Best input FET?

[mabell313]

I have came across four FETs that are all low capacitance. they are: 2N3819, 2N4416, SK30A, J305. I have used the J305 with great results. Does anyone have a favorite? Does one sound better than the other? I already have about a dozen or so of the J305 so, I would prefer not to buy the other three FETs if it is not necessary. Anyone's thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[HellfireStudios]

As with most electronics, the application will usually determine the best part for the job. What are you trying to make with these FET's?

-James-

 

[mabell313]

Sorry, I should have said microphone in there somewhere.

 

[HellfireStudios]

Haha. I was under that assumption. I ask which mic(s) because vintage Neumann clones would be more correct with a 2N3819, but DIYers have been getting great mileage with the J305 in other mics.

I guess it would depend on whether you wanted a lower gain, vintage sound or a higher gain, more modern component.

-James-

 

[RuudNL]

It seems Brauner has used the J-201 FET.
I don't have any experience with this type, but I am going to do some experiments with it.
Also I will do some measurements to check the effect on the self noise of a microphone.
(By the way: the electronics of the Brauner microphones are amazingly simple, it seems that "less is more")

 

[Marik]

It seems Brauner has used the J-201 FET.

That jFET has very low Idss (0.2--1ma max) and Vgs(off) (0.3--1,5V). To overcome those limitations and to make it work he uses some tricks. Commercial product is very different from DIY. That jFET would not be my first choice... at least for the classic schematics implementing jFET driving transformer.

Best, M

 

[mabell313]

The two that caught my attention: SK30A & 2N4416

Has anyone around here ever tried these? How do they compare to the J305?

I am about to go ahead and just buy some. Enough with all the questions!