Welcome To the Hoffman Amplifiers Forum

September 08, 2025, 07:54:34 am
guest image
Welcome, Guest. Please login or register.
-User Name
-Password



Hoffman Amps Forum image Author Topic: New EL84 15 watt build  (Read 5265 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline kingplank

  • Level 1
  • *
  • Posts: 62
Hoffman Amps Forum image
New EL84 15 watt build
« on: October 10, 2016, 10:22:18 pm »
Hi,
It 's been 3 years since I build a tube amp. This time a little high gain amp with cathode bias and EL84 tubes.
The schematic is unchecked and unproven, but I am going to take a go at it. maybe the good folks here can give an advice or two.


For transformers, I have a 6.3v 5amps x 2 heater transformer, and a mains trans with 120v and 220v output tabs. For OT, it is an old Dynaco A470 pulled from a ST-70


The schematic shows 238v and 173v output vs my 220v and 120v . My question is: If I run with the low power mode with so low voltage do I need to switch R47?


Second question: Is it a good idea to insert another Volume pot, in front or behind V3A?


If you see any drastic errors of this schematic, please let me know


Thanks in advance
KP

Offline tubenit

  • Global Moderator
  • Level 5
  • ******
  • Posts: 10274
  • Life is a daring adventure or nothing at all!
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #1 on: October 11, 2016, 06:55:55 am »
I would be inclined to put in a PPIMV.   I would replace R27 and R28 with a 500ka pot.

All of that is a matter of personal taste and not essential to do.

With respect, Tubenit

Offline kingplank

  • Level 1
  • *
  • Posts: 62
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #2 on: October 15, 2016, 11:57:49 am »
Components layout, with 60 pin turret board.
Just in case someone is interested
« Last Edit: October 15, 2016, 12:09:44 pm by kingplank »

Offline kingplank

  • Level 1
  • *
  • Posts: 62
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #3 on: October 17, 2016, 08:06:36 pm »
Wondering if the mains transformer is big enough, 60VA at primary at 220V,   @120V=  136ma

Offline shooter

  • Level 5
  • *******
  • Posts: 11015
  • Karma Loves haters
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #4 on: October 17, 2016, 08:35:46 pm »
Quote
Wondering if the mains transformer is big enough
I'd give the 2 '84s 100mA, 2mA each 12XX tubes.  you'll have to look up heater draw for all your tubes from tube datasheets
Went Class C for efficiency

Offline kingplank

  • Level 1
  • *
  • Posts: 62
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #5 on: October 19, 2016, 08:49:07 am »
Thanks Shooter. I took your advise and exchange the xfmr , now I have 500ma.
The heater transformer is good for 5A x 2. Its going to run cool.

Any predictions how this amp will sound at the 120v transformer secondary tap?

Offline shooter

  • Level 5
  • *******
  • Posts: 11015
  • Karma Loves haters
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #6 on: October 19, 2016, 09:38:41 am »
Quote
Any predictions how this amp will sound
that's pretty subjective, B+ is part of the equation, but pre-amp tone shaping has lots to do with it.  I've build 3-4 EL84's PSE not PP, and they don't mind being overdriven, they are easy to overdrive. once it's up and playing, there are wise folks here that have spent many hours bending and shaping tone, you'll have fun!
Went Class C for efficiency

Offline kingplank

  • Level 1
  • *
  • Posts: 62
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #7 on: November 07, 2016, 09:07:34 am »
Power supply and heaters wired up

Offline kingplank

  • Level 1
  • *
  • Posts: 62
Hoffman Amps Forum image
Re: New EL84 15 watt build
« Reply #8 on: December 01, 2016, 09:10:42 am »
Corrected layout drawing, amp is 100% working. Other than speaker/cabinet differences, it definitely has the that signature Dark Terror tone.

Will post sound clips later

 


Choose a link from the
Hoffman Amplifiers parts catalog
Mobile Device
Catalog Link
Yard Sale
Discontinued
Misc. Hardware
What's New Board Building
 Parts
Amp trim
Handles
Lamps
Diodes
Hoffman Turret
 Boards
Channel
Switching
Resistors Fender Eyelet
 Boards
Screws/Nuts
Washers
Jacks/Plugs
Connectors
Misc Eyelet
Boards
Tools
Capacitors Custom Boards
Tubes
Valves
Pots
Knobs
Fuses/Cords Chassis
Tube
Sockets
Switches Wire
Cable


Handy Links
Tube Amp Library
Tube Amp
Schematics library
Design a custom Eyelet or
Turret Board
DIY Layout Creator
File analyzer program
DIY Layout Creator
File library
Transformer Wiring
Diagrams
Hoffmanamps
Facebook page
Hoffman Amplifiers
Discount Program


password