What can I use instead of this? Can I use a 2n3904?
Thanks.
http://diystompboxes.com/sboxforum/viewtopic.php?t=19568&highlight=2n5088+substitute
maybe some basic transistor subs need to be added to the FAQ?
This is easier to obtain than the 5088, for a quick fix, but still doesnt have as high a gain. The 4401 is what I use[radio shack], the 3904 works also but I like 4401 better. 2n222 works[I think], You could try an 3053[tin can type]
BC549C is a commonly available similar type. A 2N3904 has lower gain and more noise. The PN100A is a bit closer than the 2N3904, and much closer than a 2N2222 (which is really in a different league).
2N2222's have a gain of only about 150-200. They are general purpose and are kind of noisy in audio circuits, but not too bad.
I have tried some 2N3053's in a fuzz face circuit, and they sound decent. They are medium gain, in a metal can.
2N3904's are a little bit higher, and are rather noisy for high gain audio circuits.
2N4401's are medium gain (I think around 300-350) and work satifactorily in audio circuits.
2N5088's are much higher gain than any of the above. (400-500?)
I have some 2N5089's that measure over 800!
...sigh... you don't look for transistors to replace the 2N5088. The 2N5088 is what replaces *other* transistors. Remember Keen's Second Law -
"When in doubt, use a 2N5088."
;-)
I use a lot of 2N4401 because they are in the little circuit that's in the blinker lights on barricades here at work. They come in busted up and befaore thtrowing them out I snip the little circuit off which nets me:
2each 2N4401 NPN
1each 2N4403 PNP
1 LDR of indeterminate value
I use the 2N4401 though when I need a low/medium gain BJT though, not really as a sub for a 2N5808.
Regards
RDV
I really like the 5088's. Like R.G. says "when in doubt, use a 5088!". They are serious transistors for distortion! For the price, you can load up on them from small bear.
In the UK: When in doubt use the BC108C - hFE 700 - 1000!
Is there some cross reference between 2Nxxxx series and BCxxx series somewhere?
H.
i've moved to MPSA18 transistors as a sub for 2N5088s and 2N3904s in a lot of my circuits especially where noise is a concern. they are a highly-recommended Motorola low-noise transistor.
Quotei've moved to MPSA18 transistors
Right on the money, Z. 8)
Better noise figures and similar gain to the BC549C that I recommended above.