I have a few 2N5088 on hand, a pedal calls for a 2N5087. Is it a bad idea to use it instead?

The pedal is a clone of a Boss HM-2, Because one is NPN and the other PNP, should I install the 2N5088 backwards to how the doc says the 2N5087 should go?
 
You can use other NPN transistors - BC549C, BC550C, 2N5089, 2N3904. Not the exact replacements but you'll be able to test the circuit at least. Some have higher, some lower gain than 2N5088. And remember to check the pinout first.
 
A BC549C or BC550C would be an excellent replacement for a 2N5088. The pinout is 180 degrees different I think. But no, turning an NPN 180 degrees doesn't turn it into a PNP! I wish!
 
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