Low Watt Valve Amp

[ozziebluesman]

Hi to everyone on the forum,

I've had some thoughts of having a go at building a low watt valve amp and I believe there are some kits available. I'm only looking at 4 to 5 watts with an antenator to halve and quarter the output. I think a gain and volume control is necessary and a bass and treble EQ.

If anyone has any links or advice I would be very appreciative.

Cheers

Alan

[petersemple]

Absorb this website: AX84.com - The Cooperative Tube Guitar Amp Project

[Jef Long]

Hi Alan. John McNair at reddog guitars (cigar box guitar guy) has some awesome tutorials on converting old Bakelite radios into guitar Amps if that interests you

[ozziebluesman]

G'day Peter and Jef. Thanks for your input.

Through my research I have found a little 2 watt gem called the ValveTone Impact made here in Australia. Looks like what I'm after. Has anyone had any first hand experience with these?

Cheers

Alan

[dayvo]

Is this the amp you're talking about?http://www.guitargear.net.au/discuss...?topic=29742.0
Check out the AGGH website, Im sure you'll find some answers
Darryl's work is highly regarded there
Dave

Sorry, you'll have to register at AGGH, but its free

[jeffhigh]

Darryl lives in my area Alan.
I'll be happy to take delivery of the amp and test it out for you for a year or so in case of any warranty problems.

[MrChameleon]

Hi there

I bought a Valvetone Impact MK2 from Darryl. It's a fantastic practice amp, surprisingly loud for 2W, and I wouldn't part with it!

Hth

Chris

[ozziebluesman]

G'day Jeff, have you tried one of these amps mate?

Dayvo, I joined the AGGH. Very friendly mob there!

Thanks Chris for your comments. What speaker size and wattage do you use with the amp?

Cheers

Alan

[MrChameleon]

Hi there

Tolvanen i535 ->
MI Audio Classic Distortion ->
VanAmps reverb ->
ValveTone Impact ->
2x10 8ohm (total) handbuilt cab.

All Aussie, all handmade (except for the reverb).

Best

Chris

[ozziebluesman]

Thanks Chris.

Do you think the two by 10" configuration at 8 ohm would be a bigger sound than a single 12" speaker at 8 ohm? Who build you cab for you?

Thanks

Alan

[MrChameleon]

I'm no expert but I think a 2x10 generates a "fuller" sound than a 1x12. It's a matter of personal taste though, and a 1x12 is a bit easier to lug around!

I've forgotten the name of the maker of the cab; it was an AGGH member - I'll have a look and see if his name is on it and get back to you if it is.

Best

Chris

[damian]

Try not to kill yourself. Remember your dealing with serious DC voltages. The DC is worse than AC at the same voltage.

There are good safety tutorials online.

[ozziebluesman]

Thanks for the warning Damian. I think I will purchase one of those valvetone impact 2 watt amps that are all ready assembled. I will then build the speaker cabinet and head shell for it myself.

Cheers

Alan

[damian]

It's just worth a mention.

The trick is IMO to put it together and take it to an electronics repairer or at least a sparky and get them to drag an eyeball over it before bringing 240V anywhere near it.

It'll cost you a bob or 2 but much cheaper than the funeral.

I would never discourage anyone from giving it a go, just be safe.

[Strungout]

Speak to Mal EVATCO Electronic Valve and Tube Company

I built a "Champ" from his kit a while ago He is a great bloke and is a member over on AGGH ..The amp rocks !

Greg