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DIY : 3-ch Power Amplifier?

565 Views 7 Replies 5 Participants Last post by jigesh, Nov 23, 2002

jigesh

Discussion Starter · Nov 20, 2002

I liked specifications of Bryston 6SST (300wpc, 3-ch amp), but can't afford it.

So I was thinking to go DIY route if anyone can direct me to approriate web URLs for precision discrete components and/or kits. Thank you.

I understand basics of power supplies/rectifiers/regulated power supply ICs/power transistors (due to EE background) and have previous hands-on experience (outside the US) with building smaller power supplies. I assume (and I may be wrong), power amplifiers might not be that daunting a task. Also, an incentive for me is that contrary to those DIY subwoofer/speaker projects, I can easily get away with my disastrous carpentry skills!

Thank you.

Jigesh

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Paul Scarpelli

· #2 · Nov 20, 2002

Quote:

I assume (and I may be wrong), power amplifiers might not be that daunting a task.

Yes, you may be wrong. Look for a good used amplifier, instead. They hardly ever wear out, and they have poor resale. It's a buyer's market. Do a DIY amp project only if you are a rabid hobbyist. I've built a half dozen from kits, and breathing solder smoke for 20 hours isn't all that it's cracked up to be...

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jigesh

Discussion Starter · #3 · Nov 20, 2002

Thanks, Paul for your words of experience. I'll look at audiogon.

Jigesh

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wireburn

· #4 · Nov 20, 2002

Hey, if you are into DIY I would check out Aspen and their forum . The kits come from Australia and are the product of years of research and component selection. They come with all the matched parts you need plus service like you wouldn't believe. Just supply the case, wiring, switches and connectors of your choice. A 3-channel version can be easily accommodated. I've built two stereo 55W units and have a tube preamplifier kit on order. I'm thinking of building a 100W 3-channel in the future. These amps are truly marvelous with a sound all their own.

-Mike

[edit: I don't have anything to gain by promoting this vendor, just a happy customer!]

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jigesh

Discussion Starter · #5 · Nov 20, 2002

Thanks, Mike for the links. I'll look into them. However, I am interested in at least 200 Watts rms per channel (8 ohms, all-driven).

Jigesh

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jamin

· #6 · Nov 23, 2002

jigesh,

The devil truly is in the details. I started blowing up, ah building, power amps and audio gear more decades ago than I care to count. Real power is, well, real power. Any body can throw together a low power oscillator er I mean amplifier, but serious power requires a host of details that can be overlooked till it bites you. A cook book schematic can be misleading.

Well though out kits can be a joy for the avid DIYer. Other wise try the used market as Paul suggested. Rip open a well designed and built High power amp sometime just for a look see !

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Phat Phreddy

· #7 · Nov 23, 2002

As someone who has not yet taken the plunge but intends to, I have heard only very very good things about the AKSA (now Aspen Audio) kit build amp mentioned above... Check Harmonic Discords forums for up to the minute tech support and hand holding and serious devoted fanbase...

I hope to get some tiome and try thier 100w kits and if that works out will make 5 channels of amplification but possibly using 55w for the rears... The tubey sound of push pull topology amps with high power output is interesting enough to get me to try it...

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jigesh

Discussion Starter · #8 · Nov 23, 2002

Thanks a lot, Jamin and Phat for your response.

Jigesh

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