It's not terribly exciting.
The store sells various products to help make it easier for DIYers to find various parts / projects they may want.
The forum is set up to bring together a community of people that like to discuss all things DIY audio related among many other things.
They are separate, but related, entities.
Correct. You can also design your own circuit and boards as another option. You can buy boards in "Group Buys", directly from other people, through hamfests, from other suppliers like Bottlehead etc. etc. etc. There are lots of ways to find what you may need. We hope to have a few things people may want.
Correct. We also link to other resources in some cases. Perhaps think of it like going to a hardware store. They generally expect the buyer to know how to use the product. If you go to the customer service counter at a hardware store and ask how to wire your home after buying a spool of wire and some boxes, they probably won't be of much help. If you go to an auto parts store and purchase an alternator, they likely won't tell you how to install it, nevertheless build a car around it. We try to be a little more helpful and point toward additional resources. We don't design any of the circuits. More importantly, no one is an EE or generally qualified to provide direct support for "how" to build your project, but we try to help where we can.
Some projects have build guides (graciously written by DIYers). It is up to you, the DIYer, to understand your ability to take on a project with the resources available to you and choose accordingly. I'll be the first to admit that it took me over a year to build my first project. I bit off a little more than I could chew, but the members in the forum were incredible, and I wound up with a successful build. One of my personal goals has been to try to make it easier for other new builders to get started, choose an appropriate first project for their level of knowledge and ability, and have some fun. I was completely overwhelmed, but with encouragement from new friends, I made it through.
Hopefully the people in the forum will be helpful, but that's not always the situation. I generally (if asked) advise that people get most questions answered to ensure they'll stand the best chance of success before choosing a project.
If you feel like you should have received more support, I'd welcome suggestions for how we can be more clear on the store's website. PM me or feel free to contact the store helpdesk if you'd like to share thoughts for how we can help ensure people better understand what they may be taking on when they purchase specific products. We've experimented with "ratings" and "levels", but it's clearly not perfect.
Long story short, you bought PCBs. I would have hoped you'd know how to use them before purchasing them, or that you'd be able to figure it out "with a little help from your friends", so to speak. If not, we'll happily take them back within the guidelines on the diyAudiostore.com website. Yep, it's a pretty sweet situation for a lot of DIYers.
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Just to refer to your "spool of wire" or "alternator" comparison which is completely off and a bit insulting.
A few examples of how I tailor my questions:
1. Which transistor is better for this PSU as both are in the BOM, transistor X or transistor Y as one is twice the price than the other?
2. Is this resistor A a good substitute for obsolete Panasonic resistor B?
3. Will this capacitor C1 - C8 type X do for the 45 0 45 800 VA transformer on the universal PSU build?
I went through all the documentation suggested by the store. Used the BOM provided, filled out what I was knowledgeable to do, and tailored the questions for what I'm not knowledgeable enough to ask the comunity (as suggested on the store). Never went with the "spool of wire" approach you're suggesting.
I hope your way of thinking does not represent the rest of the community when it comes to beginers bucause you're way off.
EDIT: attached the BOM so you can see it for yourself
A few examples of how I tailor my questions:
1. Which transistor is better for this PSU as both are in the BOM, transistor X or transistor Y as one is twice the price than the other?
2. Is this resistor A a good substitute for obsolete Panasonic resistor B?
3. Will this capacitor C1 - C8 type X do for the 45 0 45 800 VA transformer on the universal PSU build?
I went through all the documentation suggested by the store. Used the BOM provided, filled out what I was knowledgeable to do, and tailored the questions for what I'm not knowledgeable enough to ask the comunity (as suggested on the store). Never went with the "spool of wire" approach you're suggesting.
I hope your way of thinking does not represent the rest of the community when it comes to beginers bucause you're way off.
EDIT: attached the BOM so you can see it for yourself
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"Long story short, you bought PCBs. I would have hoped you'd know how to use them before purchasing them, or that you'd be able to figure it out "with a little help from your friends", so to speak. If not, we'll happily take them back within the guidelines on the diyAudiostore.com website. Yep, it's a pretty sweet situation for a lot of DIYers."
Just wow.
Just wow.
And btw, this is what I'm doing to "give back", to help more beginers like me, and keep the beginers out of the seniors realm, as obviously it's not working anyway. And it should help the store as well, as the project will become more approachable, doable and straight forward which means more PCBs sold.
C/P from my other post:
"BTW, I'm creating a package that could be used by all beginners like me or anyone that want's to build this amp but doesn't have time or knowledge to search and hunt all the bits and peaces from different threads here, and different vendor websites. What I'm thinking of including is:
1. PSU parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
2. Amp parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
3. Soft start parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
4. Speaker protection parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
5. Any other parts vendor specific lists if any
6. Direct links to purchase all needed PCBs, transformer, chassis and auxiliaries
7. Build documentation
The idea is to have all bundled up in one place and organized.
Please let me know if you see any value in this and if you think there is something else I could include to it to make this build more straight forward..."
C/P from my other post:
"BTW, I'm creating a package that could be used by all beginners like me or anyone that want's to build this amp but doesn't have time or knowledge to search and hunt all the bits and peaces from different threads here, and different vendor websites. What I'm thinking of including is:
1. PSU parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
2. Amp parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
3. Soft start parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
4. Speaker protection parts list that is directly importable to digikey basket with resolved specs for specific build
5. Any other parts vendor specific lists if any
6. Direct links to purchase all needed PCBs, transformer, chassis and auxiliaries
7. Build documentation
The idea is to have all bundled up in one place and organized.
Please let me know if you see any value in this and if you think there is something else I could include to it to make this build more straight forward..."
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I never meant for it to be insulting. My apologies. The analogy was simply intended to convey that you purchased "parts". You seem to think that some level of support around the purchase of the "parts" is expected, or am I misinterpreting?
Yes, and all of those are incredible questions. The designers of the circuit and or knowledgeable members of the forum may be willing to answer them for you.
As mentioned, they are great questions. Where I am trying to differentiate is from whom you seem to "expect" answers.
Perhaps. I only offered one perspective.
Just wow! 😉
I love it! I'll happily help any way that I can.
With all best intentions. My posts were not meant to instigate or poke or go with a point-counter-point. I clearly am not the best communicator, so please, if anything offended you, accept my apologies. They were meant to help and inform and perhaps provide a perspective along with a bit of fun and personal experience. There are literally 3 people (none full time) that operate the store. We do it because we love the community and want to have some nice projects / boards / parts that DIYers may want to have fun with.
To that end. I really do personally want you to have fun and have a successful build.
Cheers!
All good, no need to apologize.
I don't "expect" answers as there is no official support on the parts purchase.
I was hoping for answers from the place referred by the store as "go there if you have any questions" place.
Who knows, maybe I'll get them eventually. Time will tell.
Thank you for your good wishes, I hope they will come true.
Cheers!
^ Fantastic! I appreciate the understanding re: my perhaps 'brisque' communication. When I try to be direct and factual, I seem to come off as an A$$. It's never my intention. When what seems to be a misunderstanding starts to brew, usually ... it's me.
We'll see what answers come around. If they don't, we can find them. I think what you've seen is that the forum really is 'the place' to find the answers you need. Perhaps they come slowly. My commitment from a "forum member" and a "store" perspective is that if you're / we're able to create a consolidated document of some sort, I'll ensure that it has a place of prominence as a link from the store to point others that may be considering building the Honey Badger or PSUs toward better resources. That's everyone's goal.
Separate, but related - This is one, very-limited, perspective (mine). Because the Honey Badger is a bit of an 'older' project, there's a lot less of an engaged community around it specifically. However, there's a few people (that you've already engaged) that can help out. If you don't get what you need, we can find it. I'm never one of the people that says, "It's in the thread somewhere. Just read."
Cheers,
Patrick
We'll see what answers come around. If they don't, we can find them. I think what you've seen is that the forum really is 'the place' to find the answers you need. Perhaps they come slowly. My commitment from a "forum member" and a "store" perspective is that if you're / we're able to create a consolidated document of some sort, I'll ensure that it has a place of prominence as a link from the store to point others that may be considering building the Honey Badger or PSUs toward better resources. That's everyone's goal.
Separate, but related - This is one, very-limited, perspective (mine). Because the Honey Badger is a bit of an 'older' project, there's a lot less of an engaged community around it specifically. However, there's a few people (that you've already engaged) that can help out. If you don't get what you need, we can find it. I'm never one of the people that says, "It's in the thread somewhere. Just read."
Cheers,
Patrick
^ The new Deluxe chassis will be launched... soon... Every time we think we have it nailed down, something else comes up. So, I'm reluctant to even speculate on a date moving forward.
The back panel parts kits (the 'previous' version) will likely not be stocked again. It is being replaced by a new kit to go along with the new chassis.
When? We will hopefully have the back panel kits available on the same day as the chassis, but it could be a week or more after.
That's a long way of saying... if you're looking for one of the previous kits for an existing Deluxe chassis, we've got a full parts list available on the store site including the part number for the PEM. They're mostly commonly available parts you can source. The only thing that's fairly unique is the binding posts, which we now sell separately, for exactly that reason. We don't want to hold up people's fun.
If you are waiting for the new chassis, and the new back panel kit; it will hopefully (crossing fingers) be within a week with the back panel kits either same day or shortly following within a few weeks.
To stay up to date, we try to post regularly in the thread linked below.
Hope that helps.
The back panel parts kits (the 'previous' version) will likely not be stocked again. It is being replaced by a new kit to go along with the new chassis.
When? We will hopefully have the back panel kits available on the same day as the chassis, but it could be a week or more after.
That's a long way of saying... if you're looking for one of the previous kits for an existing Deluxe chassis, we've got a full parts list available on the store site including the part number for the PEM. They're mostly commonly available parts you can source. The only thing that's fairly unique is the binding posts, which we now sell separately, for exactly that reason. We don't want to hold up people's fun.
If you are waiting for the new chassis, and the new back panel kit; it will hopefully (crossing fingers) be within a week with the back panel kits either same day or shortly following within a few weeks.
To stay up to date, we try to post regularly in the thread linked below.
Hope that helps.
Whit this new Deluxe version and the advice to go with the Wolverine build, how these two tie together if at all?^ The new Deluxe chassis will be launched... soon... Every time we think we have it nailed down, something else comes up. So, I'm reluctant to even speculate on a date moving forward.
The back panel parts kits (the 'previous' version) will likely not be stocked again. It is being replaced by a new kit to go along with the new chassis.
When? We will hopefully have the back panel kits available on the same day as the chassis, but it could be a week or more after.
That's a long way of saying... if you're looking for one of the previous kits for an existing Deluxe chassis, we've got a full parts list available on the store site including the part number for the PEM. They're mostly commonly available parts you can source. The only thing that's fairly unique is the binding posts, which we now sell separately, for exactly that reason. We don't want to hold up people's fun.
If you are waiting for the new chassis, and the new back panel kit; it will hopefully (crossing fingers) be within a week with the back panel kits either same day or shortly following within a few weeks.
To stay up to date, we try to post regularly in the thread linked below.
Hope that helps.
Is there any custom drilling or other modes needed with the new chassis? Please advise and as always much appreciated!
It definitely will, but the Wolverine requires a custom drill just for that project. It also depends on the output devices that you choose (if I recall correctly) along with which version of the Wolverine you choose to build.
The good news is that Gianluca (Modushop / Hifi200) has that drill pattern directly from the Wolverine team. Stuart and the 'Wolverine team' can best advise, b/c we don't sell those boards / parts etc. from the store, and I'm far from an expert on that project. However, it's an amazing amplifier, and they're absolutely wonderful guys. I'd just make sure that the new version (V5? perhaps) doesn't have a new drill pattern, and if so, that you get it.
Hi Guys,
This time, we are offering the new and improved Wolverine V5 boards, along with supporting parts and boards:
The IPS, EF3-3, EF3-4 and EF3-5 boards will now include mirrored versions for Left and Right channels! These allow inputs at the rear of your chassis and outputs on the lower heatsink half, all...
Please register your details for the Wolverine 5th Group Buy - Pre Order.
After the success of the past four group buys and increasing demand for Wolverine boards, we are thrilled to announce another group buy for the DiyAudio community.This time, we are offering the new and improved Wolverine V5 boards, along with supporting parts and boards:
The IPS, EF3-3, EF3-4 and EF3-5 boards will now include mirrored versions for Left and Right channels! These allow inputs at the rear of your chassis and outputs on the lower heatsink half, all...
I think that thread also has a link to a discussion thread. The discussion/build thread is yet another loooooong thread with lots of information. However, if you ask pretty much any questions, the actual folks that designed that circuit and refined it can answer ALL your questions. The level of support I've seen them provide is exceptional.
So not sure if you are decided on the power supply board but have a look at the w12 - https://www.etsy.com/listing/1445849437 . I’m using it on my m2x and found it to be a pretty nice board. Great instructions and the parts were pretty easy to get. The resistors are different and a little finicky but once you figure out the first one the rest are pretty easy. I would ask Randy on etsy for his thoughts on that board for your amp before buying it just to be certain
The w12 may end up saving you a lot of precious space in the case over the other options i dont know. Check the measurements for both options
The w12 may end up saving you a lot of precious space in the case over the other options i dont know. Check the measurements for both options
@dovla83
I am a relatively new builder when compared to most folks on this forum. The advice from ItsAllInMyHead is top notch and I did not read his posts as insulting in any way. In fact they resonated with me knowing what I know now.
To one of his points, the Wolverine is not a simple build, but does have a lot of documentation and an entire support team. They just released a 5th GB last week. I personally would not build the Honey Badger for that reason. (I have not built either the Honey Badger or the Wolverine for the record). I think part of the reason you have not got a lot of feedback on the Honey Badger is not many folks are building that anymore.
Additionally, I'd like to suggest in my humble opinion that you consider some of the Nelson Pass Class A amp projects in the store right now geared towards early builders. The F5m and Aleph Jzm both come to mind as they have fantastic build guides and lots of people are building these amps currently (I've built two of each over the past year!). Just my two cents and something to consider before buying a lot of parts for the Honey Badger only to realize as you dig deeper that you may want to go down a different path.
[EDIT] For all little more context, I started the diyaudio journey back in 2014 building ACA monos, then built a bunch of the different preamp/headphone kits (Korg, Starving Student, ACP+, Whammy), however only in January of 2024 did I embark on my first AC mains amp with linear PSU. I'm so glad I was able to be an early builder of the Aleph Jzm. The build guide is top notch and the folks supporting on the thread are very helpful. Oh, and did I forget to mention it sounds amazing! So does the F5m 😀
I am a relatively new builder when compared to most folks on this forum. The advice from ItsAllInMyHead is top notch and I did not read his posts as insulting in any way. In fact they resonated with me knowing what I know now.
To one of his points, the Wolverine is not a simple build, but does have a lot of documentation and an entire support team. They just released a 5th GB last week. I personally would not build the Honey Badger for that reason. (I have not built either the Honey Badger or the Wolverine for the record). I think part of the reason you have not got a lot of feedback on the Honey Badger is not many folks are building that anymore.
Additionally, I'd like to suggest in my humble opinion that you consider some of the Nelson Pass Class A amp projects in the store right now geared towards early builders. The F5m and Aleph Jzm both come to mind as they have fantastic build guides and lots of people are building these amps currently (I've built two of each over the past year!). Just my two cents and something to consider before buying a lot of parts for the Honey Badger only to realize as you dig deeper that you may want to go down a different path.
[EDIT] For all little more context, I started the diyaudio journey back in 2014 building ACA monos, then built a bunch of the different preamp/headphone kits (Korg, Starving Student, ACP+, Whammy), however only in January of 2024 did I embark on my first AC mains amp with linear PSU. I'm so glad I was able to be an early builder of the Aleph Jzm. The build guide is top notch and the folks supporting on the thread are very helpful. Oh, and did I forget to mention it sounds amazing! So does the F5m 😀
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I really like Randy's boards, but I believe the W12 is for dual mono PSU. If you want stereo PSU, I would go with the "Dual Rail Decoupled CRC Power Supply". Randy even put a wonderful build guide together for it. It can be found in the Aleph Classic thread. It's the PDF file named "F5 New original build guide". You'll see it in the Aleph Jzm build guide as well.
@birdbox
I did build Akitika amp, Akitika preamp, ACA and Korg tube preamp and I would say that to my knowledge, Akitika gear was not beginner level (at least for me). I don't mind trying out complex builds as long as I can get the info needed, as a beginner of course.
Both Akitika gear and ACA + Korg had a very good documentation so these builds were pretty much straight forward and I was able to finish them on my own without any external help (except ACA where I had a bad cap and the guys here diagnosed it pretty quickly!). Both F5 (I dig F5T) and Aleph are on my list to build, but for the next project I would like something more beefier like HB or Wolverine.
I think at this point the Wolverine is #1 pick and I'm plowing through the forum thread as we speak trying to figure out what I need to order.
Once again thanks everyone for all the tips and suggestions, it really means a lot for a beginner like me! Cheers!
I did build Akitika amp, Akitika preamp, ACA and Korg tube preamp and I would say that to my knowledge, Akitika gear was not beginner level (at least for me). I don't mind trying out complex builds as long as I can get the info needed, as a beginner of course.
Both Akitika gear and ACA + Korg had a very good documentation so these builds were pretty much straight forward and I was able to finish them on my own without any external help (except ACA where I had a bad cap and the guys here diagnosed it pretty quickly!). Both F5 (I dig F5T) and Aleph are on my list to build, but for the next project I would like something more beefier like HB or Wolverine.
I think at this point the Wolverine is #1 pick and I'm plowing through the forum thread as we speak trying to figure out what I need to order.
Once again thanks everyone for all the tips and suggestions, it really means a lot for a beginner like me! Cheers!
Dual mono is what I was looking when planning HB, so probably will like to do the same for W.
Ok, I got confused reading all the posts about using one transformer, but I now see the AnteK AN-8445 has 4 secondaries, so totally works for dual mono PSU.