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Germanium Diodes
Posted: 18 Sep 2009, 03:46
by 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
Re: Germanium Diodes
Posted: 18 Sep 2009, 03:51
by 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.

Re: Germanium Diodes
Posted: 18 Sep 2009, 05:41
by 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.

Re: Germanium Diodes
Posted: 19 Sep 2009, 01:52
by gght
Will let you know, I'll be there next week.
Re: Germanium Diodes
Posted: 02 Oct 2009, 00:10
by gght
RnFR you have a PM.
Re: Germanium Diodes
Posted: 18 Sep 2011, 21:11
by matt239
RnFR wrote: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.

Re: Germanium Diodes
Posted: 18 Sep 2011, 21:28
by 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.
Re: Germanium Diodes
Posted: 19 Sep 2011, 17:13
by 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.