Phil Budgell wrote:

I recently purchased one of these little amps and was wondering what I
should do in terms of mods if any. I am not at all familiar with tubes so I
really can't say if I am getting good sound right now or not. Any help would
be greatly appreciated.

Phil

Phil,

the general consensus on these little integrated amps goes something like
this:

- good output iron
- mundane and average circuit
- average to poor grade parts
- average sound

The general thought is that you can use the iron (power and output) to
make a decent low power tube amp, or you can mod the existing amp by
more or less gutting it, and removing non essential circuit parts (like the
tone controls, any rocker switch that the signal goes through, improving
the wiring, and upgrading the power supply filtering, using film caps
and metal film or similar higher grade resistors.

What exactly to do depends upon your experience and skill level.

Based upon your question, I assume you are a neophyte on tube gear,
so I suggest doing the minumum to start; change the caps out for
better caps; and/or try switching it to triode mode.

--This assumes you can solder, and that you will not electrocute
or shock yourself putting your hands inside the unit. There are dangerous
and DEADLY voltages present in that unit. --

If you are unsure, read a whole lot before attempting this sort of work.

There a multiple web publications, and print publications on tubes, tube amps
and the hobby. Find a local person who knows audio, tubes or even an experienced
ham radio operator (one who builds stuff...) for support.

Repeat: THERE ARE DEADLY VOLTAGES PRESENT IN TUBE GEAR.

Regards,

_-_-bear


--
_-_- BEAR Labs
- Custom Audio Equipment, Cables, Mods, Repairs -
http://www.bearlabs.com