I breadboarded this circuit. I have zero sound, not even background sizzle.
- All components are of decent grade and proofed. Most came from a Crystal Radio parts house. I understand that a new earphone can be "jammed," but this one is sounding on a known source.
- All connections have proven connectivity, point-to-point.
- The ground is solid and is to Earth.
- The antenna is double strand zip cord of long length, maybe 50+ feet. However, I have not strung it out; it is still on the spool. Each strand is soldered in parallel. This should give good volume.
- The diode is germanium; 1N34A.
- There are local stations.
- I am using a 0-335pF variable capacitor; Pin #1 and GND. Data Sheet Attached. It operates CCW, but this is of no operational consequence.
- I have varied the direction of the diode with no improvement.
- I did not have a 0.001uF smoothing cap, so I used a 0.01uF cap. I have removed it from the circuit, with no improvement.
I have reviewed the circuit and, if there is an error, I just can't see it. So, your help, please and thank you.