Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: luthierwnc on August 06, 2021, 08:05:42 pm

Title: Possible source of 4xEL84 transformers
Post by: luthierwnc on August 06, 2021, 08:05:42 pm

Hi All.  This thread is a bit premature but I thought I'd throw it out there and update as/if new information comes to light.

My fall project will be a more-or-less Matchless HC30.  After I ordered a set of iron from Edcor I ran across a blip that TDS, makers of Matchless transformers, had been acquired by Pacific Transformers.  I emailed them and heard back almost immediately that they didn't know but would be glad to look on the shelves if I could get some detail on the transformers I needed.  I sent what I had, and guessed along with some pictures and got a reply that they can wind them with three weeks lead time.  I've attached the quote.  So far the service has been excellent.

I'm still waiting for the datasheets to confirm they are the same units but the code numbers are encouraging.  Back in the day I got my hands on a couple EL34 power transformers but the lower-voltage iron was only occasionally available for around six hundred bucks.  If these guys can deliver single sets at $260 plus tax and shipping that makes this really reasonable for lots of homebrewers.

More when I get it, Skip

Title: Re: Possible source of 4xEL84 transformers
Post by: luthierwnc on August 11, 2021, 07:40:53 pm

Update:  I got the spec sheets and they seem to be just like the TDS units.  I've ordered a set.  Right now that data is proprietary but you can call and get the same information I did.  The man I spoke with said Pacific is organizing an audio transformer division to handle opportunities in that market.  So, FWIW, there is a new/old player in the winding business.  Good luck on all your projects, Skip

Title: Re: Possible source of 4xEL84 transformers
Post by: 72Blazer on August 11, 2021, 08:56:06 pm

FWIW,  Here is link to there catalog
https://www.pactran.com/assets/catalog.pdf

Vr
Jim

Title: Re: Possible source of 4xEL84 transformers
Post by: luthierwnc on August 11, 2021, 09:14:22 pm

Thanks 72Blazer,
These are completely new.  The spec sheets are dated 8/9/2021 for all three transformers.  Jay in their service center said they just started "Pacific Audio Magnetics" at https://pacificaudiomagnetics.com/.  The site isn't fully operational and Matchless-style iron isn't one of the brands anyway.  As I said in the intro; this is premature, but with Classictone going toes-up and Heyboer months behind, there might be a space for an established winder to build the brand.  If they got the original specs from TDS in the acquisition, that gives them a leg-up.

I'm not working for them and haven't even seen the iron, but pictures are identical to the battleship-gray transformers on DC-30 pictures. 

FWIW, Skip

Title: Re: Possible source of 4xEL84 transformers
Post by: luthierwnc on August 21, 2021, 10:00:09 am

Got them this morning.  The PT is exactly as I remembered it with prosciutto-thin laminates.  I'm guessing the TDS winding instructions made the transition.  Pacific wound these in five days.  I appreciate that.  The chassis isn't even completely designed yet so it will be a while before I hear this but for anyone looking for audio trannies, I think this is a solid source.  sh

Title: Re: Possible source of 4xEL84 transformers
Post by: Glenn on August 21, 2021, 01:50:03 pm

I have a dual tap Pacific PT that I have in my Rocket and and a Heyboer OT.
I have a 6.6k Pacific OT and a Hammond PT in my Express.
The Pacifico’s trannies are overbuilt and I like them a lot.
The OT sounds a lot better than the Edcor I used first, but that maybe due to the circuit.
Anyways good luck with the build.

Title: Re: Possible source of 4xEL84 transformers
Post by: luthierwnc on August 21, 2021, 06:10:14 pm

Thanks Glenn,  Hope this helps the lads.  sh