Need ideas for 1st 5e3 build

[sjturbo]

Re-thinking my first build. So with guidance from some here I have decided the Bluezmiester is may be a later project.  I'm new to tube topology and wiring technique but have a bit of analog and digital circuit building exp. The 5e3 seems like a better starting point. But I would like to build a 5E3 similar to the Richter Supra Luxe, (higher wattage 30W). I have read that it has 6L6s with a bigger GZ34 rectifier and larger output and power transformers. It uses a split load phase inverter and is cathode based power section and bigger 20w cathode resistors, (thanks doveman). I want to build a head design with controls in the front, not the top. I am on a bit of a tight budget but I would like to use quality componants. I have located a "kit" from Weber 5e3P that might be a good starting point but I'm not sure how to incorporate the things mentioned above? I would also like to add a line out, incorporate a VVR, and be able to use 4, 8 and 16ohm speakers. Other than Ceriatone I have not located another source for a "head" style chassis, anyone know of others? What Weber componants should I upgrade if any? Thanks in advance for source inputs and all suggestions and inputs!!

[nateflanigan]

I'll offer what advice I can.  Mojo offers a 5e3 in a head style cabinet.

I am on a bit of a tight budget but I would like to use quality componants.

Ultimately, you always get what you pay for, but that's the cool thing about DIY you can build stuff on the installment plan.  The bad thing is that it can be a pretty expensive habit to adopt.  A 5E3 is a pretty low parts count, so if you take it step by step, you'll get there.  Personally I don't get caught up in super high end caps and magical transformers, it all seems some what antithetical to the way these amps were made to begin with.  If you're not concerned with cosmetics you could by the undrilled chassis from mojo and build your own cab and save a good bit of cash.

But I would like to build a 5E3 similar to the Richter Supra Luxe, (higher wattage 30W)

I don't know anything about this amp but there's tons of folks making louder deluxes.  Allen amps makes a OT that can do both 6V6's and 6L6's so you could swap around to find what's right for you. 

[labb]

What you are looking at building is not a Fender 5E3 Tweed Deluxe and will not sound like one.

[jojokeo]

The list of "extras" is quite a list for newbie tube amp builder. These animals are not the same beasts as "analog and digital experience" making what? Effects boxes, computers, or ??? Regardless, I'd recommend something modest (like a normal 5E3 or simple 18watt w/out tremolo) w/out all of the bells and whistles for the first amp and then you'll be more equipped to expand your horizons and better know the whats, hows, and wants for a second amp.
You want your first experience to be successful and not frustration and failure, especially if you're making the investment but are already focused on a limited cash budget.

[stingray_65]

SJT,

My first build was a 5E3, what a wonderful amp!

With so many mods and so much dialogue I was tempted to add ALL SORTS of circuit changes right out of the gate.

I am so glad I did not.

The 5E3 and all those tweeds are so easy to mod and make changes on. that's likely why there is so many documented mods for them.

Just a suggestion, build it stock, play it, mod it if necessary.

My reasoning (and a lot of this is in hindsight) TONS of good well documented plans to follow, hard to go wrong! my only issue was to swap my OT primary leads because of howls and then I found I landed a wire wrong.

The success was very encouraging. Had I added mods and changes, it may have been a long time to straighten everything out and the gratification may not have been the same.

A well respected member of this forum has posted this quote too many times to count.

Stay with a known good layout

Great advice that I have to keep referring back to myself .

 

[Willabe]

stingray_65 is sharing with you "sound" wisdom, IMHO.    

I too built a 5E3 for my 1'st build, and had no problems. They are again, IMHO, great sounding and playing amps. I went on to do a few more builds after that (Tweed Bassman, with verb, and next the same, but with 6V6's with a BFDR OT) and all went well. I felt better about being able to do a little more once I had built the 5E3 with success.

IMHO, you can not go wrong building and playing thru a 5E3. I still have mine and still love it, been oh.... about 12 years?

I wish you well on what ever you decide to build!


       Thanks,   Brad