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Ask an Expert Forum Vacuum tubes (valves)
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Vacuum tubes (valves)

Dimebaggins
Dimebaggins over 2 years ago

I would like to build audio amplifiers. I assume that a vt can be overdriven like a transistor, or is there other ways to create distortion? Are there different configurations (like emitter-follower etc with transistors). What vts have the highest gain, which have the cleanest amplification. Basically, any and all info would be great. I have a basic understanding of electronics, but no education in the field. I would love to build affordable tube amps but its an "ancient" technology. Its kinda like saying i want to build Model As when everybody else is building Corvettes.  : )

Thanks for any help!

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  • robogary
    robogary over 2 years ago +3
    tube amplifiers are still alive and popular, especially with electric guitars. I'd start with designs already proven, and experiment, before trying to design them. https://www.westernelectric.com/li…
  • dougw
    dougw over 2 years ago +3
    I built an experimental tube amp you can have a look at.... Tube Amp on a PCB
  • shabaz
    shabaz over 2 years ago +2
    Hi, Valves/tubes are not something I know anything at all about, but I've definitely seen a lot of literature on it. There's a wealth of articles here: https://www.pearl-hifi.com/06_Lit_Archive/Lit_Archive…
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  • phoenixcomm
    phoenixcomm over 2 years ago

     Dimebaggins  Ok, so why would you want to "overdrive" a tube?? I have some stuff that glows :) And the idea is to always work insides its CURVE. That way nice clean sound. 

    look at my preamp for my turntable.. Hiraga Preamp

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  • phoenixcomm
    phoenixcomm over 2 years ago

     Dimebaggins  Ok, so why would you want to "overdrive" a tube?? I have some stuff that glows :) And the idea is to always work insides its CURVE. That way nice clean sound. 

    look at my preamp for my turntable.. Hiraga Preamp

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