SOLID STATE AMP KIT FOR BEGINNGERS? NEED SOME DIRECTION

[ChrisMan123]

This summer a friend and I plan to possibly build an amplifier. This is a first time project for both of us. Solid state seems more feasible both financially and experience wise. Some sort of Solid State amplifier build kit might be best for us to start with and gain some experience. Many of which are under 8 watts though and being in bands and such, we were looking for something a little higher in power. Possibly 25 watts and up? We plan on pairing it with a speaker cabinet, and it will not be a headphone amp.

The main question is:
Are there any Solid State amplifier build kits out there that anyone knows of, that are good for a beginner level amp build as well as somewhat powerful nearing the 20watt arena? And also, something that's not going to throw us over budget, it doesn't have to sound amazing, we already own amps for that, we just want the experience and some sort of decent sounding amp with tonal control.

Something middle of the road would be great, relatively inexpensive yet sounds pretty good would be ideal!

If you need any more information from us to better assist us, please let me know. Thanks for the help!

[us3rx]

The short answer is yes, What price limit have you set?

[jerryo]

Hi,
you might take a look at "Velleman", "Jaycar" or "Quasar" kits for a start. Google the names and you will find out at least if they are available near you. Others here might point you in other directions. "Maplin" electronics is another one to consider.

For an amazing source of audio electronics information and pcb's for amps etc go to
Eliot Sound Products.......in fact I would start there.

[ByronInLawrence]

I built an LM3886 kit from ChipAmp.com for my first amp. It's about as beginner-friendly as you're going to find, though it doesn't have tone controls. The instructions even have a little tutorial on soldering.