I need Diode lessons.........

[Banjotaz]

I know that the most popular types of diodes used in overdrives and fuzzes are 1n34, 1n270,1n4148 and LED's.  I was wondering the general scale percentages of clipping for each and I'd like to know what others work good or don't work and why.  Also, what are Zener diodes?   Any info links or charts someone could point me to would be greatly appreciated.      Happy new year!!!!! :?

[Fret Wire]

Scroll down about 1/4 of the page and you'll see a primer on diodes.
http://www.diystompboxes.com/cnews/FAQ.html

Then, check out this link about simple mods, and how to use diodes.
http://www.diystompboxes.com/cnews/mods.html

Both of these links are right here on Aron's site.

[petemoore]

I used a six pin IC [8 pin works of course] socket to try diodes out. Just ran a rail up either side, where the diodes are in schematic, then was able to try all kinds of plug in diode combo's and types.
 Although they always sound different and I like trying different ones in different circuits, even doing this once imparts the 'sound info' in a more detailed and complete manner than can be typed about to someone whose never done it...just one of those things.
 OF course putting a switch on the lower clipping threshold diode or configuration of diodes is even quicker between sound types.
 With switch and socket, I decided on one config for sure, then left the other with socketed, then use small dab of hot glue or just tape to hold them in.

[jmusser]

I printed off this thread quite awhile back, that Peter Snowberg, Mark Hammer and some others commented on. The topic was "Which diodes sound like what", on 10/13/04.  http://www.diystompboxes.com/sboxforum/viewtopic.php?t=25932 Hopefully this will clear things up for you.

[jmusser]

I found another good thread. Use the same prefix as above with suffix number 26918. It's under the heading of "Clipping diode flavors". Between the two threads, you ought to get a pretty good handle on diodes behaviors in cicuits. Also on this site in the "Simple, Easy Mods/Tips & Techniques" that Aron has written up, is good information about diode configurations and what their effects are on tones.