Beginner w/ parts list questions for Lava Rim 2 and Ampeg Scrambler

[maddscientist]

Happy new year!!!  I have several questions I cannot seem to answer.  I have searched all over the place and read through the FAQ.  Please help.  The parts lists I am referring to are from GGG.

1:  The lava rim 2 specifies a 1N43A diode.  I cannot find this diode ANYWHERE.  What can I use instead?
2:  The scrambler specifies 1N4148 diodes, but small bear has several other diodes (1N456 GI and 1N456 Fairchild re-make) listed for use w/ construction of the scrambler.  Which should I use?
3:  Why are the resistors and capacitors at small bear listed in parameters instead of specific values?
4:  Does anyone know if small bear has a min. order?

Thanks in advance...............

[fixr1984]

As far as the diode goes check out arons store..the link is on the top of the page.

[maddscientist]

Thanks for the reply.  The available diodes at the store is 1N34A.  The specified diode is 1N43A.  Is this just a misprint?  I cannot find this diode, period.

[fixr1984]

Heres a schematic i found that shows the 1n34a diode availabe in Arons store. So I think that the GGG may have been a misprint??? http://www.diystompboxes.com/pedals/lava2.GIF

[spudulike]

1. Use a 1N34A, it is a Ge diode - Aron sells them at $2 for 8, you'll have valuable spares, and you'll be helping support this forum.

2. 1N914 is a general purpose silicon diode and are available everywhere. You could use 1N4148, or even 1N400x at a push.

3. They are listed by value ...

Capacitors are listed in ranges by type & mfr. Just click the link for the correct value range. When building your first pedal buy the cheapest. Later, type and dimensions may be more important then exact value (eg 200nF poly vs 220nF mylar).

Resistors are classified by rating (wattage and tolerance) and then by value range (see caps above). For stompbox use just get the 1/4W 5% or the 1%. I suggest you check what E24 etc values are - that will explain how people sell resistors.

4.  Steve charges delivery by weight and has no minimum order that I know of. Of course £4 delivery on a 3p resistor is stupid so you make your own minimum order really.


And Happy New Year.

[maddscientist]

The list says to use a .1uF to 47uF cap for input cap.  What effect will different values have on the tone?  Also, is socketing necessary?

[maddscientist]

The question about 1N4148 for the scrambler was what effect using a 1N456 GI or fairchild re-make would have instead of the 1N4148.  Also,  for the lava rim what effect would using a 2N5088 and a GE have on the tone?  I really appreciate the answers...........  just getting started.........

[spudulike]

Firstly, acknowledge that you've read the previous helpful posts and dont just launch into another question ... its only polite 

A Ge diode has a lower forward voltage than an Si so gives a softer clip ( and so lower clip onset). My honest response would be to try both (like I said 2$ for 8 isnt expensive)

The input cap on a circuit like that has a great effect on the resulting tone. The lower the value the more trebly the output really (although it affects the tone in subtle ways).

Look for some threads on the the SD Tweak Fuzz - thats just an Si Fuzz Face with selectable input caps.

I would suggest a socket for that cap, try a few within the range and pick yer fave

[maddscientist]

Thanks for the etiquette tip...  I really have no idea what the correct procedure is, forums or circuits!  I took a class a while back and I just figured out I can apply the soldering etc. to making effects.  I am very eager to get started, and if I seem pushy forgive me.  I am finishing a wah mod from guitar to bass w/ a pot for gain response at Re1, all I have to do is drill a hole and mount the pot w/ knob.  Very satisfying. 

[spudulike]

No probs, Its just nice to know youve read what we post 

You can pm me if you need more help with the Lava or Scrambler.

BTW, we all had to start somewhere whether its forums or stompers. Welcome to the game !