Hey there. Its been a while since I had this silly idea: What do you think about using PCB slot sockets for tube amp builds?
This PCB slot sockets idea was used by Sansui, for instance in the AU999.
I like PCBs but dont like to mount tube sockets on them as they tend to get loose over time or break solder pads.
Perhaps one could have tube sockets mounted on chassis and wire each tube electrode to the slot socket and then have the PCB with main circuit connected to that slot socket.
Heater connection can still be outside the PCB.
Of course pcb design and layout is important here, for instance to have grid stoppers resistors as closely to the grid as possible.
This PCB slot sockets idea was used by Sansui, for instance in the AU999.
I like PCBs but dont like to mount tube sockets on them as they tend to get loose over time or break solder pads.
Perhaps one could have tube sockets mounted on chassis and wire each tube electrode to the slot socket and then have the PCB with main circuit connected to that slot socket.
Heater connection can still be outside the PCB.
Of course pcb design and layout is important here, for instance to have grid stoppers resistors as closely to the grid as possible.
Not sure what problem you are solving? If you use chassis mount sockets, or offset PCB ones and fit the chassis mounting ring so they can be screwed to the chassis, then there is no stress on the PCB.
Indeed, the idea is to use chassis mounted tube sockets and avoid mounting the sockets on the PCB. And at the same time the PCB can be easily removed from the slot sockets if a component needs to be replaced.
Having the sockets mounted on top of the chassis AND a PCB soldered below can be a problem if you need to get access to the PCB to replace a component..
Having the sockets mounted on top of the chassis AND a PCB soldered below can be a problem if you need to get access to the PCB to replace a component..
What voltage is that connected rated for? Tube circuits are going to have DC voltages >300V, and some >500V.
That is indeed a good question! I believe there should be slot sockets that support those voltages..
Mount the socket under the chassis, if the bolt is epoxied to the socket under the chassis mounting ring it can be bolted from above without worrying about access to the nut.
I see a point in small boards with the tube socket directly attatched. Possibly 90 degrees angled to save space.
A board containing a complete part of an amp is a convenient item, easy to repair, easy to modify or replace.
I do not see any point in separating the tube itself and the logic.
A board containing a complete part of an amp is a convenient item, easy to repair, easy to modify or replace.
I do not see any point in separating the tube itself and the logic.