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Hoffman Amps Forum image Author Topic: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?  (Read 3163 times)

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Offline Ledvedder

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Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
« 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.
« Last Edit: October 26, 2022, 10:16:45 pm by Ledvedder »

Offline acheld

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Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
« Reply #1 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?

Offline Ledvedder

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Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
« Reply #2 on: October 27, 2022, 10:02:35 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.

Offline acheld

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Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
« Reply #3 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. 

Offline thetragichero

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Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
« Reply #4 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

Offline Dumbmonkey

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Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
« Reply #5 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...

Offline Ledvedder

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Re: Optimized vs standard 5e3 layout?
« Reply #6 on: February 08, 2023, 12:53:00 pm »
I just went with the standard layout on the board I got from Boothill.

 


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