Hoffman Amplifiers Tube Amplifier Forum

Amp Stuff => Tube Amp Building - Tweaks - Repairs => Topic started by: Ledvedder on October 26, 2022, 10:13:21 pm

Title: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
Post by: Ledvedder on October 26, 2022, 10:13:21 pm

Has anyone built a 5e3 using the optimized layout seen here, https://robrobinette.com/5e3_Modifications.htm#Optimized_5E3_Layout?

I'm about to start a build, and I'm wondering if I should order this board, or just use the standard one that came with my Boothill kit.

Title: Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
Post by: acheld on October 27, 2022, 10:00:27 am

I'm a huge fan of Doug's turret boards.

But, I'd make sure his 3.125" (Y-axis) board will fit in your chassis.  If it's too big, you will have to deal with a cramped chassis -- not fun.

Robinette's layout is fine, though I might do the ground scheme differently (this is a minor quibble, just my opinion).

What about the board and layout that came with your kit?  Why not use those first, get your build done and then troubleshoot?

Title: Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
Post by: Ledvedder on October 27, 2022, 10:02:35 am

Quote from: acheld on October 27, 2022, 10:00:27 am

I'm a huge fan of Doug's turret boards.

But, I'd make sure his 3.125" (Y-axis) board will fit in your chassis.  If it's too big, you will have to deal with a cramped chassis -- not fun.

Robinette's layout is fine, though I might do the ground scheme differently (this is a minor quibble, just my opinion).

What about the board and layout that came with your kit?  Why not use those first, get your build done and then troubleshoot?

I hear you about just using the board that I have. But knowing myself, I'll always wonder if the "optimized" layout would be better.

Title: Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
Post by: acheld on October 27, 2022, 10:28:10 am

Quote

But knowing myself, I'll always wonder if the "optimized" layout would be better.

 :icon_biggrin:     That sort of attitude will ensure that you will go far with this hobby!

Seriously, this amp has been a favorite (for decades) with artists as it was built with Leo's layout.  So whether Rob's layout is "better" or "optimized" is debatable or a matter of opinion. 

Title: Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
Post by: thetragichero on October 27, 2022, 11:05:08 am

personally i'd use the turret board you have but put preamp grid stoppers connected directly to the preamp tube grids. i'd make sure to use grid stoppers on the power tubes as well

Title: Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
Post by: Dumbmonkey on February 08, 2023, 12:30:48 pm

Hi!
What did you end up doing?  Did you go with the optimized?  I'm currently building one, and I'm wondering if you have any advice. 
I did notice the board is bigger than the standard 5E3, and it is a little cramped...

Title: Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
Post by: Ledvedder on February 08, 2023, 12:53:00 pm

I just went with the standard layout on the board I got from Boothill.