Tube Amp Kit Suggestions

[baltimoreblues]

I am thinking of buying a cheap kit to start with for practice on leaning more about how these what I consider wonderful sounding amps are built. Any suggestions on cheap beginner kits would be much appreciated. I can read all day but need to solder and conect to learn, at least that is my therory.
thanks in advance JOHN

[planet10]

The K12-M is a popular low budget entry level kit.

http://diyaudioprojects.com/Tubes/K-12M/K-12M.htm

dave

[gmilitano]

The K-12 kits are ideal for a beginner and deliver good performance for the cost.

Here are a number of K-12 Tube Amplifier Kits. Keep in mind that the kit does not come with an enclosure.

Good luck.

[tinitus]

This one looks nice too, but only max 4watt...I dont think it has been around long enough to have any rewievs here, assembled and tested board

http://www.engineeringvista.com/audi...ictures_m1.htm

Maybe a bit more difficult, cant say but I think it looks nice, complete kit

http://gabevee.tripod.com/cgv0606.html

And the obvious choice, but no kit

http://www.tubelab.com/SimpleSE.htm

And this sweet thing, seems to be a complete kit

http://www.hawthorneaudio.com/spud_kit.htm

http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/....htm#parts.htm
http://pages.prodigy.net/jimmcshane/elcheapo.htm

[gofar99]

Hi John, There is another similar thread on this subject in this section. The K-12 is a good performer for the price. As a first time kit it is pretty easy to build a working amp. As was noted, it is without a case and depending on your situation this is a potentially serious problem. Hot tubes and exposed voltages are not kid or spouse friendly (could be a problem for house pets too). Welcome to the tube family.
Bruce

[baltimoreblues]

Thanks Bruce and everyone for the leads on some projects to look into. I have a few tube amps that I am currently using, and some that need work. Have a pair of Bogen 110's that are hooked to a pair of KLHs that sound so sweet it is unreal.
I have a larger setup consisting of pair of Dynaco MK IVs driving Bozak symps B-4000s. And I just love lps, the blues grew up with the blues playin listening just enjoyin.
BUT.... i have no working knowledge of amps dont do my own repairs and have yet to find a decent small scale repair person who I can use, so I feel it is time to learn. Start slow see how it goes. Anyone want to kick around some ideas feel free, I cant use private messaging yet because I am new to group so cant get into any detail questions yet.
Enjoy, JOHN

[gofar99]

Hi John, email me at gofar99@hotmail.com if you desire. I may have a few ideas for you.

[ambience exists]

HELLO,

I am planning on making the now almost cliche S-5 kits!

Which company do you think would be the best bet, "tubeaudio.com" or Antique Electric Supply?

((AE))

[gofar99]

Hi, Either source is fine. I personally like dealing with AES. Not always the lowest price, but extremely responsive to my needs. Good luck with your build. There are several mods possible for this amp.

Good listening
Bruce

[audiowize]

For a beginner, a point-to-point kit will generally teach you a lot more, while a board will be a quicker build, but you won't really learn anything about layout, grounding, etc.