Tube Amp Scratchpad

Kits (that interest me)

I'm overly intrigued by SET amplifiers. The following are a set of kits that may be in my future

• Decware's tube line looks quite impressive. I'm particulary interested in the SELECT Zen Triode Amp model SE84C-S. I can't decide on the kit version or factory built, but the kit assembly instructions from Joseph Yellico is quite a help.
• Bottlhead Products, more specifically the Parabee if I could afford it.
• DIYHiFi also are an extremely attractive option. Their 'Billie' kit has recently been replaced/upgraded with the MonoBlock 300B 'LadyDay+' which looks like a winner. So much so I'm exploring the specifics of actually building one.
• Derek Walton's 300B Single ended amplifier based on Joseph Esmilla's work is also a very interesting possibility. I'm particularly impressed with the various implementations people have built on this theme. So much so I'm starting to look into parts and designs for building a custom 300b amp.

Note: 2003-10-31 - I got a good deal from Steve Deckert from Decware on a returned Zen and have not looked back. In short, I'm extremely happy with this purchace and the excellent quality of this Amp.

Unorganized Ready Reference Bits and Pieces

• CiscoKid's JE-Labs notes on DIY 300B amp

Non Kits (that interest me)

Jolida SJ-502A vacuum tube amplifier

Additional specs and reviews are availiable.

Price: msrp $ 1100.00

Jolida JD 1703A vacuum tube amplifier

Jolida JD 1703A vacuum tube amplifier. Integrated Hybrid Three Channel 75/75/75 Watts, 12AX7A input tubes, Mosfet output. Unit has front panel level controls for easy adjustment of front and center (or center and rear if that is how you connect it)levels. Very powerful, way beyond what you would expect with the 75w rating. Blats those receivers to the kingdom from whince they came. This is for a pretty black unit as illustrated. Technical Specifications: Rated Output Power: 75 W per channel at 8 ohms, 22Hz to 19KHz Frequency Response: (at 1 watt into 8 ohms) 5Hz to 100KHz + 1dB Bandwidth: 22Hz to 19kHz + 3dB; 0dB 65 W 1KHz Distortion THD: Less than 0.1% at 65 W output, 22Hz to 18KHz Input Impedance: 47Kohms Input Sensitivity: 500mV at 1KHz and 8 ohms for 75 watt output Noise and Hum: 90dB below rated output Tube Complement: 3 pcs. 12AX7 for the preamplifier Power Requirements: 110V-120 VAC 60Hz 180 watts-standby, 450 watts maximum (220 VAC 50Hz option). Dimensions: 17 inches wide by 13 inches deep by 4.5 inches high high. Weight: 35 pounds net, approximately 37 pounds packaged. Warranty: 18 months limited parts and labor. Six months or 1000 hours whichever comes first on Jolida Tubes. Fuse: 110 - 120 VAC, 3.5 Amp Fast Blo; 200 - 240 VAC, 3.5 Amp Fast Blo.

Price: Suggested Retail $725; used approx 400$. (seen as low as $305 on ebay)