Klon Clone Kit Build By A Newbie

[Guitar Dude]

So I decided for some insane reason that I wanted to build a Klon clone pedal kit. Why is this insane, you ask? Because I have almost zero electronic soldering skills, that's why! I've done a bit of guitar wiring soldering, but that's the extent of my experience. But alas, in my mind, the best way (for me) to learn something is to just jump right in and start doing it. Any soldering tips you folks may have will be greatly appreciated!

This will be a bit of a slow build thread, as I tend to work a lot of hours (I drive an Uber in Boston) and will only be able to get to this periodically.



I already knew I wanted to learn to solder, so I splurged on a pretty decent quality soldering station - a Hakko FX-951:

Here's what came in the kit:

 

[Guitar Dude]

I found this website showing how to build the same exact kit, as well as a YouTube video by the same dude.

How to Build a Klon Centaur Clone (DIY Kit Tutorial) - Guitar Gear Finder

If you want to build your own Klon Centaur clone from a kit, this is the most detailed tutorial available. See step-by-step how to build your clone with detailed diagrams.

guitargearfinder.com

 

[Guitar Dude]

So Gillespie 1983 over at TGP suggested I try this starter soldering kit before I go ahead with the clone build. I'm kinda excited to get this learning started! I also ordered a circuit board holder to help with the build. Here's a pic of what came in today. I like that the instructions are almost like a mini course in electronics and soldering. Once I get through this I'll start posting the clone build pics.

 

[Guitar Dude]

Okay, so I put together the kit. I have to say, I'm glad I did this before attempting the Klon clone kit! Luckily, everything worked out the first time, so that's good.

Component side

Underside. A fair number of the solder joints are a bit sloppy, but they work. The stuff on the right hand side is specifically for practice, and doesn't actually connect to anything.

Oops! I forgot to clip the speaker leads.

Here's a little video. The thing is kinda annoying.

 

[Guitar Dude]

Resistance is NOT futile!

Okay, so all the resistors are in. Still need a fair amount of work on my soldering skills, but I think they're passable. But I need to get to the point where all of my spots look professional. There are a few dull ones here and there.

 

[Guitar Dude]

All the caps, diodes and sockets are in. I accidentally soldered a wrong cap into the wrong place. It was a PITA to get it out - hopefully it'll be okay. I marked it with a black Sharpie so it's the first thing I'll go to if I need to troubleshoot this thing when I'm done.

 

[Guitar Dude]

Got the wires soldered in

Pots placed and ready

Jacks, power, footswitch and LED in place

Board installed

All wired up and (hopefully) ready to go!

 

[Guitar Dude]

Some random close ups

 

[Guitar Dude]

Testing... 1... 2...
And we have a complete circuit! But I'm actually afraid to plug it into an amp and see if we have sound. I'm a bit too excited for some reason.

 

[Guitar Dude]

Well, I went ahead and screwed the back on and attached the knobs on the front. So you know what that means... It freakin' works!!! I was 99% sure I was gonna have to do some sort of troubleshooting, but NO!!! I'm friggin' ecstatic!

 

[Guitar Dude]

It's official! Added the box to my board.

 

[Diary Of An Axeman]

We're you nerve racked during the building process ?
If you can , post a video !!!!
Damn, good job !!!!
😎🤘

 

[Guitar Dude]

Somewhat. I didn't take a video while building it.

 

[Diary Of An Axeman]

I bet building that Klon clone, boosted your confidence .
Have you compared it yet to the real deal , yet ?