Introduction
The BC308 is a PNP bipolar junction transistor (BJT) primarily designed for low-frequency audio amplification and general-purpose applications. It is well known for its low noise characteristics and stable DC gain, making it an ideal choice for audio preamplifiers, tone control circuits, and small signal processing. With a maximum collector current of –100mA and a collector-emitter voltage rating of –25V, the BC308 provides reliable performance in low-power analog circuits and audio signal amplification.

The transistor is housed in a TO-92 plastic package, making it compact and suitable for both prototyping and mass production. It’s widely used in consumer audio equipment, DIY amplifier kits, and low-noise input stages, where maintaining signal purity and minimal distortion is critical. The BC308 ensures smooth frequency response and consistent gain, enhancing the fidelity of audio and analog circuits.
BC308 PNP Transistor

The BC308 belongs to the BC307–BC309 family, which are all PNP low-noise transistors with varying voltage ratings and gain ranges. Among these, the BC308 offers a balanced combination of moderate voltage tolerance and high current gain, making it a popular choice in educational electronics, instrumentation circuits, and signal conditioning stages. It continues to be a trusted transistor for both engineers and hobbyists seeking reliable, low-noise amplification performance.
Pinout of BC308

Key Features
- Low noise PNP transistor for clean audio amplification
- Designed for general-purpose and low-frequency use
- High DC gain ensures reliable small-signal performance
- Compact TO-92 package ideal for PCB mounting
- Stable characteristics over a wide temperature range
- Suitable for low distortion analog and audio circuits
Specifications/Characteristics
- Collector–Emitter Voltage (VCEO): –25V
- Collector–Base Voltage (VCBO): –30V
- Emitter–Base Voltage (VEBO): –5V
- Collector Current (IC): –100mA
- Power Dissipation (Ptot): 500mW
- DC Current Gain (hFE): 110 to 800 (varies by subgroup)
- Transition Frequency (fT): 120MHz typical
- Noise Figure: 2dB typical
- Junction Temperature Range: –55°C to +150°C
- Package Type: TO-92
Pin Configuration
| Pin# | Pin Name | Pin Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Collector | Current flows into this terminal (output). |
| 2 | Base | Controls the transistor’s switching and amplification. |
| 3 | Emitter | Current flows out of this terminal. |
Comparison Summary: BC307 vs BC308 vs BC309
- BC307 offers the highest voltage tolerance of up to –45V, making it suitable for circuits requiring higher supply voltages.
- BC308 provides a moderate voltage rating of –25V with a wider hFE (gain) range, making it ideal for low-power audio preamplifier and general amplification use.
- BC309 has a slightly lower voltage rating (around –20V) but features the lowest noise figure, optimized for very sensitive audio and signal input stages.
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Key Applications of BC308 PNP Transistor
- Audio preamplifiers and signal amplification stages
- Low-noise audio amplifier input circuits
- General-purpose low-frequency amplifiers
- Tone control and equalization networks
- Analog and instrumentation signal processing
- Low-power switching and driver circuits
NPN Complimentary Transistor
- The NPN complementary transistor of BC308 is BC338.
This pairing is commonly used in push-pull amplifier configurations and class AB audio output stages, where the BC308 handles the negative half of the waveform while the BC338 manages the positive side for balanced output and reduced crossover distortion.
Equivalent Transistors of of BC308 PNP Transistor
- BC307
- BC309
- BC556
- BC557
- BC558
- 2N3906
- 2N2907
- S8550
(Pin configuration of some transistors mentioned here may different from BC308).
Datasheet of BC308 PNP Transistor
Click the following Button below to download the datasheet of BC308 Transistor :
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