2n5457 vs 2n5952

[knight_yyz]

Hi Guys,  I have a matched set of both of these transistors.  Is one going to sound better than the other?  I know that if say the 5457 have a lower or higher matched voltage that the sweep will be different for sure, but in actual sound quality will I be able to tell the difference?

Oh, this is for a phase 90 build.  

My other concern is that the circuit I have is on PCB and the parts list shows the 5457, but it does say you can use the 5952 if you reverse them.  But, will I have to change anything in the circuit for this?

I have tried searching,  but all I have been able to find is the fact that you can use either as long as they are matched.  But no one has commented on sound quality differences

[Travis]

You won't have to change any other components to swap the transistors just be sure to check the pinouts

If you get a good matched set, then either transistor will sound perfect. You could socket the transistors and see if you prefer one or the other, but generally you can just get a good matched set and you're fine either way

If you're looking for someone to say you gotta use one or the other cause it sounds better, they both will do the same thing if properly selected

[rocket88]

I've built a phase 90 with both sets, one I kept and the other was for a customer. To me they really sound very similar, and isn't massively noticeable unless you're looking for it. I found the 2n5457's to be easier to dial in, and had a wider range when setting them worth the trimmer, while the 2n5952's we in the spot or not.

Both sound warm and phas-o-licious. Btw, the only reason I sold the one with 2n5456's was I was waiting for an order of 2n5952's to show up, cause I didn't have a matched quad, and wanted to get the phaser to the customer. Fired right up and sounded amazing, and compared it to mine before sending it off. Again, unless you really look for differences I don't think you'll notice any difference.

[knight_yyz]

I had a feeling that was the case but since I have both sets I thought I would double check.  I'll use the 5457's and keep the others for another project.  

[rocket88]

you can always use sockets for the transistors and try both sets and see which you like best.

[knight_yyz]

I am waiting for my sockets to arrive.