IC chip selection

jatstrat · Post by **jatstrat** » 12 May 2009, 13:00

Hello all, this is my first post...so please be gentle. I am a complete bona fide newbie at pedal building - nothing more complicated than A/B boxes and guitar rewiring at present. My question may seem very basic but here it is: How does one decide which IC chip/ OP amp to use???? Is there any info anywhere that can offer any info on specific characteristics of different chips and their suitability for various apps?....Im going to be getting my feet wet with a simple boost and progress from there.

RnFR · Post by **RnFR** » 12 May 2009, 14:00

moved topic to FAQ's section.

jatstrat · Post by **jatstrat** » 12 May 2009, 20:03

sorry for posting in the wrong area.

RnFR · Post by **RnFR** » 12 May 2009, 21:12

i'm guessing that you are talking about op amps. as in what would be used in a circuit like the tubescreamer? i would say the best way to do it would be to build up a circuit, buy a number of chips and use your ears. just because someone has compiled a list of what they think this or that opamp sounds like, it may sound different to you. all you have to do is make sure that the chips you buy are compatible with the circuit. the tubescreamer's 4558 chip is a dual opamp. there are many other dual opamps out there that fit the same pinout, just check the datasheet to make sure, socket your opamp, and go nuts. of course breadboarding is a great way to try out circuits as well, and i would say the best way to learn. welcome to the forum!

Greg · Post by **Greg** » 13 May 2009, 00:14

Build some simple projects to start.
Use the chip recommended in the schematic, or search for modifications and if they're swapping chips, try what other people have used in that circuit.
You'll soon get the hang of it.
You shouldn't need to be picking a chip from scratch at this time..

jatstrat · Post by **jatstrat** » 13 May 2009, 14:51

Thanks for the replies to my post, and thanks for the warm welcome. I look forward to the day when I will be able to contribute my experience to help others as opposed to simply seek the help of others.