Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: macula56 on September 26, 2013, 05:11:09 am

Title: Mini pots in new build
Post by: macula56 on September 26, 2013, 05:11:09 am

I'm building a new amp in a smaller chassis than usual and was thinking about using mini pots. Anyone have experience with them? Are there any reasons not to use them? I've never used them before but i have had a couple of amps that did. I never had any problems with them but I figured I'd ask you guys before I order any. Thanks, JMac.

Title: Re: Mini pots in new build
Post by: tubenit on September 26, 2013, 05:29:21 am

Yes, I've used them numerous times with no issues to date.  

I usually use them in tone stacks because I tend to set and forget the tone stack settings.  In other words, overall I use regular sized pots and then the mini-pots for tone stacks to save space. I've also used them for reverb dwell pots and also FX send pots.

I posted an example photo with explanation below. There is also an FX send mini-pot down by the tubes on the underside of the chassis.

With respect, Tubenit

Title: Re: Mini pots in new build
Post by: macula56 on September 26, 2013, 08:43:17 am

cool looking. i like the letters. so you can't think of any reason that i couldn't use all mini pots? is there any real differences between minis and full size other than size? are there voltage rating differences?

Title: Re: Mini pots in new build
Post by: tubenit on September 26, 2013, 09:01:10 am

The letters are off a $2 sheet of decals.  :icon_biggrin:

As far as function, I can not tell any difference in "dialing" between large or mini-pots.  There is a wattage difference.  I don't know about voltage ratings?

I am not saying you won't have any problems with them. I am saying I have not had any problems with them.

I personally would not hesitate to use all mini-pots on an amp chassis if space was an issue for an amp for myself.

With respect, Tubenit

Title: Re: Mini pots in new build
Post by: macula56 on September 26, 2013, 10:01:42 am

thanks tubenit. your input is always appreciated. now all i gotta do is find some. what would be a good source? Mouser? i googled them but didn't get much info.
also, since you are so very knowledgeable, let me ask you this. a stock Plexi uses 1MA volume pots and Sluckey uses 1ML volume pots for his dual channel Marshall. what would be the difference in sound between these 2 types? is one better than the other? thanks again.

Title: Re: Mini pots in new build
Post by: g-man on September 26, 2013, 12:59:56 pm

Deleted

Title: Re: Mini pots in new build
Post by: printer2 on September 26, 2013, 07:58:15 pm

I don't know about the different letter in North America as compared to Europe. Besides they all come from China.  :grin:


Used mini pots in a few amps for myself, no problems for the ones that worked. Bought them on Ebay and the odd one would have its wiper not make good contact. Mind you at those prices it is to be expected.

Title: Re: Mini pots in new build
Post by: macula56 on September 27, 2013, 01:47:54 pm

thanks gentlemen. i think i will try some on my plexi build.