up until 1974, as well as Jethro … Read more
Best info I could find on this creamy classic fuzz goodie. The 1967 John Hornby Skewes Zonk Machine II is an extremely rare, and vintage pedal enthusiasts have long coveted both the original Zonk and its successor, the Zonk II. The Zonk II was the result of a re-engineered Zonk Machine I, which was based … Read more
Well got time for another study break, so it’s that time for another layout. Just like the last layout I posted, here’s another uber rare fuzz, a gift from the fuzz gods that no worshiper of fuzz should be without IMHO. One of the more famous Tone Bender MKI influenced fuzz boxes and now almost … Read more
The Hornby Skewes Shatterbox is another stupid rare fuzz/booster made in the 60’s, need I really say any more? In case I do, info is not really available on this monster, but here’s what I found: Skewes Shatterbox Produced in Leeds circa 1966, the unit combines two effects; The JHS Zonk fuzz and a Treble Booster circuit, the original … Read more
The Zonk Machine was one of the many British fuzz boxes that came out in the mid-60s. Like the Tone Bender Mk II it was designed to compete with, it also was featured 3 germanium transistors but offered more of a boost and slight oscillation (in a good way). This is a positive ground effect … Read more