Slightly OT: Building a tube amp

[Willthebold]

Hey guys, I'm really interested in building a nice little all-tube combo something like the 18-watt I've heard about.  The problem is I have no idea where to get started.  I need help understanding the schematics and getting the parts and figuring out what things the schematic might leave off thinking that it's understood and that kind of thing.  Could any of you recommend a good project for someone like me that's not too tough but sounds good?  I don't have a clue as to where to begin or if this is even within my capabilities.  Thanks in advance.

Will

[Pedro Freitas]

Gee, there are many places where you can strat looking!

here's one:
http://ax84.com/

Look up their amp designs. They are aimed for novice DIY builders.
And if you have any questions, use their forum to pose them. There you can find some marvellous people wanting to help for nothing! Really cool forum, much like this one  


Pedro

[Willthebold]

Thanks a lot.  I'll give this place a shot.

Will

[Peter Snowberg]

Another fantastic 1st amp I think is Doug Hammond's FireFly.

http://home.cfl.rr.com/dbhammond/doug.htm

The great things about this design are the simplicity, easy availability of parts, easy substitution for the power transformer (you can even use two wall-wart transformers), and the fantastic results.

You can also get ample help around here with it too. It may be slightly OT, but I think an amp should be considered as an effect too.

Sound is measured logrithmicly so 1.5 watts is really not that much softer than 18 watts. Much of the final loudness will depend on the speaker(s).

-Peter