Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: six_eight on November 14, 2012, 06:49:12 pm

Title: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: six_eight on November 14, 2012, 06:49:12 pm
Does anyone know what the part# for a VDR suitable for use in the Magnatone vibrato circuit?  Or what the specs are?  How many mA @ what voltage?
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on November 14, 2012, 07:05:17 pm
Try to contact dinkotom.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: HotBluePlates on November 14, 2012, 07:29:17 pm
Yep, he knows.

Are you building a Maggie?

Do you have to use varistors? Cause there are other variable-impedance elements you could use that aren't un-obtainium, and will work the same. However, there will be some circuit changes needed.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: six_eight on November 14, 2012, 08:27:05 pm
Try to contact dinkotom.

Thanks.  I found a place that lists the Zenith 63-5053 which are .05mA@80V which is supposed to be the magic number, as being a part they stock.  But it's one of those places that doesn't have real time inventory, so I'm waiting to hear back.  If they don't have them in stock, I'll try contacting dinkotom.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: six_eight on November 14, 2012, 08:32:10 pm
Yep, he knows.

Are you building a Maggie?

Do you have to use varistors? Cause there are other variable-impedance elements you could use that aren't un-obtainium, and will work the same. However, there will be some circuit changes needed.

I was thinking about building a revibe, but replacing the 6G12 part with the Maggie part.  And also adding a switch to kill the phase that doesn't get cancelled for a tremolo effect.

Other parts that will do the same thing, you say?  I'm listening.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: HotBluePlates on November 14, 2012, 09:27:00 pm
Well, the original patent by the guy that invented the Magnatone Vibrato shows a bridge circuit where the arms are a cap and a "variable impedance element". When that variable impedance changes and the cap value stays the same, the phase angle for a given frequency changes. A changing phase mixed with a constant-phase (dry) signal gives a varying pitch, akin to Doppler effect.

As the Magnatone incorporates the invention, that variable impedance is a varistor, which alters its apparent resistance in response to a changing applied voltage. That "changing applied voltage" is the signal created by the oscillator, just like a trem circuit. The difference is the application of the oscillator signal varies signal amplitude in a trem, while it changes phase, and thereby pitch, in a vibrato circuit.

It's worth noting the Univibe uses LDR optoisolators as its variable impedance element. I've been thinking we should be able to use Vactrol optos as the variable impedance (there's a whole range of these devices; Doug sells at least one type).

The catch is the control signal has to be applied slightly differently, because it won't be applied directly to the controlled element, as in the Maggie vibrato. Also, the size of the control signal may need tweaking and/or cap values in the bridge circuit may need to be adjusted.

It's something that's worth experimenting with, but it needs breadboarding to zero-in on good parts values and overall circuit implementation.

I've just seen the original varistors selling for something like $75/pair, and you need 4-8 of them depending on which specific Magnatone model you copy. To me, that seems unconscionable, and there's got to be a better way...
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: kagliostro on November 15, 2012, 09:22:49 am
Some time ago I got an old italian amp a GEM Deluxe Reverb 50R

the schematic was not disposable and so I started to draw it by myself, so I discovered that also this circuit uses the same principle as Magnatone, but they use only a pair of varistors

I had a long research and was not able to find an alternative to the use of varistors

in this image you can see the difference between old style varistor and new varistors

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/Typische_Varistorkennlinien.gif)

In the australian forum www.guitargear.net.au (http://www.guitargear.net.au) there is a member (electric triode) who has build two amps with new varistors
Quote
I've built two Magnatone clones using current technology varistors http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php?topic=29720.0 (http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php?topic=29720.0), and it works fine.

an italian guy proposed to build a surrogate of varistor using a resistor in series with a diode and paralleled to a diode in series with a resistor (I mean something like upside down eachother - hope you can understand what I mean) but no try about this solution

Here you can download the original patent for the use of the varistors

http://www.mediafire.com/view/?7exvwm8lvcuufvm (http://www.mediafire.com/view/?7exvwm8lvcuufvm)

K

Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Geezer on November 15, 2012, 09:40:13 am
http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php/topic,29720.15.html (http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php/topic,29720.15.html)

Reply # 15 may be of interest....he lists the Farnell part # he uses and the voltage to the circuit.

G
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: six_eight on November 15, 2012, 11:25:04 am
http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php/topic,29720.15.html (http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php/topic,29720.15.html)

Reply # 15 may be of interest....he lists the Farnell part # he uses and the voltage to the circuit.

G

Thanks!  68V@1mA is the closest I've seen in a new production MOV.  But then again, I really don't know if 80V@.05mA is the intended spec.  I have several vintage Magnatones, but I don't see any P#s on the varistors and I have no idea how to test them.  I'll order some of those and give them a try.  I've got a Twilighter 260.  I'm gonna remove the original varistors and install alligator clips to experiment with different parts, so if you've got any other part # suggestions, let me have 'em.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: six_eight on November 15, 2012, 12:13:58 pm
Well, the original patent by the guy that invented the Magnatone Vibrato shows a bridge circuit where the arms are a cap and a "variable impedance element". When that variable impedance changes and the cap value stays the same, the phase angle for a given frequency changes. A changing phase mixed with a constant-phase (dry) signal gives a varying pitch, akin to Doppler effect.

As the Magnatone incorporates the invention, that variable impedance is a varistor, which alters its apparent resistance in response to a changing applied voltage. That "changing applied voltage" is the signal created by the oscillator, just like a trem circuit. The difference is the application of the oscillator signal varies signal amplitude in a trem, while it changes phase, and thereby pitch, in a vibrato circuit.

It's worth noting the Univibe uses LDR optoisolators as its variable impedance element. I've been thinking we should be able to use Vactrol optos as the variable impedance (there's a whole range of these devices; Doug sells at least one type).

The catch is the control signal has to be applied slightly differently, because it won't be applied directly to the controlled element, as in the Maggie vibrato. Also, the size of the control signal may need tweaking and/or cap values in the bridge circuit may need to be adjusted.

It's something that's worth experimenting with, but it needs breadboarding to zero-in on good parts values and overall circuit implementation.

I've just seen the original varistors selling for something like $75/pair, and you need 4-8 of them depending on which specific Magnatone model you copy. To me, that seems unconscionable, and there's got to be a better way...

I've done quite a bit of experimentation with translating the Magnatone vibrato circuit into solid state form.  As you've pointed out, the hardest part is matching the amplitude/voltage of the LFO to whatever variable impedance device you are using.  It gets even more complicated when you consider that you need two oscillator signals that are perfectly out of phase with one another. 

The Univibe and the Magnatone circuits are essentially the same.  The Magnatone just has two "arms", as you call it, on the changing phase side that work in a push-pull manner. 

Aside from some different component values, the LFOs in the AA763 and the Magnatone are very similar.  So I would assume the the shape of the wave generated by the AA763 is the same as the shape generated by the Magnatone (one of the things I found is that the shape of the wave plays a huge part in the actual sound produced), but it is of an amplitude and voltage that is ideal for driving an LED coupled with an LDR.  I think if one were to take the AA763 circuit and use a vactrol that had an LDR in it that was similar to the LDRs used in a univibe, this could be used in one half of the phase changing arm in the vibrato circuit.

The only tricky part would be getting a second LED to blink out of phase with the other LED.  Maybe it could be done similar to the way the LED is already configured, but inversely.  The LED is in series with a 100k resistor between the anode and +V.  Perhaps an LED in series with the 56k/25uF  between the cathode and ground would do the trick.

Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on November 15, 2012, 12:52:06 pm
Here's the 2 part # from vibro world;

FR1039   (disk shape)

FS308     (tubular/fuse shape)

These are supposed to be what Magnatone used.

He's been out of stock for a long time.

Someone still makes a version in Japen (?) that's supposed to be correct but (like HBP said) the guy that sells them want's like $75 (?) a pair for them.

There's a thread in this forum from a year or 2 ago on the Maggie virato that has info on them.
 

                 Brad      :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: six_eight on November 15, 2012, 02:20:25 pm
Here's the 2 part # from vibro world;

FR1039   (disk shape)

FS308     (tubular/fuse shape)

These are supposed to be what Magnatone used.

He's been out of stock for a long time.

Someone still makes a version in Japen (?) that's supposed to be correct but (like HBP said) the guy that sells them want's like $75 (?) a pair for them.

There's a thread in this forum from a year or 2 ago on the Maggie virato that has info on them.
 

                 Brad      :icon_biggrin:

Thanks.  Still no definitive data sheets, but it looks like the general consensus on those part #s is that they should be somewhere between 68V - 110V @ .05mA - 1mA.  This gives me quite a few new production parts (at less than a dollar each) to test out in my 260.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on November 15, 2012, 02:22:13 pm
Quote
It gets even more complicated when you consider that you need two oscillator signals that are perfectly out of phase with one another.
Not complicated at all. Just run the oscillator signal thru a phase inverter just like Magnatone did.

Quote
The only tricky part would be getting a second LED to blink out of phase with the other LED.
Same as above.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on November 15, 2012, 03:57:45 pm
IIRC in the other thread on finding new production varistors is the new ones behave differently than the old types. PRR said they figured out how to fix what was considered a problem/flaw in the old design in the way it was made?

Look at the pic kaliostro posted, the sharp shoulder of the new types is shown. It might not sound as smooth as the old style with the softer shoulder. You'll have to A/B them side by side to see if you hear any difference.

OTOH, have you seen the thread on a build Sluckey did called the Warbler? A number of guys here have built one and love it. It does a great maggi sound and more. It's a true pitch/phase shift circuit and the variable element is much easier and cheaper to get a hold of.

Here's the link;        http://www.el34world.com/Forum/index.php?topic=10681.0 (http://www.el34world.com/Forum/index.php?topic=10681.0)  



                   Brad      :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: PRR on November 16, 2012, 07:09:17 pm
> I have no idea how to test them

B+ from any handy amp, resistor, voltmeter.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: SoundmasterG on November 17, 2012, 12:48:02 am
I've got 8 of the originals that I got from Zack at Vibroworld....in fact I have the last 8 that he had, and I got them probably 10 years ago. I let Ted Weber borrow a couple for awhile to test, and he sent them back and never said anything about what he found out. Of course we can't ask him now.

I plan to use four in a combo amp that is as yet undetermined, and will be the Magnatone 260 vibrato circuit....and the other four I plan to use in a Torevibe with the Magnatone 260 vibrato added in to the stock Torevibe circuit. Obviously I would need a longer chassis to do this. If I knew how to test them I would get specs, but I have no idea. I can do some checking around though with some engineer friends I know locally and see if there is an easy way to test them.

At $75 a pair maybe I should sell them....that's highway robbery!

Greg
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: SoundmasterG on November 17, 2012, 01:11:08 am
By the way, I've attached some pics of the originals, and a a word doc file with the specs for them. They are the two highlighted.

Greg
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: plexi50 on January 09, 2013, 03:15:19 pm
six_eight have you had time to try the LITTELFUSE - V68ZA2P - VARISTOR, 3.0J, 40VAC ?

Data:
VARISTOR, 3.0J, 40VAC
Series: ZA
Varistor Type: Metal Oxide Varistor (MOV)
Peak Surge Current @ 8/20µs: 250A
Varistor Case: Disc 7mm
Clamping Voltage Vc Max: 135V
Peak Energy (10/1000uS): 3J
Voltage Rating V DC: 56V
Voltage Rating V AC: 40V
Operating Temperature Range: -55°C to +85°C
Body Diameter: 7mm
Capacitance: 600pF
Clamping Voltage: 135V
Clamping Voltage @ 8/20µs Max: 135V
Device Marking: 68Z2
External Width: 5.6mm
Lead Diameter: 0.68mm
Lead Length: 25.4mm
Operating Temperature Max: 85°C
Operating Temperature Min: -55°C
Package / Case: Radial
Peak Pulse Current IPP @ 8/20µs: 250A
Suppressor Type: Varistor
Surge Current: 250A
Temperature Coeff. +: 0.05ppm/°C
Test Voltage: 2500V
Transient Energy: 3.0J
Varistor Voltage: 68V
Varistor Voltage @ 1mA: 68V
Varistor Voltage @ 1mA: 61V
Varistor Voltage @ 1mA Max: 75V

I bought 100 of them just in case they turn out to dissapear as well. It wil be about 30 days before i can start building.
Leg OP,Dentures,PITA. Jee isnt getting old fun???
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on January 09, 2013, 03:40:54 pm
Now wait a minute Plexi, when did you get those?

Did I miss school that day?


             Brad      :laugh:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: plexi50 on January 09, 2013, 05:16:08 pm
Now wait a minute Plexi, when did you get those?

Did I miss school that day?


             Brad      :laugh:

I went to that link you steered me to and took a look at what he was doing. I dont know what his results were just yet as im waiting to hear back from him. Need to check my mail/ http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php/topic,29720.15.html (http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php/topic,29720.15.html)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on January 09, 2013, 05:20:14 pm
Ok, I rember looking at that link a while ago.

But did you buy a 100 of those or did he?


            Brad     :dontknow:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: plexi50 on January 09, 2013, 05:32:20 pm
I bought 100 of them this afternoon from element 14 which is also newark. It will be an interesting project
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: plexi50 on January 11, 2013, 03:59:42 pm
Got an email from Andrew at http://www.amplifiers.com.au/ (http://www.amplifiers.com.au/)  He says the LITTELFUSE - V68ZA2P - VARISTOR, 3.0J, 40VAC works wonders in his amp vibrato builds. I have 100 of them on the way to me so if they dissapear i will have a varistor good enough to do the job
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on January 11, 2013, 07:30:40 pm
I looked them up by part # at Mouser and Digikey and they both have them in stock. Mousers price was 0.17 @ 100. Digikey had only price for 1, it was 0.47 ?

Both had stock in the 1000's. Digikey also had a few more that were 40v raitings too.


             Brad     
 
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jazbo8 on January 13, 2013, 06:14:02 pm
Got an email from Andrew at http://www.amplifiers.com.au/ (http://www.amplifiers.com.au/)  He says the LITTELFUSE - V68ZA2P - VARISTOR, 3.0J, 40VAC works wonders in his amp vibrato builds. I have 100 of them on the way to me so if they dissapear i will have a varistor good enough to do the job

Thanks for the tip, so it's an exact sub? Any component change for the build?
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: plexi50 on January 13, 2013, 07:41:57 pm
He sent me gut shots of his amp with vibrato but no other details. I will email him and ask him if he can tell me what resistors he used in the 2 stages plate and cathode. That would be asking for the secret sauce though and i dont think i will get that info but all i can do is ask.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jazbo8 on January 29, 2013, 03:47:22 am
Just read on ampgarage (http://ampgarage.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=20233) that Magnatone is back in business. May be varistor won't be in shortage anymore?!

Jaz
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on January 29, 2013, 10:50:11 pm
Just read on ampgarage (http://ampgarage.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=20233) that Magnatone is back in business. May be varistor won't be in shortage anymore?!
I was told by a guy in the Maggie booth at NAMM Friday that they are back to making the original Vibrato in their amps just like the old days and using the same parts. I even made clear that are the varistors being remanufactured and he said yes. However, the man to actaully talk to was busy at the moment so I couldn't get a confirmation on this from him but it appears promissing.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jazbo8 on January 30, 2013, 12:32:57 am
Cool, so you were at NAMM! Please keep us posted if you learn something new, I'm not sure if they would go through the trouble & expense of getting the exact same varistor made, although it is a possibility, it's more likely that the circuit is tweaked by the engineers to work with what's available the market now, either way, it would be interesting to see if they can get the company back in business and sustain it - looks like they were trying to get distributors/dealers and some order commitments at NAMM before formally re-launching the brand...

Jaz
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on January 30, 2013, 01:43:58 am
I even made clear that are the varistors being remanufactured and he said yes. However, the man to actually talk to was busy at the moment so I couldn't get a confirmation on this from him but it appears promissing.

JoJo! What the....   You where there????

 And you didn't wait to talk to the boss man????    :BangHead:     :cussing:

You should have talked to him and if he said they where not going to sell the varisor's to the public for a reasonable price, then you should have grabed him by the kah@$&% ...... and told him..... Hey listen bud, look here......      :director:   .........      and then if he didn't listen, tell him, this is what's gonna happen to you if you don't ...... :violent1:

          :l2:

Please would you start a new thread on anything you saw that we would find interesting?????


            Brad      :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: plexi50 on January 30, 2013, 06:45:26 am
I would like to believe that the manfacturing process,chemicals,mineral grade,and good old caustic agents that were used in the 1950's to make products could be duplicated. It may be a close clone but it will never be the real thing. Just like Coke! Coca Cola. Remember those little tiny bottles? There was something in that Coca Cola that was magical. Same with the magnatone varistor. All kidding aside it could be done but i hardly think it would ever happen. Bring back pee wee's,rootbeer fizzies and Lafayette and i will believe
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on January 30, 2013, 09:24:34 am
JoJo! What the....   You where there????
And you didn't wait to talk to the boss man????    :BangHead:     :cussing:
Yes *see new avatar
I couldn't wait, was with fellow friends/band members
It may be a close clone but it will never be the real thing. Just like Coke! Coca Cola. Remember those little tiny bottles? There was something in that Coca Cola that was magical.
It was called coca aka cocaine
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on January 30, 2013, 12:51:48 pm
Yes *see new avatar

So that's you with the 2 girls?


            Brad     :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on February 08, 2013, 12:25:09 pm
Yep getting goosed from behind by the little she-devil that she is.

Here's the Maggie Vibrato info from one of their brochures...again I was unable to confirm for myself but the brochure states the varistor info on it.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 04, 2015, 05:00:59 pm
I'm researching for my next project and the Magnatone 410 was very interesting but I've been informed by Sluckey that those varistors are not easy to find and substitute. I looked at the link here for the varistors in mouser and they are available still. I was wondering if this is what my only choice is or has new information come about since last post in this thread. If the little fuse is the best and what needs to be done to use them.
Cheers
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: kagliostro on February 05, 2015, 11:53:30 am
Reading this tread

http://ampgarage.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=23839 (http://ampgarage.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=23839)

you'll find a solution for substitutes to the varistors in a Magnatone circuit

this one

(http://ampgarage.com/forum/download.php?id=38835)

a lot of researc was done to catch the solution

my council, however, is that you read all the tread, because you can find very interesting info


K
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 05, 2015, 12:50:55 pm
I started reading that thread, so this diagram would be a substitute for one varistor. needing two in the amp you would have to do this for each varistor in the circuit
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 05, 2015, 01:26:17 pm
Ok, who bought em up! They're gone from ebay
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 05, 2015, 03:59:27 pm
 :icon_biggrin: I contacted the seller who has three pair and he relisted them. So I bought a pair of the real McCoy's
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 05, 2015, 06:00:30 pm
Where on e-bay? I can't find them there.


                  Brad    :dontknow:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 05, 2015, 06:16:12 pm
http://m.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Magnatone+varistors+&sqp=&trksid= (http://m.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=Magnatone+varistors+&sqp=&trksid=)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 05, 2015, 07:42:49 pm
Thanks, but that link just goes to e-bay.

I'll search Magnatone, varistors.


         Thanks,   Brad   :icon_biggrin:

Edit; Found them.  :icon_biggrin: 
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 05, 2015, 08:41:43 pm
That's how I found them, using Magnatone varistors. You going to build Maggie to or use in a different vibrato circuit
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 05, 2015, 08:55:27 pm
I didn't buy them.

I was just curious.



                        Brad     :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: kagliostro on February 05, 2015, 09:14:32 pm
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pair-of-Magnatone-Estey-VERY-RARE-NOS-VARISTORS-Price-Cut-Closeout-Sale-/171670071549?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27f85568fd (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pair-of-Magnatone-Estey-VERY-RARE-NOS-VARISTORS-Price-Cut-Closeout-Sale-/171670071549?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item27f85568fd)




here an auction for a 431
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Magnatone-Starlite-431-Tube-Amp-Vintage-1965-Tone-Monster-RARE-NO-RESERV-/131420470679?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e99453d97 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Magnatone-Starlite-431-Tube-Amp-Vintage-1965-Tone-Monster-RARE-NO-RESERV-/131420470679?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e99453d97)


Franco
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 06:08:31 am
Those are the the pair I ordered. As for a PT I have two choice which will give me a close B+ Using the current calculator. My extra Hammond 290cax will work
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 06, 2015, 06:51:24 am
That's about half the price he was getting for those varistors a couple years ago. I think that means that a suitable, cheap alternative has been found. BTW, that guy makes some nice amps.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 07:00:15 am
I wrote over at amp garage thread if there was any new insight on them. I have to look at thread again, I don't know if I had a reply. I'm still trying to layout a board from the 410 schematic  :huh: I must have rearranged the caps and resistors 10x already just for v1 & v2
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 06, 2015, 07:06:55 am
I don't see your post over at TAG.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 07:12:09 am
? I guess thats why I haven't heard anything  :l2: I've been having internet problems so I guess my post is in Internet matrix world somewhere. I'll have to repost, on that note did you get a pm from me yesterday? I had sent one to you
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 06, 2015, 07:15:16 am
Quote
I'm still trying to layout a board from the 410 schematic  :huh: I must have rearranged the caps and resistors 10x already just for v1 & v2
Only 10 times? That's about par for the course.  :wink:

I got 2 PMs from you yesterday.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 07:22:28 am
I shall keep at it, the main important one was that I was gonna go ahead and build this and was interested in a layout designed by you if you free.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 06, 2015, 07:43:18 am
I'll get started on a layout but I've got a couple other projects I'm working on. It may be a week or so. Meanwhile, keep plugging away at it. May I suggest you start a separate thread?

There are some things I don't like about this amp, but I have to remind myself that this amp was close to the bottom of the Maggie line. It only cost $120 brand new.


Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 08:01:40 am
No rush Steve, I still got to finish the 5G9. I do like the troubadour a lot as well, which circuit do you prefer? I will start a dedicated thread to the Maggie build
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 09:31:49 am
That's about half the price he was getting for those varistors a couple years ago. I think that means that a suitable, cheap alternative has been found.

I read through some of the link that K posted, mainly the last 3 pages, and listened to a couple of sound clips.

On 1 sound clip the guy has the alternative they came up with followed by a pair of NOS varistors. I think their both the single stage Maggi circuit?

I thought the alternative was not as thick and 'watery' sounding as the NOS clip. I wish he would have played the same part/chords back to back for both, with an A/B box. It's a little hard to really tell the way he did it.

They said that the Maggi circuit with varistors has a lot of trem mix with the vibrato portion and the fans of the Maggi sound like that. They consider it part of the uniqueness of the Maggi's sound. They said that the Vox/Gibson was more true vibrato without the trem added/over laid.

They also said some think that the new Maggi's are using varistors from Metrosil in England that still make silicon carbide varistors.

So I sent an email to them yesterday and was quoted a price of, $150 min. purchase order and for the 100-P/W/921, $27.25 each, $163.50 for 6. That does not include a vat tax and shipping. I just replied to them for what they would total.

I did not find in that thread that anyone over there tried the Metrosil varsitors.


                       Brad     :dontknow:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 10:13:57 am
When your building an amp cause it's your passion I could see paying that 27$ a piece for a one off amp of your own. As a business that might not make sense unless you have clients willing to pay for it + the markup
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 10:38:03 am
Depends on how much you want that sound and how much $$ you have?   :dontknow:

I'm not sure at this point that I like the Maggi vibrato sound better (I do like it) that the Gibson/Vox vibrato or Sluckey's (Hammond) Warbler vibrato.

Those can be built for less $$ then a 1 stage Maggi, cost would double for the 2 stage Maggi. And the Warbler is a 3 stage.

Now on the other hand, we pay for tubes that wear out and I've not heard of varistors going out, sooooooooo.


                    Brad    :think1:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 10:45:31 am
Did you pay $50 for the pair or $50 each?


                  Brad     :dontknow:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 11:03:32 am
$53.50 for a pair. Shipping is the $3.50
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: kagliostro on February 06, 2015, 11:05:36 am
If I can say ....

Build the amp you like, use the Ampgarage alternative to the Varistors (that are cheap)

if you like the sound of the amp and you didn't notice differences from Varistor use, all is done

if you prefer the original sound of the varistors, get a pair of it and install on the amp

Franco
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 11:11:22 am
Here is a Maggie Vibrato I etched out and built last year. Pleasent sound and I used tag boards site for the build
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 11:32:12 am
$53.50 for a pair. Shipping is the $3.50

Ok, thanks.

I just pulled the trigger and bought 2 pair.

I figure I can build it and try the NOS against the alternative and see what I think. Then if I hear no/very little difference then I can sell the NOS varistors or the whole amp.


                   Brad    :think1:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 11:35:46 am
Brilliant, I will follow that idea as well
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 11:39:18 am
Remember you got me into this purchase and if it doesn't work out,    :violent1:


              Brad     :laugh:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 01:00:08 pm
 :think1:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 01:52:58 pm
I'm just joking around with you.   :laugh:


                 Brad    :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 03:19:42 pm
I know that :icon_biggrin: I've been trying to turn the Maggie 410 from a schematic into a layout which I've never done before. I'm getting there, it's like a jigsaw puzzle. I am using layouts from here as guide lines as to how and where things need to go
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 03:33:17 pm
It is like a jig saw puzzle, you'll figure it out.


                   Brad    :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: kagliostro on February 06, 2015, 04:53:13 pm
Here you can find some documentation and you can copy a layout

the layout is never been shown in a perfect view

but you can copy it among the pages and refine by yourself where needed

http://www.tdpri.com/forum/shock-brothers-diy-amps/511523-next-4-ish-builds-magnatone-210-410-discussion.html (http://www.tdpri.com/forum/shock-brothers-diy-amps/511523-next-4-ish-builds-magnatone-210-410-discussion.html)

K

p.s.: Here a good version of the schematic

http://www.magnatoneamps.com/schematics/magnatone_410rd.pdf (http://www.magnatoneamps.com/schematics/magnatone_410rd.pdf)


(http://i.imgur.com/24agUxi.jpg)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 06, 2015, 06:18:46 pm
Thank you K for all the links you've been posting on the vibrato.   :icon_biggrin:

Go to post #70 for a sound clip.


              Brad    :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 06, 2015, 06:45:13 pm
That is the schematic I have been using and that link you sent is great. He did a combo of layout/ PTP on his build I see. I'm using graph paper and using Dougs width dimension. If there is a cap can10/10/20 I will use that but I didn't even look for that yet, Dur. That would save me 2" at least on length of board
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 06, 2015, 06:54:54 pm
https://www.tubesandmore.com/products/C-EC20-10X2-450 (https://www.tubesandmore.com/products/C-EC20-10X2-450)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: kagliostro on February 06, 2015, 07:42:37 pm
One other tread (at Ampgarage) about the previous 410 project, same author


http://ampgarage.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=26485&sid=1f866c562d19de88def23c15%20b5a8c6dd (http://ampgarage.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=26485&sid=1f866c562d19de88def23c15%20b5a8c6dd)


Franco
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 10, 2015, 07:00:06 am
Here they are
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 10, 2015, 10:07:26 am
I've added a layout for the Magnatone M-410 to my website. The layout has been verified to match the schematic, but I have not built this. It's on the drawing board.

    http://home.comcast.net/~seluckey/amps/index.htm (http://home.comcast.net/~seluckey/amps/index.htm)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 10, 2015, 12:23:53 pm
 :worthy1: :headbang:  will print out and start the madness
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 10, 2015, 12:25:14 pm
By the way, I've attached some pics of the originals, and a a word doc file with the specs for them. They are the two highlighted.

I can't get the dock open, anyone know how?

Link from reply #16;

http://el34world.com/Forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=14650.0;attach=33331 (http://el34world.com/Forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=14650.0;attach=33331)


           Thanks,  Brad    :dontknow:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 10, 2015, 12:31:30 pm
Opens fine for me. I'm using Word 2010.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on February 10, 2015, 01:00:46 pm
Does anyone plan on building a higher power 2x6V6 version maybe w/ 4 varistor circuit? It seems that the 4 varistor circuit would be a better plan/value since going to the trouble & cost of building something in the first place? I'd like to have something I can use for gig situations not just a bedroom amp. What Maggie model(s) would be suggested for what I'm looking for?
 
Maybe I'll consider just doing a one-off? If I did (going by memory here) didn't Maggie amps use a cathodyne pi with this circuit or does it matter and I can use a LTPI?
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: kagliostro on February 10, 2015, 03:11:26 pm
A GEM Super Deluxe Reverb 50R (old italian Brand) ?  :icon_biggrin:

(http://ampgarage.com/forum/download.php?id=39594)

Franco

p.s.: @ Brad -- Our friend Darryl used rusian varistor on one of his amps - http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php?topic=31524.0 (http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php?topic=31524.0)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 10, 2015, 03:14:19 pm
Opens fine for me. I'm using Word 2010.

I saved it then I had the option to open it with Word. It worked.


                     Thanks,    Brad    :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 10, 2015, 03:39:39 pm
p.s.: @ Brad -- Our friend Darryl used rusian varistor on one of his amps - http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php?topic=31524.0 (http://www.guitargear.net.au/discussion/index.php?topic=31524.0)

Thanks K, I just read it. It seems the 56V SiC varistors gave a weak vibrato sound, but they did work.

He did mention maybe the circuit needed to be tweaked for the 56v Russian SiC varistors.


                     Brad    :think1: 
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 10, 2015, 03:52:00 pm
Does anyone plan on building a higher power 2x6V6 version maybe w/ 4 varistor circuit?

Yes, I might. I want to bread board it 1st.

I'm trying to find current production SiC or NOS Russian SiC varistors that will work. And I want to A/B the replacement they came up with at Amp Garage. K posted a link to the thread above, want the long and short of it? It works very well but it might not be as 'watery' as with NOS SiC varistors? (Start at page 9?)

What Maggie model(s) would be suggested for what I'm looking for?

There's a bunch of them. Some were 2x6V6's. I think that what guys liked the best about Maggie's was the vibrato and you can put that circuit in about anything you want. 

(going by memory here) didn't Maggie amps use a cathodyne pi with this circuit or does it matter and I can use a LTPI?

Yes and yes.

Edit; Should have wrote, yes, no and yes. Although there are a few Maggies the insert the varistor circuit between the PI driver and the splitter.


                 Brad    :icon_biggrin:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on February 10, 2015, 04:51:40 pm
I'm trying to find current production SiC or NOS Russian SiC varistors that will work. And I want to A/B the replacement they came up with at Amp Garage. K posted a link to the thread above, want the long and short of it? It works very well but it might not be as 'watery' as with NOS SiC varistors? (Start at page 9?)
I read that entire thread and listened to all of the sound samples. Even the best of the tried circuits were not as good sounding as the NOS varistors in my opinion. Some were weak sounding, some only modulated the upper frequencies, many had the diode switching/clicking going on, when caps were used it removed high end of the signal, etc...so nothing matched the good ol' Maggie sound & performance varistors. It was also mentioned that the inventor of the circuit spent time with the staff to show and teach them how even when using the original varistors it took many of them to get the right/correct match for the circuits to get them to operate correctly.
 
Reading the feedback of the guy that was selling the NOS parts was a lot of good remarks so they must work, unless the remarks were made before they were installed into the amps/circuits?! (doubt it but you never know?)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 10, 2015, 05:01:09 pm
Quote
Reading the feedback of the guy that was selling the NOS parts was a lot of good remarks so they must work, unless the remarks were made before they were installed into the amps/circuits?! (doubt it but you never know?)
He's a good guy. He also builds some nice amps.

Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on February 10, 2015, 05:10:09 pm
He's a good guy. He also builds some nice amps.

Thanks Steve, that's good to know. What's your opinion on the best sounding Maggie Vibrato amp: 2 or 4 varistor version? Is there a big difference between the two? I've not played original Maggies personally.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 10, 2015, 06:18:23 pm
The M10A that I have is the only Magnatone I've ever heard. It has 4 varistors and sounds good to me.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 10, 2015, 06:50:52 pm
Right now it seems the NOS is Cheaper then what is being used in the new Magnatone Amps. There were three pair on eBay, I got one set, Willibe another so that leaves one set left on eBay so doing a dual pair might be hard.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 10, 2015, 07:14:34 pm
Right now it seems the NOS is Cheaper then what is being used in the new Magnatone Amps. There were three pair on eBay, I got one set, Willibe another so that leaves one set left on eBay so doing a dual pair might be hard.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: clyde on February 11, 2015, 09:51:32 am
Would these work?
(http://oi62.tinypic.com/9h8cgx.jpg)
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 11, 2015, 11:18:40 am
Maybe. They made them in MANY different values.

Can you see any #'s on them?


               Brad    :dontknow:
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: clyde on February 11, 2015, 04:35:00 pm
Not really and I'm sure some are thermistors.  If anyone would be willing to test them I could send some their way and when results are known I'd be happy to share if they're of any value, possibly for a PayPal gift for postage, etc. 
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on February 11, 2015, 05:35:00 pm
Even if you did have a couple of SiC varistors you'd likely not have the right ones. It'd be easier & much faster to check/test them all if you had a known amp with the circuit and simply alligator clipped them in and see what the results were immediately.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: clyde on February 11, 2015, 05:58:29 pm
Unfortunately I am in the middle of renos as well as dealing with some heavy family issues and cannot get to this anytime soon J.  However, my offer stands if anyone wants to test them I'd be happy to send them and if they're suitable, then share with those that want.   
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: mresistor on February 13, 2015, 09:03:59 am
what is "renos" ?
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on February 13, 2015, 09:08:04 am
what is "renos" ?

renovations
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 13, 2015, 02:44:16 pm
Willibe these are my readings
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 13, 2015, 02:53:23 pm
Hey lego, will two of those varistor leads fit into the top of one of Doug's turrets?
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 13, 2015, 03:55:52 pm
Good thing I stuffed everything in my duffle bag, 5g9 build as well. I will let you know by tonight or tomorrow the latest if that's ok. I think you should be able to, his turrets have nice inner diameter.  In transit at moment headed home
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: Willabe on February 13, 2015, 05:18:11 pm
No 2 won't fit in Doug's turret.

Lego check yours to make sure I have Doug's turrets in my hand. I might have some here from years ago from Mouser.


               Brad    :icon_biggrin:
 
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 13, 2015, 08:43:23 pm
Ok, your not going to get two leads clearly thru to bottom and out. I DID get two very snuggley in with one peaking thru bottom. Solution is to get a bit a little larger then ID and drill thru or me personally would have been satisfied with the fit and soldered
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 13, 2015, 09:09:22 pm
Thanks guys.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: jojokeo on February 13, 2015, 10:24:59 pm
Hey lego, will two of those varistor leads fit into the top of one of Doug's turrets?
Not sure what the point is going through the bottom of the turret? There's two caps that also have to connect here right? Is it to make the board as compact as humanly possible connecting all to a single turret?
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 13, 2015, 10:32:19 pm
The layout I did requires two varistors to share a common turret. Looks like I'll be modifying that.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 14, 2015, 09:01:38 am
You modify that already? That varistor hook looks different now
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 14, 2015, 09:34:57 am
You modify that already? That varistor hook looks different now
yes
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 14, 2015, 10:18:11 am
Low part count there on the board. I have the PT, I will use AllenAmps TO11C from my previous build. Steve? Is it me or on your layout picture you have the choke as the OT?
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 14, 2015, 11:16:33 am
Must be you. I see a 125A35A OT. Ain't no choke in this little amp.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 14, 2015, 11:24:13 am
Ah, I thought that was the small fender choke #. My mistake, I
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: sluckey on February 14, 2015, 12:39:24 pm
The OT you put in your revibe is perfect for this amp. The 125A35A / 022905 is a Fender Champ OT.
Title: Re: Varistor for magnatone vibrato?
Post by: lego4040 on February 14, 2015, 02:37:08 pm
This is the OT I have laying around Heavy-duty upgrade output transformer for single-ended amps using a 6V6, 6L6, EL34 or dual 6V6 power tubes is custom wound in the USA by Heyboer to stringent Allen specifications. 8,000 ohm primary to   8 or 16 ohm secondary for use with a single 6V6. 4,000 ohm to 4 or 8 ohm for use with a single 6L6, EL34 or two 6V6s in parallel. Rated 95ma continuous! Wound on a paper tube with paper-layered and specially interleaved windings and featuring a special grain-oriented lamination steel for maximum output and clarity. Excellent choice for 5F1, 5F2A and similar amps with more commonly available 8 ohm speakers. Improved performance over stock output transformers. 2-5/8"H by 2-1/8"W with 2-13/16" mounting centers. Durable black oxide finish. 12" Unistrand pretinned leads for fast installation. Stainless-steel mounting hardware included! 1.6lbs