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TrueSoft
TrueSoft
F
UTILITY
X Type:
Build Level: Beginner
Based On: VFE® SPS Switching System™
The TrueSoft 3.4 is the heart of all the VFE SPS projects. It handles the I/O and power for each
circuit. It utilizes a relay-based, soft switching system for silent bypass operation. The TrueSoft
PCB is connected to a separate audio PCB for each VFE SPS project via a soldered ribbon cable
(included).
There are two varieties of the TrueSoft 3.4. The first version includes a voltage inverter for
projects requiring split-rail DC operation. The second version does not include the inverter and is
used with projects that require simple single rail 9v power. The correct version is provided with each
VFE SPS project offered at madbeanpedals at no additional charge.
The TrueSoft PCB does require some through-hole component population. All the surface mount
parts are pre-soldered to the bottom of the PCB.
NOTE: The VFE SPS effects are designed for the 1590BS enclosure. Since that enclosure type is
not widely available, these projects are designated for 125B only. There are paper and Tayda drill
templates available for the 125B in this document.
There is only one user control on the TrueSoft 3.4 PCB. It is a slide switch to select whether the
effect is true bypass or buffered bypass. Enable buffer mode when required for your pedal chain.
Usually one buffered pedal near the start and/or end of a pedal chain is enough to counteract any
signal loss from using multiple pedals with patch cables inbetween.
ALL VFE projects have an alternate momentary bypass mode. When enabled, the effect is only
active while the footswitch is pressed. To enable momentary mode:
1. Wait 5 seconds after the last footswitch activation.
2. Tap the FS twice in quick succession then tap and hold. After a few seconds the bypass LED
will blink rapidly to indicate momentary mode is enabled.
3. To go back to regular bypass mode, just repeat steps 1 and 2.
Terms of Use:
You are free to use purchased TrueSoft circuit boards for both DIY and small commercial operations. You may not offer TrueSoft PCBs for
resale or as part of a "kit" in a commercial fashion. Peer to peer re-sale is fine, though.
Technical assistance
for is available via the
available to respond via email in a timely and continuous manner, and (2) posting technical problems and solutions in the forum creates a record from which other
members may benefit.
All copyrights and registered trademarks are property of their original owners. Any mention of trademarked or intellectual properties in this documents is purely for
comparative purposes.
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madbeanpedals
forum. Please go there rather than emailing me for personal assistance. This is because (1) I'm not always
Last Updated:
April 24, 2024 4:39 PM
© 2024
madbeanpedals

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Summary of Contents for madbeanpedals TrueSoft

  • Page 1 Terms of Use: You are free to use purchased TrueSoft circuit boards for both DIY and small commercial operations. You may not offer TrueSoft PCBs for resale or as part of a “kit” in a commercial fashion. Peer to peer re-sale is fine, though.
  • Page 2: Parts Layout

    Parts Layout TrueSoft pg. 2...
  • Page 3 Trace Layout Top TrueSoft pg. 3...
  • Page 4 Trace Layout Bottom TrueSoft pg. 4...
  • Page 5 Wiring Unless otherwise noted, all SPS projects are wired the same way, using the provided ribbon cable to connect the audio and I/O PCBs. TrueSoft pg. 5...
  • Page 6: Shopping List

    For your convenience, I have created a Mouser project that includes all the through-hole parts needed for the TrueSoft 3.4. It includes both relay types (latching and non-latching) so be sure to remove the relay you are not using. The Neutrik jacks do not come with nuts, so those are included in the Mouser project, as well.
  • Page 7 The latching relay is cheaper (for whatever reason) and might be beneficial if you run a lot of pedals through a looper and want your pedals in an always on state when powered up. You will need to solder some jumpers depending on which relay you choose. TrueSoft pg. 7...
  • Page 8 Build Pic The ribbon cables that come with the TrueSoft PCB have 10 wire leads instead of the required 8. Trim the 2 outer wires back at an angle, as shown above. Or, use a utility knife and cut the last two rows on the cable to make a 8-pin.
  • Page 9 125B Drill Template Use 5/16” for potentiometers and 1/4” for switches. TrueSoft pg. 9...
  • Page 10 Note: I have not tested this Tayda drill template but should be accurate. You can use a round hole instead of square for the DC Jack, if you prefer. Use either 8 or 9mm for the size. TrueSoft pg. 10...
  • Page 11 Schematic TrueSoft pg. 11...