Thank You wery much for taking Your time to make this serie! You are my favorite Amp bulider, no other work i hawe seen so far on YT is even close to the beauty and the genuine build quality of those You made. It´s realy wery inspiring watching You do all step by hand, and even building those amazing chassies and stuff.
Nice! I jsut got out of high school and started taking classes to become an electrical engineer, so practical practice and applications like this are gonna be very valuable to me. Look forwards to more!
Hi Jeff, I have built two of these amplifiers now, the first rough and ready, the second with better quality components and neatly. The only substantial difference in design is the use of rather larger output transformers, I prefer uncompressed output. They sound absolutely great - about the most versatile range of tones I've had. I have made quite a number of amps now, and this one has tones to beat the lot.For me it sound bestplayed through an Eminence 15in Guitar (not bass) cab I have made. The amount of sheer welly it has is surprising to those who hear it. Thanks again Chris
Hi Chris! Super sorry for late reply. Not sure how I missed your comment. So glad to hear of your builds and upgrades. Also wonderful to hear that you got alot our of the amp despite the size. I completely agree about the versatility, one can get generate alot of tones. Thanks for letting me know your feedback, much appreciated!
@@scottcooper6644 Thanks Scott, I'm not exactly sure what the cost is at present due to covid. It all depends what you can source from Oz. I use transformers from old NZ Bell Colt radios that cost me about 20$ a piece. Decent switches can be obtained from old radiograms and projectors that people throw out, so I grab those too. Those are real cost savers. However if you are buying new, I would estimate that thick end if 500$. If you are resourceful, you can do it a lot cheaper, depending what you have lying around. Hope you guys are doing good over the ditch, crazy times.. Cheers
On resistors - Only thing I've really noticed with different resistor compositions is noise. I've built identical circuits in the past with 100% carbon comp vs 100% carbon film in the signal path; the carbon comp amps always had a considerably higher noise floor. It pains me to admit it because I love the look of old carbon comp resistors (the colours) but I can't justify using them for anything other than authenticity in old stuff. There's lots of great (albeit dense) application notes on the subject of resistor compositions and their performance in different applications if you're curious. I'm working on some pedals right now and I designin PCB's with your stuff on in the background. Appreciate the great content as always.
Thanks Shim! I agree about the resistors. Carbon films are fantastic. I'm not a fan of carbon comps myself. metal film, or carbon film preferably when I have a very nice build to look fwd to. All the best with the pedals, cheers!
To get the full benefit of these videos, I suggest to go ahead and buy a set of the plans - even you have no intention of really building any. Believe me guys, the plans are a MASTER PIECE. What you get is worth more than TEN times what you pay for them! Out of curiosity, Jeff, do you have any of the amps in these plans already built which one could purchase and use as a demo piece while one attempts to purchase the parts and publish or re publish - whatever is allowable by you - as a DIY kit. Looking at your design and building details, these should really sound great and quite. Am even looking at a further modification / addition to build versions using RCA input and outputs
Thanks Kofi, really appreciate the kind words. I don't have any spare amps at the moment as they go quickly, but will be building a few soon. I mainly build my amps with 230V connection so if any need to be built with 120V connections, they will have to be pre ordered. On RCA's... are you planning HiFi outputs? If so, they will need quite a bit of modification as the guitar input is low whereas HiFi is quite a bit more powerful, so input level needs to be factored in to your design. I have designed a HiFi amp circuit, email me on elams1894@gmail.com and I will send you the circuit so you can get ideas on the input. Thanks agin Kofi!
Have now completed the amp build, as far as the working chassis. Financial constraints led me to make a few cost savings, such as a decidedly second hand power transformer, but of the correct values, reduce size into a smaller chassis, and use Mallory caps in the signal path. The result sounds great to my ears. I would comment on a couple of difficulties I had. The layout diagram of where R5 and R1 terminate was difficult to interpret(for me), and I had to have a bit of a learning exercise about input impedances to work it out from the schematic. I am colour blind, and it took a while to visualise where the various switch and pot terminal are connected. I also found it had more hum than I expected, so I elevated the heater centre tap to the EL84 cathode voltage. I'm so pleased with the sound and versatility I have ordered a larger chassis and other parts to make a final, neat version. My hat is off to your amp design skills.
That's awesome Chris! Well done. Especially regarding you using second hand parts. That's what its all about. It is a challenging layout, especially with the wee switch and sorry about the layout diagram colours, I can imagine that would be difficult. I have since overhauled the layout diagram in which I have replaced the colour terminations with actual leads. I have also made a Series 2 circuit which retains the clean/crunch switch, the channels of which have their corresponding cathode caps with no additional switching. As I like the cathode caps in their designated channels, I have removed the 2P3T switch in the Series 2 circuit. This does a couple of things, makes it a bit simpler and takes away more noise. Although that switch is a cool thing, I believe it may not be entirely necessary. Also, I have designed a GT circuit for this same WISC preamp, which has a very nice tone stack. I have completed the layout diagram for this also. If you would like these reworked circuits please give me a PM or drop me an email and I will be happy to share them with you. Cheers
Just discovered this channel. Very nice. Excellent low key and exact presentation style as well as terrific knowledge. I'm surprised you didn't mention the outer foil marks on your vintage caps. Maybe that comes later. Finding that for caps that don't have it is a pain. Taking pot luck opens a big door to filament noise as I'm sure you know.
Thanks! Indeed very good points. I'm not actualy sure why I've not mentioned cap foil orientation. Thanks for highlighting the subject. I'll include it in the next video which is not far away. Have a great day!!
@elams1894 I have a challenge for you... build a ~100w high gain modern voiced metal amp head with turret construction or whatever you think is best. I dont know if you've already done it but if not i do know you'll nail it. The goal will be the most crushing metal tone possible.
@@elams1894 Took the time to read your blog on electricity. @ least someone out there is thinking & working stuff out for themselves. Instead of parroting off whatever BS the web excretes into the vacant lot of peoples "minds" Will @ some point purchase your entire plan suite. Bought an Epiphone valve jr as a tone improvement learning platform. Once that no longer sounds marginal (1/2 way there already & its my first). Your plans are next. Don't stop. Quality work is a rare & precious commodity. Cheers
9:25 yeah so I've been actually looking for what makes the difference with resistors. And the difference is in produced noise, so metal film resistors would be the choice after wire wound ones.
I enjoyed the video and I think I have got a good hold on my insight into how much I have to say how delicious this is to tell you this works and I hope to be able to get the, what I'm trying to say is keep up lovely music 🎵
Is there ever a reason not to use metal film resistors? Carbon resistors can get noisy as they age and develop micro-capacitance 'holes'. Not sure of a better way of putting that.
Great, you're back! Congratulations with the family expansion! Bummer hearing about your current job position. What's your planning for the future? Skills enough for great custom projects. Greetings from the Netherlands. -J.K.-
I can't tell you how excited I am for this! Plans have been purchased!!!... BTW, you may see me commenting as SkyScraper Guitars in the future... Not that it matters a lot, I just wanted you to know... Also, also, what old prime lenses are you using? I've got a few of those on my shopping list. Kinda fun to get away from AF technology and actually use the camera like I did 20 years ago.
Greg! Thanks so much for checking back in, thought most subscribers would have probably lost the faith by now ha. I got swamped at my previous job and had an addition to the family so spare time did not exist for me. I've since been let go from my employment hence some much needed free time. I am using mostly a Macro Takumar 50mm f4 (1:1 preset version) for this video, in addition to a Takumar 50mm f1.4. I will be also using my SMC Takumar 85mm f1.8. All are M42. They are wonderful lenses, especially the macro. If you ever come across Macro Tak preset, they are wonderful, grab it with both hands. Perhaps my best lens. Skyscraper guitars, cool, I look fwd to following the crimson guitar build, glad to see your still making vids and well done on the products and website, I saw Woodeso had a few, great stuff! Have a great day!
That's the beauty of YT... If you have to set it aside for awhile, it will be here when you come back! I'll check into those lenses. I am a bit of a photo bug!!!
Best video I've seen on showing everything and explaining. Thank you very much. Many people just show parts of it or don't really know how to explain things and you end up more confused than ever. Oh, I thought you said a dollar for the whole thing, my bad. I think it is 13 dollars,right? I'll re-play the video and see what you said again!!!!! Am I looking wrong-you said a dollar but when I go to the site, it says 6 dollars for layout, 6 dollars for schematic and ,-a dollar for the layout, or am I wrong.
Thanks heaps! It is certainly 1$ for the whole plans pack. Don't worry about the other options. The whole plans pack for 1$ includes all the others. I made it one buck as an introductory offer. Thanks again!
Thankyou for putting up your video with instructions, and making the information available. Is it possible to use a 6V6 rather than a EL84 , and to simplify it further to a single channel clean amp, with no master volume and no tone control ? cheers and thanks
Matt! Thanks so much for tuning in after iv been MIA all this time. Hope you are doing well and having a great new year. Real nice to hear from you, cheers.
I'm just halfway through building this amp, and as I have reviewed the values of components, I have a question about the value suggested for R22. Will a 1/2 Watt rating be enough for the EL84 cathode resistor lying so close to a large smoothing cap? In similar single ended EL84 amps I have used a larger wattage current value resistor to dissipate the heat better, and placed it away from other components. I also notice that in the board layout there is some confusion in the nomenclature of the grid resistor R21 and cathode resistor R14. I appreciate yours is up and running, so I would appreciate your comments.
Hi Chris. Thanks for the message, yes the error in layout drawing slipped out, however it's now been corrected, thanks for that. I have had no trouble with the 1/2 watt resistor in the R22 position but certainly to be on the safe side a 2 watt resistor would be a good idea. Cheers
Hi Allen, yeah had a website just to get some amp designs out there. I've got three or four more designs completed but just haven't got the spare time at the moment. Thanks for checking in again, cheers
@@elams1894 Great web site, love the photos. I also followed on Instagram and Flickr, if you care to look at my Instagram,(I have about 30 or 40 photos posted) it is "guitarwoody". Will probably order the amp plans next time I get paid.
@@allenwoody5909 Following! Great shots of the train over the bridge. Some beautiful texture images too. Love the contrasty atmosphere of the imagery. I'm pretty keen on photography myself, just waiting to pull the trigger on a new camera, maybe the Canon R6, if i can somehow find the funds. Message me on instagram and I'll send you the plans. I have overhauled this amp somewhat, simplified the switching, and have upgraded the layout diagram. I'll send the new stuff through to you, its quite wee beast of an amp.
hello there! I've become pretty handy with a soldering iron over the years, yet still learned a lot from your how not to melt everything video. I think I got building this amp, and I really aspire to learn how an amplifier actually works which is something I heard you won't when just building a kit with a circuit board. So that's why I wanted to dive right into this actually. I live in the Netherlands though, do you have any recommendations on how to get the right parts, for instance you say solid core wire, but don't really elaborate, I assume it should be a wire that has heat-resistant insulation, right? Would you recommend specialized stores or just get stuff as cheap. For instance the olefin heat shrink I just got off of amazon. Also, I intend to build a tube amp with none or at least minimal self noise. I heard from a specialist that this depends on the transformer, do you have any recommendations? Is the transformer on your parts list for instance up to those standards? from what the guy told me I heard they can be pretty expensive.
Hi Thijs, thanks for checking out the vids. Indeed tube amps are a fantastic journey albeit a long and windy road, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. First off, solid core cable is just solid copper, no strands. It is easier to bend, stays in place, however will break if bent too much. Use solid core for areas like filaments, or hook up wire that is intended to stay in one place. Use stranded for shielded cable, or any cable that may need bending often during construction. Use any components and/or materials that meet specification and/or take your fancy. I like using as much vintage, old stock, recycled first and foremost, and then any part or component that is at least partially decent, i.e., anything made in Japan, USA, Europe. I stay clear of cheap stuff and the mega expensive. Buy what you can, when you can, I guess, as long as it is up to correct spec. Hammond transformers are good quality, nothing at all wrong with them. I use second hand, vintage transformers that meet spec, as I can source them here in New Zealand for cheap and they are very high quality, even 50 years old. I deconstruct old tube radios when I can get them cheap, but they are becoming more and more expensive now. As for an understanding of what is going on in tube amps, that is an epic journey, and one that is entirely up to you as nothing is set in stone. You can go down the quantum mechanics path and delve into particle, electron, physics... or, like me, if that makes zero sense to you, you can go down magnetic field theory, which, IMO provides significantly more understanding. However, it is an arduous journey and perhaps be prepared to un-learn everything you think you know about electricity. Drop me aline at elams1894@gmail.com if you have any questions, by all means.
Great work! I keen to build but I am having troubles sourcing the Power Transformer as they are out of stock. Is there another PT that you could recommend? I would appreciate some guidance as I am having trouble sourcing that PT. Thanks
Hi Jol. You can use any transformer you like really, as long as it's around 530V - 550V centre tapped. I use transformers sourced from a vintage tube radio. If the primary transformer from a vintage radio can power at least 4 tubes, and its in the voltage ball park, you should be fine. Which part of the world are you from?
If you want to message me on Instagram, I can give you more info like email address. I have just completed the plans for the Mark 2 version of this amp which I'm about to put on my website. Same circuit, just simplified switching for more stable output. The diagrams are far superior too. Let me know if interested.
Hi Mate, I would like to download schematic from your web site. Before I start with the project, can you please tell me what transformers are used or how much they cost. Thanks in advance.
Hi Petar. The ideal transformer used for this amp is one that can handle up to five tubes small tubes. For example, the ones that you find in small vintage tube radios. The ideal secondary voltage is around 540 volts under no load, 270v - 0 - 270v centre tapped. Also the transformer should have an additional 6.3v winding, centre tapped is ideal but you can get away with a 6.3v winding that is not tapped (just let me know as there is a separate schematic for that) An ideal transformer is one manufactured by ClassicTone in the USA, model number 40- 18085. This is a great, grunty little power transformer and will work just fine too. Cheers
I have asked but ni one has answered, maybe you could help me find out: Would it be possible to remove an Gain pot from an amp and wire in a jack and have a foot switch that controls the gain (like an volume pedal for the gain)?
bassmann446 thanks..I just thought how cool would it be if you could control knobs on your amp with an foot pedal for those moments you want a little more from it; whether your gain or volume.
Not really. They are limited in high end response and tend towards heavy distortion. If you want to get into hi-fi amps I would suggest looking at dcgillespie's threads on the audioasylum board. He has some nice simple designs.
They are red Astron replicas.they are pretty pricey and I used them as I was interested in their tone. I would say that they would be great for sparkly clean amps, however, the yellow mustards are perfect for crunch tones as they have fantastic note separation.
Hate to keep bothering you, however at 9:22 into the video you talk about Red colored resistors. You like them because they are red . Am I missing something ? Not caps.
Sorry mate, I was thinking this was a different video for so.e reason. The red things are indeed resistors, PRP brand resistors. They are metal film and look great in red. Not sure they are any better than similar brand metal films however they have long leads which I really like, cheers
Thank You wery much for taking Your time to make this serie!
You are my favorite Amp bulider, no other work i hawe seen so far on YT is even close to the beauty and the genuine build quality of those You made.
It´s realy wery inspiring watching You do all step by hand, and even building those amazing chassies and stuff.
Nice! I jsut got out of high school and started taking classes to become an electrical engineer, so practical practice and applications like this are gonna be very valuable to me. Look forwards to more!
Thats great, real good profession to get into, hope to pass on some tips and hopefully some of this info might come in handy. All the best!
Hi Jeff, I have built two of these amplifiers now, the first rough and ready, the second with better quality components and neatly. The only substantial difference in design is the use of rather larger output transformers, I prefer uncompressed output. They sound absolutely great - about the most versatile range of tones I've had. I have made quite a number of amps now, and this one has tones to beat the lot.For me it sound bestplayed through an Eminence 15in Guitar (not bass) cab I have made. The amount of sheer welly it has is surprising to those who hear it. Thanks again Chris
Hi Chris! Super sorry for late reply. Not sure how I missed your comment. So glad to hear of your builds and upgrades. Also wonderful to hear that you got alot our of the amp despite the size. I completely agree about the versatility, one can get generate alot of tones. Thanks for letting me know your feedback, much appreciated!
@@elams1894 Awesome lookign series. Im in Australia, before I buy the plans, what is the rough cost estimate for the build?
@@scottcooper6644 Thanks Scott, I'm not exactly sure what the cost is at present due to covid. It all depends what you can source from Oz. I use transformers from old NZ Bell Colt radios that cost me about 20$ a piece. Decent switches can be obtained from old radiograms and projectors that people throw out, so I grab those too. Those are real cost savers. However if you are buying new, I would estimate that thick end if 500$. If you are resourceful, you can do it a lot cheaper, depending what you have lying around. Hope you guys are doing good over the ditch, crazy times.. Cheers
@@elams1894 thanks elam! I'm finding out pretty quickly that this is an expensive hobby haha.
On resistors - Only thing I've really noticed with different resistor compositions is noise. I've built identical circuits in the past with 100% carbon comp vs 100% carbon film in the signal path; the carbon comp amps always had a considerably higher noise floor. It pains me to admit it because I love the look of old carbon comp resistors (the colours) but I can't justify using them for anything other than authenticity in old stuff. There's lots of great (albeit dense) application notes on the subject of resistor compositions and their performance in different applications if you're curious.
I'm working on some pedals right now and I designin PCB's with your stuff on in the background. Appreciate the great content as always.
Thanks Shim! I agree about the resistors. Carbon films are fantastic. I'm not a fan of carbon comps myself. metal film, or carbon film preferably when I have a very nice build to look fwd to. All the best with the pedals, cheers!
To get the full benefit of these videos, I suggest to go ahead and buy a set of the plans - even you have no intention of really building any. Believe me guys, the plans are a MASTER PIECE. What you get is worth more than TEN times what you pay for them!
Out of curiosity, Jeff, do you have any of the amps in these plans already built which one could purchase and use as a demo piece while one attempts to purchase the parts and publish or re publish - whatever is allowable by you - as a DIY kit. Looking at your design and building details, these should really sound great and quite. Am even looking at a further modification / addition to build versions using RCA input and outputs
Thanks Kofi, really appreciate the kind words. I don't have any spare amps at the moment as they go quickly, but will be building a few soon. I mainly build my amps with 230V connection so if any need to be built with 120V connections, they will have to be pre ordered. On RCA's... are you planning HiFi outputs? If so, they will need quite a bit of modification as the guitar input is low whereas HiFi is quite a bit more powerful, so input level needs to be factored in to your design. I have designed a HiFi amp circuit, email me on elams1894@gmail.com and I will send you the circuit so you can get ideas on the input. Thanks agin Kofi!
Have now completed the amp build, as far as the working chassis. Financial constraints led me to make a few cost savings, such as a decidedly second hand power transformer, but of the correct values, reduce size into a smaller chassis, and use Mallory caps in the signal path. The result sounds great to my ears. I would comment on a couple of difficulties I had. The layout diagram of where R5 and R1 terminate was difficult to interpret(for me), and I had to have a bit of a learning exercise about input impedances to work it out from the schematic. I am colour blind, and it took a while to visualise where the various switch and pot terminal are connected. I also found it had more hum than I expected, so I elevated the heater centre tap to the EL84 cathode voltage. I'm so pleased with the sound and versatility I have ordered a larger chassis and other parts to make a final, neat version.
My hat is off to your amp design skills.
That's awesome Chris! Well done. Especially regarding you using second hand parts. That's what its all about. It is a challenging layout, especially with the wee switch and sorry about the layout diagram colours, I can imagine that would be difficult. I have since overhauled the layout diagram in which I have replaced the colour terminations with actual leads. I have also made a Series 2 circuit which retains the clean/crunch switch, the channels of which have their corresponding cathode caps with no additional switching. As I like the cathode caps in their designated channels, I have removed the 2P3T switch in the Series 2 circuit. This does a couple of things, makes it a bit simpler and takes away more noise. Although that switch is a cool thing, I believe it may not be entirely necessary. Also, I have designed a GT circuit for this same WISC preamp, which has a very nice tone stack. I have completed the layout diagram for this also. If you would like these reworked circuits please give me a PM or drop me an email and I will be happy to share them with you. Cheers
Jeff, your tutorials are amazing, your are so meticulous. Thank you
Thanks Franck, you are welcome, all the best!
Really great intro presentation. Looking forward to the next episode.
Very excited. Thanks for taking the time. Need a good winter project!
New elams video! Rejoice!
Very nice videography on this one, can't wait for the rest!
Thanks Flubutur, really appreciate you tuning back in, I've MIA ha ha.
Just discovered this channel. Very nice. Excellent low key and exact presentation style as well as terrific knowledge. I'm surprised you didn't mention the outer foil marks on your vintage caps. Maybe that comes later. Finding that for caps that don't have it is a pain. Taking pot luck opens a big door to filament noise as I'm sure you know.
Thanks! Indeed very good points. I'm not actualy sure why I've not mentioned cap foil orientation. Thanks for highlighting the subject. I'll include it in the next video which is not far away. Have a great day!!
@elams1894 I have a challenge for you... build a ~100w high gain modern voiced metal amp head with turret construction or whatever you think is best. I dont know if you've already done it but if not i do know you'll nail it. The goal will be the most crushing metal tone possible.
Love the plans pack. I'm really looking forward to the next video installment!
Great to see you make videos again! Keep it up
Thanks so much, Phillipp. Thank you for stopping by again, have a great day!
Cara você é um artista!
Parabéns!
Essa Les Paul esse amplificador e aquela stratocaster são verdadeiras obras de arte!!!
Cheers. The neatness of your work reminds me of the early 70's Hiwatt.
Way to go. Great work
Thanks Funk!!
@@elams1894 Took the time to read your blog on electricity. @ least someone out there is thinking & working stuff out for themselves. Instead of parroting off whatever BS the web excretes into the vacant lot of peoples
"minds" Will @ some point purchase your entire plan suite. Bought an Epiphone valve jr as a tone improvement learning platform. Once that no longer sounds marginal (1/2 way there already & its my first). Your plans are next. Don't stop. Quality work is a rare & precious commodity.
Cheers
@@elams1894 Thankyou 😃 !
You're back!!!! I thought you had gone dormant lol. Nice to see informative content again.
Thanks for taking the time to make these videos!
nice to see you back. Great tutorial as usual. Thanks👍🏻
Thanks so much KG, really appreciate it!
Great to see you back! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks so much SK, hope you are having a great new year my friend and thanks for stopping by again. Take care!
Just subscribed! I've build a few scratch amps from schematics. Love watching this stuff!!
Thanks for posting this
Very tempting
Not sure if this is beyond me
But you got me thinking
Awesome video man, really looking forward to the rest of the series. Your work is amazing. Thanks.
Thanks Shaun! Really appreciate it, have a great day!!
Awesome work mate! Really looking forward to the rest of the series.
Thank you for coming back!!!
this is awesome - so clear and well filmed
9:25 yeah so I've been actually looking for what makes the difference with resistors.
And the difference is in produced noise, so metal film resistors would be the choice after wire wound ones.
I enjoyed the video and I think I have got a good hold on my insight into how much I have to say how delicious this is to tell you this works and I hope to be able to get the, what I'm trying to say is keep up lovely music 🎵
Classic tone! Very nice.
rockn rolly,g.! nice channel! like uncle doug+the guitologist! great art work- greetings from vienna!
Thanks FS, massively late reply but much appreciated, beautiful city brother! Take care..
Is there ever a reason not to use metal film resistors? Carbon resistors can get noisy as they age and develop micro-capacitance 'holes'. Not sure of a better way of putting that.
Hello... I was curious as to what the brand and series these red resistors were. They look really good!
Great, you're back! Congratulations with the family expansion! Bummer hearing about your current job position. What's your planning for the future? Skills enough for great custom projects. Greetings from the Netherlands. -J.K.-
Carbon comp are basically vintage high heat use the metal comp.
this is gonna be another amazing serie....as usual :)
ps. great job with the website
I can't tell you how excited I am for this! Plans have been purchased!!!... BTW, you may see me commenting as SkyScraper Guitars in the future... Not that it matters a lot, I just wanted you to know... Also, also, what old prime lenses are you using? I've got a few of those on my shopping list. Kinda fun to get away from AF technology and actually use the camera like I did 20 years ago.
Greg! Thanks so much for checking back in, thought most subscribers would have probably lost the faith by now ha. I got swamped at my previous job and had an addition to the family so spare time did not exist for me. I've since been let go from my employment hence some much needed free time. I am using mostly a Macro Takumar 50mm f4 (1:1 preset version) for this video, in addition to a Takumar 50mm f1.4. I will be also using my SMC Takumar 85mm f1.8. All are M42. They are wonderful lenses, especially the macro. If you ever come across Macro Tak preset, they are wonderful, grab it with both hands. Perhaps my best lens. Skyscraper guitars, cool, I look fwd to following the crimson guitar build, glad to see your still making vids and well done on the products and website, I saw Woodeso had a few, great stuff! Have a great day!
That's the beauty of YT... If you have to set it aside for awhile, it will be here when you come back! I'll check into those lenses. I am a bit of a photo bug!!!
Subscribed. I'm building a tube amp using an old cb radio
Best video I've seen on showing everything and explaining. Thank you very much. Many people just show parts of it or don't really know how to explain things and you end up more confused than ever. Oh, I thought you said a dollar for the whole thing, my bad. I think it is 13 dollars,right? I'll re-play the video and see what you said again!!!!! Am I looking wrong-you said a dollar but when I go to the site, it says 6 dollars for layout, 6 dollars for schematic and ,-a dollar for the layout, or am I wrong.
Thanks heaps! It is certainly 1$ for the whole plans pack. Don't worry about the other options. The whole plans pack for 1$ includes all the others. I made it one buck as an introductory offer. Thanks again!
thank you.
Very nice channel!! This is so addicting i almost forgot to like.I love to build my first music tube amp this style.
Thanks Jo Jo! Sorry for late reply, cheers
@@elams1894 Mate, you have to support this channel th-cam.com/video/AIRfUu_2A6g/w-d-xo.html please support haha i won the bingo
Thankyou for putting up your video with instructions, and making the information available. Is it possible to use a 6V6 rather than a EL84 , and to simplify it further to a single channel clean amp, with no master volume and no tone control ? cheers and thanks
Certainly is possible, that would be a grunty little amp, Fender Champ style. Cheers TG!
You’re a building genius! What kind of software do you use for your wiring & chassis designs?
Thanks bart, and cheers for instagram message!
Hi there and happy new year to you, sounds like a pretty interesting build 👍
Matt! Thanks so much for tuning in after iv been MIA all this time. Hope you are doing well and having a great new year. Real nice to hear from you, cheers.
elams1894 that's OK I do that too, sometimes I dissappear from channels or social media for a while so I can understand, thanks 🎸☺
I'm just halfway through building this amp, and as I have reviewed the values of components, I have a question about the value suggested for R22. Will a 1/2 Watt rating be enough for the EL84 cathode resistor lying so close to a large smoothing cap? In similar single ended EL84 amps I have used a larger wattage current value resistor to dissipate the heat better, and placed it away from other components. I also notice that in the board layout there is some confusion in the nomenclature of the grid resistor R21 and cathode resistor R14. I appreciate yours is up and running, so I would appreciate your comments.
Hi Chris. Thanks for the message, yes the error in layout drawing slipped out, however it's now been corrected, thanks for that. I have had no trouble with the 1/2 watt resistor in the R22 position but certainly to be on the safe side a 2 watt resistor would be a good idea. Cheers
Hey Jeff, did not know you have a web site. I'm going there now to check it out.
Hi Allen, yeah had a website just to get some amp designs out there. I've got three or four more designs completed but just haven't got the spare time at the moment. Thanks for checking in again, cheers
@@elams1894 Great web site, love the photos. I also followed on Instagram and Flickr, if you care to look at my Instagram,(I have about 30 or 40 photos posted) it is "guitarwoody". Will probably order the amp plans next time I get paid.
@@allenwoody5909 Following! Great shots of the train over the bridge. Some beautiful texture images too. Love the contrasty atmosphere of the imagery. I'm pretty keen on photography myself, just waiting to pull the trigger on a new camera, maybe the Canon R6, if i can somehow find the funds. Message me on instagram and I'll send you the plans. I have overhauled this amp somewhat, simplified the switching, and have upgraded the layout diagram. I'll send the new stuff through to you, its quite wee beast of an amp.
genio tus videos son lo mejor
hello there!
I've become pretty handy with a soldering iron over the years, yet still learned a lot from your how not to melt everything video.
I think I got building this amp, and I really aspire to learn how an amplifier actually works which is something I heard you won't when just building a kit with a circuit board.
So that's why I wanted to dive right into this actually. I live in the Netherlands though, do you have any recommendations on how to get the right parts, for instance you say solid core wire, but don't really elaborate, I assume it should be a wire that has heat-resistant insulation, right? Would you recommend specialized stores or just get stuff as cheap. For instance the olefin heat shrink I just got off of amazon.
Also, I intend to build a tube amp with none or at least minimal self noise. I heard from a specialist that this depends on the transformer, do you have any recommendations? Is the transformer on your parts list for instance up to those standards? from what the guy told me I heard they can be pretty expensive.
Hi Thijs, thanks for checking out the vids. Indeed tube amps are a fantastic journey albeit a long and windy road, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. First off, solid core cable is just solid copper, no strands. It is easier to bend, stays in place, however will break if bent too much. Use solid core for areas like filaments, or hook up wire that is intended to stay in one place. Use stranded for shielded cable, or any cable that may need bending often during construction.
Use any components and/or materials that meet specification and/or take your fancy. I like using as much vintage, old stock, recycled first and foremost, and then any part or component that is at least partially decent, i.e., anything made in Japan, USA, Europe. I stay clear of cheap stuff and the mega expensive. Buy what you can, when you can, I guess, as long as it is up to correct spec.
Hammond transformers are good quality, nothing at all wrong with them. I use second hand, vintage transformers that meet spec, as I can source them here in New Zealand for cheap and they are very high quality, even 50 years old. I deconstruct old tube radios when I can get them cheap, but they are becoming more and more expensive now.
As for an understanding of what is going on in tube amps, that is an epic journey, and one that is entirely up to you as nothing is set in stone. You can go down the quantum mechanics path and delve into particle, electron, physics... or, like me, if that makes zero sense to you, you can go down magnetic field theory, which, IMO provides significantly more understanding. However, it is an arduous journey and perhaps be prepared to un-learn everything you think you know about electricity. Drop me aline at elams1894@gmail.com if you have any questions, by all means.
Great work! I keen to build but I am having troubles sourcing the Power Transformer as they are out of stock. Is there another PT that you could recommend? I would appreciate some guidance as I am having trouble sourcing that PT. Thanks
Hi Jol. You can use any transformer you like really, as long as it's around 530V - 550V centre tapped. I use transformers sourced from a vintage tube radio. If the primary transformer from a vintage radio can power at least 4 tubes, and its in the voltage ball park, you should be fine. Which part of the world are you from?
If you want to message me on Instagram, I can give you more info like email address. I have just completed the plans for the Mark 2 version of this amp which I'm about to put on my website. Same circuit, just simplified switching for more stable output. The diagrams are far superior too. Let me know if interested.
Hi Mate, I would like to download schematic from your web site. Before I start with the project, can you please tell me what transformers are used or how much they cost. Thanks in advance.
Hi Petar. The ideal transformer used for this amp is one that can handle up to five tubes small tubes. For example, the ones that you find in small vintage tube radios. The ideal secondary voltage is around 540 volts under no load, 270v - 0 - 270v centre tapped. Also the transformer should have an additional 6.3v winding, centre tapped is ideal but you can get away with a 6.3v winding that is not tapped (just let me know as there is a separate schematic for that)
An ideal transformer is one manufactured by ClassicTone in the USA, model number 40- 18085. This is a great, grunty little power transformer and will work just fine too. Cheers
Ive heard carbon resistors shift their values overtime
Yes their values can drift which, I guess, can give rise to unique tones over time.
thank you so much for this! i might've just missed it, but what will be the estimated price of the build?
Thank you! This amp costs around $500 USD to build. Cheers
This is awesome!
Hello sir, would like to know if this amp. or rather two of them could be used in conjunction with stereo preamp for tape or vinyl records repro?
Muito Bommmm
I have asked but ni one has answered, maybe you could help me find out:
Would it be possible to remove an Gain pot from an amp and wire in a jack and have a foot switch that controls the gain (like an volume pedal for the gain)?
Yes. Use a TRS jack with a stereo cable to foot pedal with the potentiometer from the amp. I would highly recommend using fully shielded cable.
bassmann446 thanks..I just thought how cool would it be if you could control knobs on your amp with an foot pedal for those moments you want a little more from it; whether your gain or volume.
Carbon resistors are far superior
You must be in New Zealand, bro! Where are you based?
Auckland, kiwi indeed, yourself? Cheers
Nice! New Plymouth for me. Good to see some good home-grown electronics vids!! Rock On, bro!
10 thumbs down? Really?
Do you have a brand of those red resistors?
+Matt Tucker Yes they are PRP resistors, US manufacturer.
are they viable as hi-fi amps,?
Not really. They are limited in high end response and tend towards heavy distortion. If you want to get into hi-fi amps I would suggest looking at dcgillespie's threads on the audioasylum board. He has some nice simple designs.
What brand are the resistors ? Thx.
I use either Jupiter Vintage Tones or Sozo yellow caps, both are mustard replicas. They sound outstanding to my ears. Thanks
The red 1% resistors ?
They are red Astron replicas.they are pretty pricey and I used them as I was interested in their tone. I would say that they would be great for sparkly clean amps, however, the yellow mustards are perfect for crunch tones as they have fantastic note separation.
Hate to keep bothering you, however at 9:22 into the video you talk about Red colored resistors. You like them because they are red . Am I missing something ? Not caps.
Sorry mate, I was thinking this was a different video for so.e reason. The red things are indeed resistors, PRP brand resistors. They are metal film and look great in red. Not sure they are any better than similar brand metal films however they have long leads which I really like, cheers
I have a beautiful tube amp I'm afraid to work on let alone build one😃 very expencive too.
0:02 my name jeff
got it -thanks-Good trick making us give email address!!!!!
Alligator or crocodile clip? I think it's crocodile lol
Pay for schematics.. Haha, that was a good one xD
Like a buck is going to break the bank.
Hi, I sent you a message via your blog email address.
What brand are those red resistors?