Germanium Diodes

[gght]

Was browsing at the local elect. surplus place and saw some 1N60A and 1n270 germ. diodes. Found the specs here:

http://www.datasheetcatalog.com/datashe ... N60A.shtml

Can anyone tell if they are worthwhile, or are they run of the mill stuff?

Thanks!

Dave

[culturejam]

I have some 1N60s. For effects pedal purposes, they are nearly identical to 1N34A. I would guess the other type you listed is also pretty much the same when used as a clipper. So go ahead and get them, especially if they're cheap.

[RnFR]

i've heard some people actually like the 1n60's for clipping better. but unfortunately, they can't handle as much abuse. i've never personally tried them. i do like me some Ge diodes though! they've got some cool, weird characteristics that you can capitalize on. PM me if you can get some 1n60s for cheap.

[gght]

Will let you know, I'll be there next week.

[gght]

RnFR you have a PM.

[matt239]

i've heard some people actually like the 1n60's for clipping better. but unfortunately, they can't handle as much abuse. i've never personally tried them. i do like me some Ge diodes though! they've got some cool, weird characteristics that you can capitalize on. PM me if you can get some 1n60s for cheap.

Why are they not able to handle as much abuse?
Thanks.

[RnFR]

I can't remember where I was coming from with that. it was a long time ago! I'm assuming they have a lower breakdown voltage.

[agoldoor]

I've used the 270's in a number of pedals, and they're grrreat. One trick a friend of mine did was to build a rat with a switch going between germanium and silicon diodes. I was surprised at what a huge difference they make. D*A*M also uses the 270 in one (maybe more?) of his pedals.