Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: Ross on November 09, 2021, 06:52:37 am

Title: Rectifier limiting resistors
Post by: Ross on November 09, 2021, 06:52:37 am
In the Amperex spec sheet for the 5AR4 tube, current limiting resistors are called for in capacitor filtered circuits though I've yet to see them in guitar amp schematics. Am I missing something?
Title: Re: Rectifier limiting resistors
Post by: pdf64 on November 09, 2021, 06:59:50 am
Vintage transformers were designed to incorporate such resistance into the HT winding. With modern transformers, you have to check. It’s perceived as a bad thing for transformers to get warm in use, so manufacturers seem to try to reduce such copper losses where feasible. I’ve seen some modern amp designs with additional resistors.
Title: Re: Rectifier limiting resistors
Post by: tubeswell on November 09, 2021, 05:02:52 pm
Am I missing something?


I take it you read 1/2 way down this page? http://www.valvewizard.co.uk/bridge.html


I think 'traditional' guitar amps didn't have these because tube rectifiers (and PTs) are generally rugged enough to handle abuse. (Plus current limiting resistors on the HT winding steal a bit of B+ voltage)
Title: Re: Rectifier limiting resistors
Post by: HotBluePlates on November 09, 2021, 07:09:15 pm
Vintage transformers were designed to incorporate such resistance into the HT winding. ...
I think 'traditional' guitar amps didn't have these because tube rectifiers (and PTs) are generally rugged enough to handle abuse. ...

I used to own a 1964 Deluxe Reverb.  I measured its power transformer, and it had significantly higher winding resistance than modern replace PTs.  I also didn't get the undesired-high-B+ voltage, and found that amp expected 120vac on the primary.

I suspect the higher winding resistance gives a subtly softer attack to the sound, as it would contribute slightly to sag/compression.