Ge transistors

[masonlewisdiesel]

Recently picked up a lot of Germanium MP42B's(AC128/OC75) as well as MP16B"s(2N404). I am almost done sorting though them, about 90 out of 200 or so have a HFE between 40-60 as well as leak being okay. I'm new to pedal building so I'm still learning, is there any suggested use for these? any pedals that would require that amount of gain that you could recommend me?
Thanks
-Lewis

 

[humlover]

Hi, I used a MP16B for a RangeMaster treble booster with success, I prefer it to another circuit that uses an OC44. I didn't measure hFE. I used a trimpot for BIAS as explained in this article: https://www.electrosmash.com/dallas-rangemaster

 

[jwin615]

Well, you're restricted to PNP circuits (positive ground, charge pump boards) unless you flip the circuit which, if you're just starting out, I wouldn't recommend.
There are several similar threads you might find of interest asking a similar question you may find some inspiration in:

What can I make with these Ge transistors?

Hello! I've made a few Ge fuzzes but am not really familiar with the various classic circuits. I am wondering what else I might be able to make with what I have. Below is a list of my Germanium transistors, with gain noted. Unfortunately I don't have a way to measure leakage but I believe these...

forum.pedalpcb.com

Putting some germanium transistors to use

I recently ordered a small number Ge transistors. I measured them this week using the RG Keen method. I found a few that are usable in some circuits I'd like to build, but there's also a few outside of ranges recommended for the circuits I know about. One pair is 135 and 200 Hfe (both around...

forum.pedalpcb.com