PCBs for Zen/Aleph project

[needtubes]

I've been interested in the Zen amp since I first read about them all. I've been torn between the desire to build a tube amp or a Pass amp. Either way, I only want pure ClassA with SE output.

I used to be a "go-getter" with the DIY thing. I was thrilled to spend ALL of my spare time breadboarding circuits and trying them out. I am burned out now... Quite lazy, more to do... I want, well, need, a PCB or I will likely never build anything again. I am tired of making my own layouts for things and having to troubleshoot if I screw something up.

Anyway, I haven't read about the Zen amps in a while... I am not thrilled by the Zen v4 (which I know PCBs are available for) because of the output caps. I know, supposedly you can't hear them... But I am one of those strange individuals that if I know something is there and I don't like it or don't want it to be, it will alter my opinion of the whole thing.

Any PCB's out there for Alephs of Zens (SOZ maybe... or SOZ with Aleph current sources, etc.)? I do need fairly high efficiency, as I cannot (and won't) spend a fortune on an amp. Thanks for any pointers

[Nelson Pass]

Most of the Alephs have an output cap, but the most interesting
one without any caps is the SOZ. It's so simple wiring up the
power resistors and two transistors that a circuit board is almost
useless, and there is so little circuitry (and no feedback) that
it won't keep you awake at night thinking about it.

On the downside, it's very inefficient, and appeals more to the
heavy hardware types. Also the output impedance is high -
enough to be considered a current source. That could be good
or bad (check the articles on www.firstwatt.com )

If you can use that output impedance, I think it's one of the
best sounding of the lot.

[kilowattski]

needtubes,,

As Nelson Pass said, these are Class A amps so efficiency is low. If you are looking for efficiency have a look in the Class D forum. If you need modest power though, and are willing to deal with slightly larger hardware, there is a mini Aleph Group PCB group buy forming now. The Aleph can be scaled up or down by increasing or decreasing the amount of output devices, power supply size and bias to get the power you want. I think if you were to listen to an Aleph, you would be quite pleased. There are alot of guys here who could help you optimize your Aleph. I think it would be well worth your effort.

[needtubes]

Thanks for the replies.

The mini-Aleph looks quite interesting. So it does 10W output just with the standard boards? And if you add the extra output devices, it'll do... 30W or so?

I know Class A is inefficient... when I said "fairly efficient" I meant moreso than the 2% efficiency of the SOZ. So, more like 10%.

I'll keep my eye on the Mini-A thread... how hard are those SMD devices to solder? My hands are a little shaky...

[GRollins]

A Mini-A with SMDs? Yikes! No one asked my permission!
Just kidding.
If you're masochist enough to want to diddle with itty-bitty little pieces the size of an ant, more power to you.
Yes, a 'stock' Mini-A is good for around 10W into 8 ohms. If you start pushing it towards 25-30W, then go ahead and build an Aleph 3 or 30.

Grey

[GRollins]

Is it just me, or is there a smidgen of irony inherent in someone travelling under the name "needtubes" being bothered by DC blocking caps?

Grey