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Buzz's OTL Build

buglegirl said:
Hiya,

You could also use a CA4/CA5 adapter box and I might actually have an extra one here I can loan you to test those. Or there are schematics if you want to go nuts and make one :)

Its how I tested the quad I sold you with my WE tester.

EDIT: Scratch That .. Novar vs Magnoval .. I used the stupid SA-8 which is misplaced (Of Course) ..

Sigh,

Frannie
Click to expand...

I have the adapter (CA4 or 8) for the 539B, but as you point out, it's a Novar socket. Thanks for your help!
 
It's done! (Well, almost. I've tested one channel and need to double-check the other before I perform the final "smoke test." And maybe figure out where I might add a "power on" LED indicator).

Any suggestions? I thought about mounting orange LEDs under the sockets of the four tubes in the front. But that might look a bit cheesy. Anyway, I'm looking for some inspiration!

I'm excited & can't wait to hook it up to my main speakers.
 

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nailer said:
Couldn't valve lighting be the "power on" indicator?

Nice amp.
Click to expand...

+1

Next up, listening tests!

Is this, as Rozenblitz suggests, Nirvana to end all Nirvanas? "The best there is, Period"???

How many out there have actually heard an output transformerless tube amp? <crickets>....Thought so.
 
rustnrot said:
+1

Next up, listening tests!

Is this, as Rozenblitz suggests, Nirvana to end all Nirvanas? "The best there is, Period"???

How many out there have actually heard an output transformerless tube amp? <crickets>....Thought so.
Click to expand...

Yes, I am looking forward to seeing if his claims have merit. He's not exactly known for modesty and restraint. :)
 
As an alternative to Nailer's suggestion about "you'll see the tubes", how about changing out the on/off toggle switch to a lighted one?
 
rustnrot said:
+1

Next up, listening tests!

Is this, as Rozenblitz suggests, Nirvana to end all Nirvanas? "The best there is, Period"???

How many out there have actually heard an output transformerless tube amp? <crickets>....Thought so.
Click to expand...

Heard an OTL? My question would be who hasn't? Never heard the palace though.
 
More photos . . .

A few more shots before final adjustment.
 

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We have music!

So, plugged it in directly to a CD player. No smoke!

Quiet as can be. I didn't realize it was actually on.

Bruce, who is fond of hyperbole and occasional self promotion, claimed, "It doesn't get any better than this." So far I'm underwhelmed, but I need to give it a chance to burn in.

I must say that I'm surprised it worked off the bat, as complicated as it is.

BuzzK
 
Last edited:
Hiya,

That is very neat and well laid out. Mind if I ask what characteristic/characteristics is/are underwhelming. ??

Frannie
 
Hiya,

You have to take a class in Marketing .. (I say this tongue in cheek)

It has a almost clinical, accurate sound.

Honestly I know its just a matter of breaking in. What impedance speakers are you using with it ??

Frannie
 
Hi Frannie,

I'm using some Dyna 25s. I think they are 8 ohms.

I'll give it more time.

Jon
 
Hiya,

Higher impedance's may help or some sort of auto transformer type of device.

But what I know is from screwing around with Atmosphere M-60's .. Just remember they lacked with 4-8 ohm speakers and really sprang to life when I implemented the auto transformer.

I think we used the Paul Speltz Zero Boxes which someone loaned us. But it was a while ago and just screwing around at a show with some friends speakers.

The difference was like going from Black Plastic Crap and upset to OMFG is this really that much of a difference.

Frannie
 
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