germanium diode replacement = 1N4001 ?

[norg]

So I've recently started buiding this project. This is my first pedal, ever.

http://www.geocities.com/j4_student/beginners.html

Because I didn't look at the schematic properly, I just went out and got 2 1N4001 diodes' on the list when it was actually specified that one diode must be 1N4001 and another must be 1N34A.

Either way, I connected my circuit on the perf board and it didn't work. Instead of putting a germanium, I just used a 1n4001 in its place. All I get is a hum from my amp.

I mean, is it possible that I could still make that circuit without the germanium diode and using two 1n4001? Just wondering...because if so, I must've done something wrong with my circuit...

Thanks.

[zyxwyvu]

That circuit should still work properly with just about any diodes in there. The diodes there just clip the signal, and the type of diode mostly determines where it clips (~.3V for germanium, ~.6V for silicon, if I remember correctly). Since you only get hum, you should check your connections with a multimeter to make sure everything is connected how it should (is the transistor oriented right?). If everything seems right, you should check out the debugging thread here: http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=29816.0.

[aron]

I bet you have a simple wiring mistake either at the jacks or at the switch (if you are using one).

Yes, chec, out the debugging page.

[ildar]

Ah, the Electra. 'twas my first build, and I use it often. Actually, I have (2) 4001s for clippers in mine, I prefer it to the germanium in that circuit. Great simple build.

[dmk]

heard OP91's are a good 1N34A replacement.
never tried them though

[Rafa]

For the 1n34 Ive used the 1n60 and works perfect for everything. I dont think that Si in place of Ge would be a good idea, but maybe it still sholud work

[dmk]

that should be OA91 

[ildar]

For the 1n34 Ive used the 1n60 and works perfect for everything. I dont think that Si in place of Ge would be a good idea, but maybe it still sholud work

Why not?
Outside of providing symmetrical clipping, which is open to opinion as far as sounding better, 2 Si diodes will work perfectly in this circuit. In fact, most any diode clipper overdrive will work ok with 2 Si.
Distortion+, TS-9, DOD 250, among others have a pair of Si diode clippers in stock form. One of the disadvantages of using a Ge diode as a clipper is lower output compared to Si, although that may ot be a problem for some.

[Dirk_Hendrik]

For the 1n34 Ive used the 1n60 and works perfect for everything. I dont think that Si in place of Ge would be a good idea, but maybe it still sholud work

I think it will. Ge wil be disappointing dus to the fizzinezz and lack of volume.

[ildar]

Actually, I have (2) 4001s for clippers in mine

Not to repeat myself, but....

[mac]

OA91 sounds close to, but not equal, to 1N60, which are widely available. The 1N34 and AA117 I bought have their own character too. If your ears are still in good shape you can certainly hear the differences in a MXR+.


mac