The Cliffhanger is a modified version of the Hermida Dover Drive, which is based on the Chandler Tube Driver. While the two circuits are quite different, the Dover Drive is still a great sounding hybrid overdrive. The Cliffhanger combines a silicon fuzz with a Zendrive circuit, resulting in delicious tones reminiscent of David Gilmour and Eric Johnson.

One interesting aspect of the design is the use of PNP transistors on the front end of the circuit, instead of the typical NPN version found in a Fuzz Face. It’s unclear why this approach was chosen, but it may have been to allow for the option of using germanium transistors in the future.

The Cliffhanger has several modifications and additional controls compared to the Dover Drive. The controls include:

– FUZZ: Sets the amount of fuzz before the overdrive circuit. Turning this control may produce some zipper noise, which is normal.
– COMP: Alters the bias of Q3. When turned clockwise, compression increases, squashing the fuzz into a buzzing bee-like sound.
– PRE: This trimmer sets the output volume of the fuzz before the overdrive circuit. It can be adjusted to taste.
– VOICE: This trimmer adds a “Voice” control similar to the Zen Drive. Turning it clockwise clips lower frequencies in the overdrive circuit while reducing overall gain. Its use is somewhat limited.
– TONE: A simple low pass filter placed directly after the overdrive clipping stage.
– VOL: Sets the output level of the effect.
– S/M: In the left position (stock), the Cliffhanger functions as a Dover Drive. In the right position (modded), an additional input gain stage is added, resulting in a brighter and more mid-focused tone. This setting works well when rolling off the guitar volume.

Overall, the Cliffhanger offers a modified and expanded version of the Dover Drive, with additional controls and options for tone shaping.

Summary created by AI from the original source.