I don't fully understand how electrics work, I'm only starting to get interested in electronics and amplifiers, but how many ohms does the amp produce? And is there a way of setting them to a certain level?
@djtall23 - This amp produces about 18 watts of audio power into either a 4, 8, or 16 ohm load. For learning about electronics, I strongly recommend Forrest M. Mimms' book "Getting Started in Electronics". You can find it here at TubeDepot(dot)com under the "books" section.
I'm a tech by trade. I love building quality stuff. I'm in Australia. If anyone wants me to build one of these beauties for them just let me know & I'm sure we can sort something out. I can easily build one of these amps as well, or perhaps even better than Rob can.
fantastic video mate! people are whinging about the price, but it's about a third of a ready made one, geez louise! they end up with a beautiful thing that will probably outlive them! how many guys, when someone says to them - "you make nice music dude", can reply by saying - "yeah, & i built the amp too!". the feeling you get when you first switch on & hear the first note is priceless! - & i've only ever built tranny amps! i'd love 2 of your amps for my hifi! gotta luv them 2nd harmonics!
@niftynev2005 - If you are looking for some great Hi Fi tube amp kits, I can direct you to some of my favorites. Send me an email - tech(at)tubedepot(dot)com.
@WeaponsRandom - Check out the prices for similar US made kits (that have a step-by-step manual and phone support) and let me know what you find. Then compare our kit cost with equivalent finished amps.
@laurdy - good advice when working with energized equipment. However, if the equipment is disconnected from the AC wall voltage and there is no DC voltage stored in the filter caps (as verified with a multimeter), there is no shock hazard. Therefore you would be free to touch anything in the amp.
@186kms - I purchase the generic 18W chassis' from a different provider. I designed the kit to have upgraded options not offered with the original design.
@TubeDepotTV I trouble shot the amp and I think it needs a new fuse which i orderd from your website and new tubes and 2 rectifier tubes good custermer service and great website
Are you using flux for all your solder connections or just going with the inbuilt flux in the solder? Conflicting opinions on the use of separate flux, some folks say you don't need it because the rosin core already has it but others say it makes it much easier to get a nice solid connection. I love these videos, you are a great amp builder Rob.
@Gary1497 - the flux core of electronics grade solder is sufficient for most solder connections. However, if the parts to be joined are overly corroded / oxidized, or if you are reflowing a previously soldered connection, or if the connection is very large (like the back of a pot) additional flux is often needed.
@TubeDepotTV, Thanks Rob. I downloaded the instructions and the schematics for this amp and i'd like to congratulate you, this alone is a great teaching experience! just sitting and studying the connections between components is an education in itself!
Very nice im gonna be going to school for electronics and would love to do this on the side...ever since I picked up a soldering iron, iv been hooked...thanks for replying so promptly...will y'all be making a matchless or vox style kit anytime soon?
@warriorguitar1 - I have been a guitarist since I was about 14 yrs old and I learned electronics in the US Navy as an aircraft radio repairman. In the early 90's, I combined the two and here I am.
most solders used in electronics work have a flux core. This flux is often made from pine tree resin, bee's wax, and such. When the solder is used, the flux burns off the oxides on the metals making the solder adhere better. The remaining residue is the burnt tree resin and wax. It isn't corrosive, it can be left in place.
@16siemon - the present production model of this amp (the Marshall model# 1974) sells for street price of $2300 from Musician's Friend (MSRP $3350). In that context, $850 isn't too bad. How much do you want to spend on a kit? I might be able to assist you in locating a kit in your price range.
@16siemon - there may be kits available for $100 - $250 but that isn't anything we carry. At that price point, a $100 - $250 tube amp kit would probably be a 5W (or less) kit and likely would not have the speaker or the cabinet or the chassis or the tubes.
@44433391 A wooden chassis offers no protection from electrical noise. A wooden chassis is likely be very noisy. You could shield the inside with either shielding tape or shielding paint, this may work. You should run all your grounds to a central point at the power transformer and then connect this ground to your shielded chassis.
@madxboy1 - The combo cabinet for this kit turns out to be the most popular choice (I wouldn't have guessed that). This kit has been so popular that I've had a hard time keeping the cabinets in stock and the cabinet builder takes 3 - 4 weeks for construction. I'm stocking more of the cabinets now.
@madxboy1 - the filament wiring is the most difficult for me. It takes a great deal of concentration to get the wires to just the right length between sockets.
@madxboy1 - You are going to have a great time putting it together. And we look forward to hearing from you once you have it complete. Take lots of photos.
@H3lloSE - good soldering is having the right tools and a little practice. We have another video on soldering techniques that is helpful. As for guitar playing, I don't think any guitarist is as good as they want to be so you are in good company. I could certainly use an in flux of "good" in my guitar playing ... just haven't figured out where to buy it from. Most of us have the tools, now it is merely scheduling the time to practice.
@LUVITALL9 - I don't have plans to build a stand alone reverb unit like a Fender 6G15, but I do have plans to build an amp with reverb. The amp will be modeled after the old Thomas Organ Vox Cambridge which is a fantastic sounding amp.
@mcbrown8 - The amplifiers that were the inspiration for this kit ... the Watkins Dominator and the Marshall 18W ... were both UK designs with EL84 output tubes. American amplifiers for the most part during this period (early and mid 60's), favored the 6V6 as the preferred power tube for these smaller amps.
I have recently exchanged all the electronic components in an old guitar, including new pickups and coil tap switches without any prior knowledge, just research, and when it was completed and I plugged it in for the first time, I remember making a very similar sounding yeah! as I nodded in great approval. Extremely satisfying... I know it's a big leap, but I would love to advance, so I'll stay tuned and learn from a real pro.
@singing6stringer - this video is more an over view instead of a step-by-step description. The free manual (downloaded at the website) provides all the details.
can I know which right digram do you draw? please check again because after i download all the manual then i see it, i fell something not right with the digram and all the digram is not same..why???
it all wass verry nice and i alway's wanted to make an amp so i was realy happy and than i went to your website and i klicked it away as fast as i could.
Started building tube amps in early 80's. I was very fortunate because I had a dad who was trained in tube electronics in the Navy in 1950. He taught me all I needed to know. Back then we didn't have the internet so getting anything took a creative approach to getting parts etc. I paid 25 bucks to a guy in Hollywood when I moved there for a Mesa Boogie .22 Caliber & a Marshall 1969. I was 18 and gullible, but it was worth it. Room mate was amp guru Frank Levi III & a total coincidence in 87'.
@TubeDepotTV I don't know. I moved back to Ohio in 88' and stayed in touch with a mutual friend of ours and he said in around 92'- 'I think Frank is dead!', but then I said, ' Aw' come on. Frank's not dead, he was just in this magazine and they said he was designing the new Hi-Watt line.' All I know is that my friend Tony and I both had no clue, but we liked to kid about Frank. He was in his 40's and we were like 18-19.I'm 45 now so Frank would have to be an old man...wait, he was old then LOL.
@TubeDepotTV I was referring to my then 18 year old self thinking that Frank was 'old' in his 40's. Yeah' the irony is that I'm that age now...but I don't feel old. Frank didn't either as a matter of fact.
I was in Radio Shak today and it sucks. It has for about 30 years! Anyway, would you ever see a little nook in the store that catered to guitar amp builders? They usually try to cash in on the trends. Maybe amp building isn't quite mainstream enough? Maybe they don't want lawsuits? They suck.
@paulj0557 - Back in the 50's and 60's, there were many "Radio Shack" style store. Buying raw electronic components was common practice but that was an era when electronic equipment was expensive (and therefore repairable) and not disposable as most electronics are today. Radio Shack isn't likely to change their present business model. The money in phones is too easy and stock holders are formost concerned with quick returns. Thankfully the internet is the best resource for parts.
@TubeDepotTV Yes, the internet is amazing! Who needs RS? Except it was always nice to be able to go to any town USA and get a 20 uF at 450V...not any more.
So who has the best deals on electrolytic caps? I play organ and I have a 1946 model 310 Wurlitzer vibrato tone cabinet. It has a pair of amps in the top each with 2-6L6, 5U4, and a 6ca7...or wait it's a, I forget. Anyway, both amps have 2 cap cans with I believe 2, 20 uf & a 40 uf.
It costs way more for new cans than to just stuff them.
@paulj0557 - supply and demand drives the availability of parts. Sadly, the demand for multi-section can caps isn't very great therefore there aren't many manufacturers of this part. The 20uF can be substituted with 22uF cap and the 40uF can be substituted with a 47uF, both of which are available. I recommend installing individual caps in place of the multi-section can.
@razormusik - That is me twisting the red and black filament wires together. Using the drill makes it go much faster than by hand and provides a better looking twist.
@Mikeyyopz - TubeDepot sells this amp as a kit on our website. There is the combo version with a single 12" speaker and the head version. The prices are quoted there.
@EnvyInc - This is a cool job because I get to help other musicians and electronic hobbiests build stuff. Anyone can buy a store-bought amp. But it is much cooler to say, "I built it myself". I'm just increasing the chances to hear this response.
@und33dwarrior - good question and I thought the best way to explain the cost is to compare it with Marshall's new production, handwired version of this same amp, the 1974X model. So, why does the new Marshall handwired version of this amp cost 1400£ ($2300)? ... and with the Marshall version, you don't get the fun of building it.
@TubeDepotTV I have actually built a Marshall JCM 800 2203 from TedWeber. com, and it sounds totally amzing! I will see if I can upload a video of it later :)
@TubeDepotTV I can't find the kit on your site. Does it include this video? I ask because it looks like this video is a shortened version of an original...
@ZachDRUMMOND - we designed and sell this kit. We don't have a spitfire clone however you may check Ceriatone to see if they have a kit for a spitfire.
Rob is doing a great job with theese tube amps.I`d like to see how he builds the JTM 45 head guitar tube amplifier kit.I`m not going to build the amp but i just like waching theese videos.
Rob is doing a great job with theese tube amps.I`d like to see how he builds the JTM 45 head guitar tube amplifier kit.I`m not going to build the amp but i just like waching theese videos.
@frostseer - Hmmm ... Information regarding the upcoming JTM45+ kit continues to leak. I will confess, this in-the-near-future kit is going to be a tyrannosaurus rex of tone. A brutal bone crushing tone, definitely not for the weak. But this great tone comes at a price ... I'm making the kit the most challenging build yet. The guitarist that wants this sound is going to have to work for it.
@PRussy666 - oh I see the news has been leaked ... this amp is in the works and will be more than a copy. I've squeezed the JTM45, the 1987 MkII and the 2205 into the same build. This gives the builder the option of building any of these three amps from one kit. As well as the kit will have options for selecting between the various amps on the fly. It will be very cool ...
@GameLevelEditor - of course, in real time, it takes a little longer than 11min. From start to finish, it should take an average builder about 2 - 3 days (10 hours). And I'm sure your soldering is great too.
@TubeDepotTV: I saw it.. but i belive shipping to europe will be to expensive.. :(, the thing is that it would be fun to have a custom handbuilt amp like this.. something i can use for the rest of my life.... :D.
@Malikon1 - I designed this kit to be more challenging. The construction isn't really any harder, it just has more steps, especially with construction of the turret board. And the final amp is amazing.
@Exutus - 18W head version sells for $650 and the combo version sells for $850. The most expensive parts are the transformers, chassis, and cabinet. All the other parts are relatively inexpensive.
@skyguitar321 - my 14 year old daughter recently put together a tube kit for me. If you have someone with experience that can help you, I imagine you can get through this without problem. We have a tweed champ and tweed deluxe kit that is a little easier if you want something to start with.
@gigabrid - this is a fun project. I designed it to be more challenging although it means it will only take longer to finish. The manual describes the assembly step-by-step therefore just about anyone can complete the kit. And the sound is very cool.
@TubeDepotTV ouch...i'll stick with my crate palomino 15 watt...i'm so a.d.d. that i would never finish one of those amps, but i hear hand-wired is the way to get the sweetest tone ever!!!
I love these kits. How would you compare this kit to your JTM45 and Bassman kits as far as ease of assembly? Any chance of getting you to post a video of the JTM45 and the Bassman just to hear how they sound? Thanks.
@Superiocracy - I'm working on a JTM45-ish kit now, but it won't be ready for a couple of months. The 4x10 Bassman is in the future, maybe next year. If anyone is interested in being a beta tester, let me know. My email is tech(at)tubedepot(dot)com.
@betzaleldaniel - good question. The tone of most amps running wide open is very wonderful ... although often it can be unbearably loud. With a lower wattage amp, it is easier on everyone's ears to get that magical full volume tone.
@SupComFreak - I agree, I think that 18W is too loud at times, especially when trying to do home recording (which usually ends up late at night). Weber Speakers sell several fantastic attenuators for just such late night tracking. On a side note, I'm working on the JTM45 kit right now ... I'm very excited ... it is much louder and much more "rock" sounding. I'll need a bigger attenuator.
@TubeDepotTV Yeah. But I do love the sound of Tube Amps... Im' just thinking of building one by myself. I thought 6V6 Tubes would come in handy as the Power Amp, or? And a 12AX7 or so as Preamp. Im working on the schematics these long, boring days in school... hehe.
It would suck spending a month building a nice amp like this and then burning down your house when you plug it in for the first time.
elliott0 1 hour ago
Oh sure, every guitar player has to build an amp from scratch, it's tradition
MrROTD 5 days ago
@MrROTD - here is the easy way to complete the tradition.
TubeDepotTV 5 days ago
do they make them already made lol?
kylezeni 1 week ago
@kylezeni - nope ... you have to make it yourself. That is the fun.
TubeDepotTV 1 week ago
Yeeeaaaaaa
jhonnyfilosofer 1 week ago
@jhonnyfilosofer - oh yeaaaaa
TubeDepotTV 1 week ago
@TubeDepotTV kool aid propaganda much? hahaha :D
ZeppelinerAirways 6 days ago
Nice work, loved the video.
jakecvje 2 weeks ago
@jakecvje - thanks, Jake.
TubeDepotTV 2 weeks ago
Nice video! Very slick soldering work man!
TheOrderoftheOwl 2 weeks ago
@TheOrderoftheOwl - thank you ... thank you very much. Many a solder connection was made to get to this point.
TubeDepotTV 2 weeks ago
I don't fully understand how electrics work, I'm only starting to get interested in electronics and amplifiers, but how many ohms does the amp produce? And is there a way of setting them to a certain level?
djtall23 1 month ago
@djtall23 - This amp produces about 18 watts of audio power into either a 4, 8, or 16 ohm load. For learning about electronics, I strongly recommend Forrest M. Mimms' book "Getting Started in Electronics". You can find it here at TubeDepot(dot)com under the "books" section.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
@TubeDepotTV Thanks a million :)
djtall23 1 month ago
very nice editing
soapboxearth2 1 month ago
@soapboxearth2 - Thank you ... thank you very much. Our editing guy is most wonderful.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
I'm a tech by trade. I love building quality stuff. I'm in Australia. If anyone wants me to build one of these beauties for them just let me know & I'm sure we can sort something out. I can easily build one of these amps as well, or perhaps even better than Rob can.
niftynev2005 1 month ago
@niftynev2005 - hopefully everyone learns to build better than me, that is the goal.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
fantastic video mate! people are whinging about the price, but it's about a third of a ready made one, geez louise! they end up with a beautiful thing that will probably outlive them! how many guys, when someone says to them - "you make nice music dude", can reply by saying - "yeah, & i built the amp too!". the feeling you get when you first switch on & hear the first note is priceless! - & i've only ever built tranny amps! i'd love 2 of your amps for my hifi! gotta luv them 2nd harmonics!
niftynev2005 1 month ago
@niftynev2005 - If you are looking for some great Hi Fi tube amp kits, I can direct you to some of my favorites. Send me an email - tech(at)tubedepot(dot)com.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
So how much many do i have to have to build this AMP ?
siemniak 1 month ago
@siemniak - do you mean how much money?
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
@TubeDepotTV Yes, how much would it cost to build one of these?
TerminalDucky 1 month ago
@TubeDepotTV
Yes
siemniak 1 month ago
@siemniak - the combo version is $850 USD and the head version is $650 USD. You will need tools and solder to build this kit.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
wow talk about organized wiring nice
layzboy500 1 month ago
@layzboy500 - thank you very much. This is merely neat because of practice. You should see the first few attempts ... they were not so pretty.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
lol the look on his face when he heard it work.
smallclone 1 month ago
@smallclone - I'm easily entertained by great tone.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
@TubeDepotTV i enjoyed the video, your expression is priceless. im sure id be excited if i built something that actually worked lol
smallclone 1 month ago
850 bucks? No, too much.
WeaponsRandom 1 month ago
@WeaponsRandom - Check out the prices for similar US made kits (that have a step-by-step manual and phone support) and let me know what you find. Then compare our kit cost with equivalent finished amps.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
In last scene, builder seems like a man who in picture very much. Ha Ha Ha
chainarp 1 month ago
Awesome, thank you for the post!
TheRealPV2Ryan 1 month ago
I bet when you get close to the end you get this nervous twitch wanting to plug your Strat or Paul into it soooo bad LOL. Great vid. Looks like fun!
KyleCarrington 1 month ago
when working with valve equipment i always keep one hand im hy pocket to prevent a shock across the heart
laurdy 1 month ago
@laurdy - good advice when working with energized equipment. However, if the equipment is disconnected from the AC wall voltage and there is no DC voltage stored in the filter caps (as verified with a multimeter), there is no shock hazard. Therefore you would be free to touch anything in the amp.
TubeDepotTV 1 month ago
Just a question, why do you have to drill out some holes? Why weren’t the holes drilled the correct size during production?
186kms 2 months ago in playlist Tutorials & Stuff...
@186kms - I purchase the generic 18W chassis' from a different provider. I designed the kit to have upgraded options not offered with the original design.
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
I have finished mine but thier is no sound what do I do?
madxboy1 2 months ago
@madxboy1 - send an email to tech(at)tubedepot(dot)com
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
@TubeDepotTV I trouble shot the amp and I think it needs a new fuse which i orderd from your website and new tubes and 2 rectifier tubes good custermer service and great website
madxboy1 2 months ago
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madxboy1 2 months ago
Comment removed
madxboy1 2 months ago
Are you using flux for all your solder connections or just going with the inbuilt flux in the solder? Conflicting opinions on the use of separate flux, some folks say you don't need it because the rosin core already has it but others say it makes it much easier to get a nice solid connection. I love these videos, you are a great amp builder Rob.
Gary1497 2 months ago
@Gary1497 - the flux core of electronics grade solder is sufficient for most solder connections. However, if the parts to be joined are overly corroded / oxidized, or if you are reflowing a previously soldered connection, or if the connection is very large (like the back of a pot) additional flux is often needed.
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
@TubeDepotTV, Thanks Rob. I downloaded the instructions and the schematics for this amp and i'd like to congratulate you, this alone is a great teaching experience! just sitting and studying the connections between components is an education in itself!
Gary1497 2 months ago
Very nice im gonna be going to school for electronics and would love to do this on the side...ever since I picked up a soldering iron, iv been hooked...thanks for replying so promptly...will y'all be making a matchless or vox style kit anytime soon?
warriorguitar1 2 months ago
@warriorguitar1 - I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I don't have any plans for AC30 style amps just yet ... but I'm always open to new ideas.
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
Whats yalls background in terms of education? and what made yall want to do this for a living? i find this to be more than a hobby
warriorguitar1 2 months ago
@warriorguitar1 - I have been a guitarist since I was about 14 yrs old and I learned electronics in the US Navy as an aircraft radio repairman. In the early 90's, I combined the two and here I am.
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
most solders used in electronics work have a flux core. This flux is often made from pine tree resin, bee's wax, and such. When the solder is used, the flux burns off the oxides on the metals making the solder adhere better. The remaining residue is the burnt tree resin and wax. It isn't corrosive, it can be left in place.
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
What is the yellow resin produced when soldering?
GuernB2 2 months ago
My mouth is watering...but I just don't have the money :(
DaKilla738 3 months ago
@DaKilla738 - The amp is really sweet ... making one's mouth water even more.
TubeDepotTV 2 months ago
Well, the kit aint cheap, kinda dissapointed about that. 850,- is just a little too much for a student who wants to build his own amp:o
16siemon 3 months ago
@16siemon - the present production model of this amp (the Marshall model# 1974) sells for street price of $2300 from Musician's Friend (MSRP $3350). In that context, $850 isn't too bad. How much do you want to spend on a kit? I might be able to assist you in locating a kit in your price range.
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
@TubeDepotTV In that case your right, but its still to much though:P, I was thinking about $ 100-250
16siemon 3 months ago
@16siemon - there may be kits available for $100 - $250 but that isn't anything we carry. At that price point, a $100 - $250 tube amp kit would probably be a 5W (or less) kit and likely would not have the speaker or the cabinet or the chassis or the tubes.
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
You are Pro !!
A quality Video Clip, very sharp!
audiophile9002 3 months ago
@audiophile9002 - glad you enjoyed the video. Are you building your own amp?
TubeDepotTV 3 months ago
10:47 You look like a kid that just got the best Christmas present in the world haha
stevo946 4 months ago 2
@stevo946 - Oh yes, and this Christmas I have the JTM45+ kit coming out. I'm working on the video now and I'm equally excited.
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
Awesome video thanks!
bornburied 4 months ago
@bornburied - glad we could be of assistance
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
@44433391 - metal, either aluminum or steel. Aluminum is easier to cut, steel is usually less expensive and stronger.
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
@44433391 A wooden chassis offers no protection from electrical noise. A wooden chassis is likely be very noisy. You could shield the inside with either shielding tape or shielding paint, this may work. You should run all your grounds to a central point at the power transformer and then connect this ground to your shielded chassis.
TubeDepotTV 4 months ago
i bought the kit from tube depot . com the kit was complete when I got it had to w8 two days extra for cabinet but hey i do not mind
madxboy1 5 months ago
@madxboy1 - The combo cabinet for this kit turns out to be the most popular choice (I wouldn't have guessed that). This kit has been so popular that I've had a hard time keeping the cabinets in stock and the cabinet builder takes 3 - 4 weeks for construction. I'm stocking more of the cabinets now.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
started the filament wiring to day is ti hard to wire the filament?
madxboy1 5 months ago
@madxboy1 - the filament wiring is the most difficult for me. It takes a great deal of concentration to get the wires to just the right length between sockets.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
I bought one of these still building it started to day
madxboy1 5 months ago
@madxboy1 - You are going to have a great time putting it together. And we look forward to hearing from you once you have it complete. Take lots of photos.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
That's nice.
Almost refueling my passion for tubes.
yo6ial 5 months ago
@yo6ial - I would consider your passion fueled. It's an easy amp to build and it sounds fantastic once it is completed.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
ur amazing dude xD
H3lloSE 5 months ago
@H3lloSE - no way ... you are amazing. Keep the world rockin'
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Ye, amazing at sucking with a soldering iron..and guitaring ingeneral lol xD
H3lloSE 5 months ago
@H3lloSE - good soldering is having the right tools and a little practice. We have another video on soldering techniques that is helpful. As for guitar playing, I don't think any guitarist is as good as they want to be so you are in good company. I could certainly use an in flux of "good" in my guitar playing ... just haven't figured out where to buy it from. Most of us have the tools, now it is merely scheduling the time to practice.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
@TubeDepotTV haha true. I hope that one day I will own one of your custom amps :) Budget is low at the moment haha xD
H3lloSE 5 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@TubeDepotTV haha true. I hope that one day I will own one of your custom amps :) Budget is low at the moment haha xD
H3lloSE 5 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Ye, amazing at sucking with a soldering iron..and guitaring ingeneral lol xD
H3lloSE 5 months ago
Rob, any plans to make a tube reverb kit? I would order 1 of those...
LUVITALL9 5 months ago
@LUVITALL9 - I don't have plans to build a stand alone reverb unit like a Fender 6G15, but I do have plans to build an amp with reverb. The amp will be modeled after the old Thomas Organ Vox Cambridge which is a fantastic sounding amp.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Geez, that sounds great as well!
LUVITALL9 5 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@TubeDepotTV Geez, that sounds great as well!
LUVITALL9 5 months ago
what makes it British???
mcbrown8 6 months ago
@mcbrown8 - The amplifiers that were the inspiration for this kit ... the Watkins Dominator and the Marshall 18W ... were both UK designs with EL84 output tubes. American amplifiers for the most part during this period (early and mid 60's), favored the 6V6 as the preferred power tube for these smaller amps.
TubeDepotTV 5 months ago
Fantastic; utmost respect... very inspiring.
I have recently exchanged all the electronic components in an old guitar, including new pickups and coil tap switches without any prior knowledge, just research, and when it was completed and I plugged it in for the first time, I remember making a very similar sounding yeah! as I nodded in great approval. Extremely satisfying... I know it's a big leap, but I would love to advance, so I'll stay tuned and learn from a real pro.
Many thanks.
greg16266 6 months ago
@greg16266 - Our next project is a 45W amp ... stay tuned.
TubeDepotTV 6 months ago
Comment removed
greg16266 6 months ago
@singing6stringer - this video is more an over view instead of a step-by-step description. The free manual (downloaded at the website) provides all the details.
TubeDepotTV 6 months ago
I love that "Yeah" at the end, simply because I feel like thats the way I would have said it after making such a tube amp.
Darknessfalls32 6 months ago
do u have face plates that go to 11?
TheAlexkru 7 months ago 2
@TheAlexkru - that would be cool. I'll have to check into reworking our faceplates to do just that.
TubeDepotTV 7 months ago
You're good. Thanks for documenting.
essoterric 8 months ago
@essoterric - glad you liked.
TubeDepotTV 8 months ago
can I know which right digram do you draw? please check again because after i download all the manual then i see it, i fell something not right with the digram and all the digram is not same..why???
zulflbeatz 8 months ago
@zulflbeatz - send an email to tech(at)tubedepot(dot)com, and I will send you all the diagrams and layouts that I have.
TubeDepotTV 8 months ago
it all wass verry nice and i alway's wanted to make an amp so i was realy happy and than i went to your website and i klicked it away as fast as i could.
vlinderbom2 8 months ago
@vlinderbom2 - the kit is pretty awesome.
TubeDepotTV 8 months ago
@TubeDepotTV thx :)
vlinderbom2 8 months ago
are you guys shiping in greece???
stamrockhard 8 months ago
@stamrockhard - I can ship the kit to Greece.
TubeDepotTV 8 months ago
Started building tube amps in early 80's. I was very fortunate because I had a dad who was trained in tube electronics in the Navy in 1950. He taught me all I needed to know. Back then we didn't have the internet so getting anything took a creative approach to getting parts etc. I paid 25 bucks to a guy in Hollywood when I moved there for a Mesa Boogie .22 Caliber & a Marshall 1969. I was 18 and gullible, but it was worth it. Room mate was amp guru Frank Levi III & a total coincidence in 87'.
paulj0557 9 months ago
@paulj0557 - awesome story. Where is Frank now?
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
@TubeDepotTV I don't know. I moved back to Ohio in 88' and stayed in touch with a mutual friend of ours and he said in around 92'- 'I think Frank is dead!', but then I said, ' Aw' come on. Frank's not dead, he was just in this magazine and they said he was designing the new Hi-Watt line.' All I know is that my friend Tony and I both had no clue, but we liked to kid about Frank. He was in his 40's and we were like 18-19.I'm 45 now so Frank would have to be an old man...wait, he was old then LOL.
paulj0557 9 months ago
@paulj0557 - 45 is old? Shoot ...
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
@TubeDepotTV I was referring to my then 18 year old self thinking that Frank was 'old' in his 40's. Yeah' the irony is that I'm that age now...but I don't feel old. Frank didn't either as a matter of fact.
I was in Radio Shak today and it sucks. It has for about 30 years! Anyway, would you ever see a little nook in the store that catered to guitar amp builders? They usually try to cash in on the trends. Maybe amp building isn't quite mainstream enough? Maybe they don't want lawsuits? They suck.
paulj0557 9 months ago
@paulj0557 - Back in the 50's and 60's, there were many "Radio Shack" style store. Buying raw electronic components was common practice but that was an era when electronic equipment was expensive (and therefore repairable) and not disposable as most electronics are today. Radio Shack isn't likely to change their present business model. The money in phones is too easy and stock holders are formost concerned with quick returns. Thankfully the internet is the best resource for parts.
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Yes, the internet is amazing! Who needs RS? Except it was always nice to be able to go to any town USA and get a 20 uF at 450V...not any more.
So who has the best deals on electrolytic caps? I play organ and I have a 1946 model 310 Wurlitzer vibrato tone cabinet. It has a pair of amps in the top each with 2-6L6, 5U4, and a 6ca7...or wait it's a, I forget. Anyway, both amps have 2 cap cans with I believe 2, 20 uf & a 40 uf.
It costs way more for new cans than to just stuff them.
paulj0557 9 months ago
@paulj0557 - supply and demand drives the availability of parts. Sadly, the demand for multi-section can caps isn't very great therefore there aren't many manufacturers of this part. The 20uF can be substituted with 22uF cap and the 40uF can be substituted with a 47uF, both of which are available. I recommend installing individual caps in place of the multi-section can.
TubeDepotTV 9 months ago
What was that thing with the drill at 3:40?
razormusik 10 months ago
@razormusik - That is me twisting the red and black filament wires together. Using the drill makes it go much faster than by hand and provides a better looking twist.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
How much will ALL supplies together cost if I were to buy all brand new?
Please and thank you.
By the way, I love Tube Depot. I learn everything from you guys!
Mikeyyopz 10 months ago
@Mikeyyopz - TubeDepot sells this amp as a kit on our website. There is the combo version with a single 12" speaker and the head version. The prices are quoted there.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
I belive this is good stuff!! Oh yeah
MsCaleb79 10 months ago
@MsCaleb79 - oh yeah indeed ... way cool. And the sound rocks.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
Rob Hull seriously has one of the coolest jobs in the world.
EnvyInc 10 months ago
@EnvyInc - This is a cool job because I get to help other musicians and electronic hobbiests build stuff. Anyone can buy a store-bought amp. But it is much cooler to say, "I built it myself". I'm just increasing the chances to hear this response.
TubeDepotTV 10 months ago
why is this kit soo dear? come on i could buy a vintage one made for like £200-300
und33dwarrior 11 months ago
@und33dwarrior - good question and I thought the best way to explain the cost is to compare it with Marshall's new production, handwired version of this same amp, the 1974X model. So, why does the new Marshall handwired version of this amp cost 1400£ ($2300)? ... and with the Marshall version, you don't get the fun of building it.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago
Great job man
parek142536 11 months ago
@parek142536 - thanks for the cool comment.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago
@TubeDepotTV I have actually built a Marshall JCM 800 2203 from TedWeber. com, and it sounds totally amzing! I will see if I can upload a video of it later :)
Nice video btw ;)
LLLGuitar 11 months ago
lol at 7:19 im gonna put the nuts on this
heyfuckyou1997 11 months ago
@heyfuckyou1997 - I'm just thankful to have them with me ... usually my wife keeps them with her.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago 2
@TubeDepotTV I can't find the kit on your site. Does it include this video? I ask because it looks like this video is a shortened version of an original...
ZachDRUMMOND 11 months ago
@TubeDepotTV Yea, I'm gonna give it a shot this year. You guys sell these kits? Do you have a matchless spitfire clone?
ZachDRUMMOND 11 months ago
@ZachDRUMMOND - we designed and sell this kit. We don't have a spitfire clone however you may check Ceriatone to see if they have a kit for a spitfire.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago
Holy freaking cow...I really wanna do this.
ZachDRUMMOND 11 months ago
@ZachDRUMMOND - Zach, building your own amp is easier than you think.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago
Rob is doing a great job with theese tube amps.I`d like to see how he builds the JTM 45 head guitar tube amplifier kit.I`m not going to build the amp but i just like waching theese videos.
frostseer 11 months ago
Rob is doing a great job with theese tube amps.I`d like to see how he builds the JTM 45 head guitar tube amplifier kit.I`m not going to build the amp but i just like waching theese videos.
frostseer 11 months ago
@frostseer - Hmmm ... Information regarding the upcoming JTM45+ kit continues to leak. I will confess, this in-the-near-future kit is going to be a tyrannosaurus rex of tone. A brutal bone crushing tone, definitely not for the weak. But this great tone comes at a price ... I'm making the kit the most challenging build yet. The guitarist that wants this sound is going to have to work for it.
TubeDepotTV 11 months ago
That sounds deadly. When do you think it will be ready? Looking forward to its release!
PRussy666 1 year ago
@PRussy666 - I amp looking at somewhere near the end of this summer.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
when will the jtm 45 copy be out?
PRussy666 1 year ago
@PRussy666 - oh I see the news has been leaked ... this amp is in the works and will be more than a copy. I've squeezed the JTM45, the 1987 MkII and the 2205 into the same build. This gives the builder the option of building any of these three amps from one kit. As well as the kit will have options for selecting between the various amps on the fly. It will be very cool ...
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
10:59 build and already tubed up and jammin yehhhhh! Jk no but that was a clean build, impressive soldering etiquette.
GameLevelEditor 1 year ago
@GameLevelEditor - of course, in real time, it takes a little longer than 11min. From start to finish, it should take an average builder about 2 - 3 days (10 hours). And I'm sure your soldering is great too.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Nice amp... where can i buy the head cabinett that looks similar to an old marshall head.. ??
HearGear 1 year ago
@HearGear - we have the small head cabinet for this amp. Check out our website: tubedepot(dot)com
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV: I saw it.. but i belive shipping to europe will be to expensive.. :(, the thing is that it would be fun to have a custom handbuilt amp like this.. something i can use for the rest of my life.... :D.
HearGear 1 year ago
@HearGear - the tubeampdoctor sells an 18W kit and they are in Germany. Look them up online and see if the prices are any better.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
I'm floored after watching this video, just amazing. Great job man, what a cool kit.
Malikon1 1 year ago
@Malikon1 - I designed this kit to be more challenging. The construction isn't really any harder, it just has more steps, especially with construction of the turret board. And the final amp is amazing.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@Exutus - 18W head version sells for $650 and the combo version sells for $850. The most expensive parts are the transformers, chassis, and cabinet. All the other parts are relatively inexpensive.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
Hi. Where are these kits available?
manfromregina 1 year ago
@manfromregina - we sell this kit on our website, tubedepot(dot)com
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
aparently i cant work on one of these because im too young
skyguitar321 1 year ago
@skyguitar321 - my 14 year old daughter recently put together a tube kit for me. If you have someone with experience that can help you, I imagine you can get through this without problem. We have a tweed champ and tweed deluxe kit that is a little easier if you want something to start with.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV im still not old enough and there is no one who i know has experience with amps
skyguitar321 1 year ago
@skyguitar321
Thanks!
happy Festivus
manfromregina 1 year ago
I love this project...excellent!
gigabrid 1 year ago
@gigabrid - this is a fun project. I designed it to be more challenging although it means it will only take longer to finish. The manual describes the assembly step-by-step therefore just about anyone can complete the kit. And the sound is very cool.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
subscribe ^^
daxweb 1 year ago
@daxweb - excellent ... you are now one of us. Come to the light ... and don't forget your soldering iron.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV how mych do these amp kits usually cost?
maciverandy 1 year ago
@maciverandy - we sell the head version for $649.95 and the combo version for $849.95
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV ouch...i'll stick with my crate palomino 15 watt...i'm so a.d.d. that i would never finish one of those amps, but i hear hand-wired is the way to get the sweetest tone ever!!!
maciverandy 1 year ago
I'm blown away by how impeccably clean your work is, Rob. So tidy, it's sickening.
ILikeJuice 1 year ago
@ILikeJuice - thanks ... now if only I could get my son to keep his room as equally neat.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
I love these kits. How would you compare this kit to your JTM45 and Bassman kits as far as ease of assembly? Any chance of getting you to post a video of the JTM45 and the Bassman just to hear how they sound? Thanks.
Superiocracy 1 year ago
@Superiocracy - I'm working on a JTM45-ish kit now, but it won't be ready for a couple of months. The 4x10 Bassman is in the future, maybe next year. If anyone is interested in being a beta tester, let me know. My email is tech(at)tubedepot(dot)com.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
If you are going through the pain of building an amp why only 18W?
betzaleldaniel 1 year ago
@betzaleldaniel - good question. The tone of most amps running wide open is very wonderful ... although often it can be unbearably loud. With a lower wattage amp, it is easier on everyone's ears to get that magical full volume tone.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@betzaleldaniel A 18 Watt Tube Amp COULD burst your ears I think... They have Much more power than Transistor Amps.
But loudness isnt' the only Important thing, or?
btw, Sounds very Nice!
SupComFreak 1 year ago
@SupComFreak - I agree, I think that 18W is too loud at times, especially when trying to do home recording (which usually ends up late at night). Weber Speakers sell several fantastic attenuators for just such late night tracking. On a side note, I'm working on the JTM45 kit right now ... I'm very excited ... it is much louder and much more "rock" sounding. I'll need a bigger attenuator.
TubeDepotTV 1 year ago
@TubeDepotTV Yeah. But I do love the sound of Tube Amps... Im' just thinking of building one by myself. I thought 6V6 Tubes would come in handy as the Power Amp, or? And a 12AX7 or so as Preamp. Im working on the schematics these long, boring days in school... hehe.
SupComFreak 1 year ago