Best beginner project

[andySweden]

Hi!

I'm a newy when it comes to DIY. But I'm planning to make my own amplifier. Of course, I would like to get the best out of my money. So what I want is:
-easy to make
-as pure sound as possible (Class A?)
-a kit would be preferred (or at least directions of which components that needs to be good quality / order list)

Can anyone out there give me a good piece of advice on how to think or a tip of where to find such an amplifier?

Thanks a lot
andy

[danielwritesbac]

I think that the best beginner project is several beginner projects.

The sounds of LM (gainclone), Thompson, and Tripath are all remarkably different.

In addition to that, there's variety of scale, as in how much amplifier power do your speakers require before reaching a satisfying output?

Let's say that you had to choose one of the following:
1). A very forwards midrange, with clear treble and high resolution bass--quite good for television or critical analysis of audio signals.
2). A clear midband with a wide open presentation, level frequency response according to the human ear, and decent bass and treble--more musically realistic although slightly less revealing.
3). A remarkable, and award winning clarity, although slightly more upper treble (air) than usual--with this being the sole (and pleasant) exception to both a precise and musical presentation.

Everyone's ears, speakers, amplifiers and personal tastes are different. So, which would you choose?

[andySweden]

Thanx danielwritesbac for writing back

Yeah, you would like it to be just ONE that is good, and the rest is BAD, but I know that's not the case.

I was thinking of making a couple of Plutos to the amp. So no need for mazzive output! And I guess that also answers your qst about which sound would fit me: open, clear. In time, I've thought of making the subs as well, but since I live in an appartment... That will anyway be later on.

Since I'm a beginner, it would be great with an understandable construction guide as well.

andy

[KP11520]

Hi Andy,

I think he is asking you which of those three scenarios you would prefer before he makes a recommendation to you.

Read his post again carefully and respond. You might just get what you asked for! Guidance!

Good luck!

Regards//Keith

[andySweden]

Sorry, I thought I was being clear, but I now see I wasn't.

If I were to choose a number, I would probably choose number 2 - realistic to the human ear.

Thank you!
andy

[KP11520]

OK Daniel,

It's unanimous, we both would have to say #2. (I am interested in this too) There are some nice and some bad aspects of the other two choices but if I had to pick one, I'm with Andy.

I would also like to say that my speakers are not the most efficient. ProAc Studio 1 Mk IIs, 88 db at 1 watt at 1 meter.

Recommend away!

Thanks!

Regards//Keith

[seventenths]

Why not try a minimalist GainClone, dead-bug fashion?

*Very inexpensive
*Simple execution
*Pleasing performance
*tweak-able to your hearts content


7/10

[digi01]

i agreed with seventenths,
dead-bug fashion can help you very fast know how

zang

[danielwritesbac]

That was cool!

Okay,
#1 gainclone (LM chip amp)
#2 thompson (ST chip amp)
#3 tripath (durable class D amp)

Of the three, its #2 that has the most immediate gratification--the big sound of Bose in under half an hour.
However, #1 has more tonal possibilities, and they do vary by model as well--great for self-amplified speaker projects and for clearly audiable voice in home theatre as well.
And, #3 can give you the best of both, while easily paying back that extra hour of soldering because the overall timeframe for satisfaction can be shorter or similar at end result.

I do think that you should experience all three. Are there some friends in your area that would like to do projects with you? Its so much more fun that way.

That's the point. Have fun!

EDIT: Support components and power are quite similar between #1 and #2, so you could easily try both.

[lanchile07]

Hello Andy!
Well,I have build three LM3875 integrated amps and the result is always the same,CLEAR,FAST and DETAIL amps.
build an amp using Peter Daniel "Audiosector.com" boards is easy and if you fallow all the steps you will end up with a wonderful amp.if I were you,I would go for the LM3875 no doubt!.