I returned to DIY electronics in 2009 after a 20 year pause by building a few kits to get in shape. This blog is for me to keep track of my progress.
My systems
Someone pointed out that it's interesting to see all the components in a system, rather than discuss them individually. I liked the idea - I think it also shows what projects ended up actually useful - so here are my systems (I have four with diy components).
The music I listen to is an eclectic mix of classical music (such as Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky), opera (mostly arias), jazz (Armstrong) and some pop music.
The first system is the one I listen to the most:
The second system is the testbed for whatever project I may be working on:
The third is the best sounding so far, has the highest WAF and is likely to stay around for some time:
The last is my first foray into vinyl and is likely to change:
Comparing the list above with the other entries in this blog, it is obvious that some - quite a few, actually - projects did not make it to the systems. Some of them are being modded, some have been discarded with parts re-used, but some are quietly sitting on shelves and waiting for their turn... What do you do with the projects you no longer need?
The music I listen to is an eclectic mix of classical music (such as Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky), opera (mostly arias), jazz (Armstrong) and some pop music.
The first system is the one I listen to the most:
- exposure 2010S CD player with Tentlabs low-jitter clock
- B1 clone preamp
- F5 clone
- Vintage Celestion DITTON 15XR speakers
The second system is the testbed for whatever project I may be working on:
- Audio Analogue Crescendo CD player
- B1 clone preamp
- Zen V4 with SiC power JFET in the gain stage
- Klipsch Heresy III speakers
The third is the best sounding so far, has the highest WAF and is likely to stay around for some time:
- Sony CDP-XB920 CD Player
- Elekit TU-879S integrated amp
- Full range back loaded horns with Fostex FE206E (built from a kit)
The last is my first foray into vinyl and is likely to change:
- Pro-Ject Debut III with the stock Ortofon OM-5e cartridge
- Pearl 2 phono stage
- Goldpoint's "passive preamp"
- Cathode Follower Amplfier built with Bruce Rozenblit's plans.
- Full range back loaded horns with Fostex FF165K (again, built from a kit)
Comparing the list above with the other entries in this blog, it is obvious that some - quite a few, actually - projects did not make it to the systems. Some of them are being modded, some have been discarded with parts re-used, but some are quietly sitting on shelves and waiting for their turn... What do you do with the projects you no longer need?
Total Comments 3
Comments
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Do you still feel the same about the Elekit TU-879S integrated amp? I've built ss kits some years ago and want to restart my old hobby with a tube kit. I've seen kits from $200 to $2000 and am willing to spend a reasonable amount if I will end up with a worthwhile amp, actually very worthwhile is more honest.
I'm struggling for a starting point and any and all suggestions are appreciated. (I also realize what a novice I am after reading many DYI Audio posts.)
Thanks...AndyaPosted 6th June 2012 at 11:34 PM by andya
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Have you tried the SED KT88 tubes in the tu-879S, and if so what was the result?
Thanks...AndyaPosted 8th June 2012 at 06:28 PM by andya
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Sorry for the delay - I have been busy with other things...Quote:Originally Posted by andya
Have you tried the SED KT88 tubes in the tu-879S, and if so what was the result?
Thanks...Andya
Yes, I still like the Elekit TU-879S. I did not try KT88s with it, although I did try EL34s and did not like them - I prefer 6L6GCs.
My experience with tube kits is limited, but I feel that the more expensive kits do not necessarily give you better sound. I guess what is important is not the price but the topology, the tubes, the irons. For example, the Velleman K4040 I have built leaves a lot to be desired. Looking back, I would be better off paying the same money for a 2A3 based Loftin-White kit - if only I saw one back then.Posted 25th June 2012 at 03:06 PM by alexcp
