New Build Recommendation: F5 Turbo v3 or Aleph X
 

Just planning on my first DIY amp. Lots of reading and research has led me to the F5 turbo v3 and Aleph X. So I'm trying to decide which amp to build.

My speakers are max 200W and 4 ohm and I'm planning on monoblocks.

So, what are the differences between these amps in regards to the following:

- build complexity
- best suited to higher power output
- differences in sound &/or sound quality over bass, mid & high (subjective I know but people's opinion would be appreciated)

Thanks in advance for replies.

[...in case anyone else is trying to make the same decision]


....after a bit more research and discussion with DIYaudio member oneplustwo (thanks heaps) I've decided to go with the F5 Turbo V3 for the following reasons:

- There is more information & discussion out about the F5 and its newer versions.

- The F5 has been around for a long time and is a tried and tested amp.

- The schematics are readily available.

- It is reported to be a simpler build than the Aleph X.

- There is enough power in the v3 for my speakers and my needs, and the only reason I was going to go for the Aleph X was for the extra power.

So it's F5 Game On time!:up::up::up::up:

What is the impedance and efficiency of your speakers? Model and make?

Impedance: 4 ohm
Efficiency/Sensitivity: 90dB

They are Krix Neuphonix (Krix experience sound - Home Entertainment - Product Detail - Neuphonix)


http://www.krix.com.au/library/main_neuphonix.jpg


From Krix website:

Frequency Range: 30Hz - 40kHz in room response

Power Handling: Maximum 200 watts RMS amplifier power

Sensitivity: 90dB for 2.83 volts at 1 metre

Configuration: 6 driver 3-way bi-wirable / bi-ampable

Bass Driver(s): 4 x nominal 130mm (5") coated paper cones. 26mm (1") voice coil wound on high powered aluminium former provides good linearity and driver control at large cone excursion

Midrange Driver: 1 x nominal 130mm (5") coated paper cone. 26mm (1") voice coil wound on high powered aluminium former, using copper shorting ring and oversized magnet for lower distortion

Tweeter: 26mm (1") dual concentric diaphragm with wave-guide centre plug for controlled directivity. Non-reflective dual chambered magnet structure with copper shorting ring to lower distortion

Crossover Points: 340Hz & 2.5kHz

Impedance: Nominally 4 ohms

Enclosure Type: Dual chambers – sealed midrange chamber, with bass reflex main chamber, rear vented with internal / external flaring

Dimensions: 1065mm high x 230mm wide x 430mm deep

Material: 19mm MDF enclosure, heavily braced, with 25mm MDF front baffle

Finish: Lacquered timber veneer

Volume: 68 litres internal

Weight: 31kg each

with 4ohm impedance, and 90db at 2.83V= 90db at 2W/1M. or 87db 1W/1M.

Thanks for the calculations, AudioSan.

Also I was trying to find your review/impressions of the F5 Turbo v3 but couldn't see a post. Can you point me in the right direction, if it exists?

they're not finnished yet. still missing some alu for the chassis.

OK Thanks. I'll keep an eye out for it later.

And what about your music taste? I am A/Bing F5Tv2 and Aleph 60 now... Tough choice... :-)

:confused: Who has built one? Using what boards? I'm only curious, I didn't think there were any out in the field yet.

The other 100WPC Pass DIY solution is a pair of F4 and a balanced preamp. Nobody ever remembers that...