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Hoffman Amps Forum image Author Topic: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch  (Read 5706 times)

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Offline TubeGeek

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Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« on: January 11, 2014, 02:02:14 pm »
I would like to install a switch to go between fixed bias and cathode bias on a tweed pro 5e5a build.  I figure using the 5e5 cathode bias circuit would work well. Correct me if I am wrong here please.

Does anyone have a handy diagram of how to accomplish this?

Offline sluckey

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #1 on: January 11, 2014, 02:10:48 pm »
here's one...
A schematic, layout, and hi-rez pics are very useful for troubleshooting your amp. Don't wait to be asked. JUST DO IT!

Offline TubeGeek

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #2 on: January 11, 2014, 02:19:02 pm »
Thanks Steve!

I knew it would be in your scrapbook…I looked before I posted but missed it the first time.

Offline HotBluePlates

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #3 on: January 11, 2014, 08:43:25 pm »
Add 1Ω resistors between pin 8 and the top of the cathode resistor and bypass cap for easy current measurement in both modes.

EDIT: I know you know that, but it might not be obvious to onlookers.  :icon_biggrin:
« Last Edit: January 11, 2014, 09:35:28 pm by HotBluePlates »

Offline TubeGeek

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #4 on: January 11, 2014, 09:33:25 pm »
 :thumbsup:

Offline sluckey

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #5 on: January 11, 2014, 09:49:25 pm »
Actually, it's not in the scrapbook on the website. Guess I need to update.
A schematic, layout, and hi-rez pics are very useful for troubleshooting your amp. Don't wait to be asked. JUST DO IT!

Offline TubeGeek

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #6 on: January 18, 2014, 09:31:32 pm »
Just finished up the Pro build today and it sounds great.  I like having the feature of fixed or cathode bias.

Quick question… I wouldn't think it is recommended to switch between the bias config's while the amp is on.  Best procedure is to power down and then switch?  Does it matter?

Opinions please :w2:

Offline HotBluePlates

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #7 on: January 18, 2014, 09:42:23 pm »
My concern would be a massive thump sent to the speaker on switching. Either due to differing d.c. bias levels, or simply because of the break-make action of the switch (however, your particular switch could be make-before-break, I don't know...).

Offline TubeGeek

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Re: Tweed Pro 5e5a cathode/fixed bias switch
« Reply #8 on: January 19, 2014, 12:22:54 am »
My concern would be a massive thump sent to the speaker on switching. Either due to differing d.c. bias levels, or simply because of the break-make action of the switch (however, your particular switch could be make-before-break, I don't know...).

You echo my thoughts too.  I'll recommend powering down before switching just to be on the safe side.

 


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