Diode clipping questions

[rublalup]

hi,

i´ve just build a guv'nor clone (tonepad) and put a switch to change between one of the leds and 2 1N4004 in series. i really prefer the sound with leds (normal layout) and i´m thinking what effect would produce to change the 1N4004 option with 4 or 5 leds in series in the switch. it would produce more distortion or more volume? both? neither?

i really want to understand the effect of adding diodes in series but cant find any answer.

thanks for your replies

[Hupla]

From my understanding, the more you put in series the less they will clip, Because the voltages add up in series, meaning the signal would clip at a higher voltage not a lower one, meaning louder but less clipped, I think. I could be wrong but i know that way of thinking is right, but not sure how it effects sounding wise. lol

[tackleberry]

4 or more LEDs in series might not clip at all depending on the pedals output. With silicon and germanium having lower voltages running them in series does work. I have 3 germanium in series in a pedal so there isnt a drop in volume when switching between LED/germanium/off. There is plenty of info on the various clipping diodes. AMZ has a write up on using higher voltage zeneer diodes and mosfets.

[rublalup]

thanks a lot guys i got it now. So i probably would try taking one of the 1n4004 out and see if the volume difference isn´t too dramatic and can get a little more distortion.

thanks