Tubes for my Ears

Getting there…

Well, the Millett Hybrid MAX that I’ve been working on is coming along. I ended up doing a few things to it tonight. First, I removed the tube sockets because I was going to fit new, hollowed out sockets and LEDs beneath the tubes. However, after some calculations I found that the LEDs connect right to the main 27V rail, and thusly the current limiting resistors have to sink a whole bunch of power. For the sake of not putting such a load on the power supply, simplicity, and a few other things I’ve opted not to illuminate the LEDs. (I would have needed something like 2W resistors.) So, new sockets will go back in place.

I also removed a bunch of the transistors. Because I want both sides to be balanced as closely as possible I ordered a lot of 100 of each of two types of transistors which can affect this. I’ll then match them and ensure that they are installed symmetrically.

Finally, I removed the 1/4″ headphone jack, because I decided I wanted a different type. I think I’m also going to put in a 3.5mm jack, just as soon as I have to place another order with Mouser.

I fitted a few of the new parts that came in, specifically some 1/8W resistors I had to purchase, because the exact required value of 1/4 watt weren’t available. 1/8W should be plenty for here, I think. I also fitted three more heatsinks.

Basically, as soon as my Mouser order comes in tomorrow I’ll have everything I need to almost completely finish the amp. Hopefully I can do so over the next couple of days. Sure, I won’t have the 3.5mm jack, but I can use an adapter for the time being.

I realized tonight that I’ll have to cut down the shaft on the really expensive, really nice Alps pot, but I think I can handle that.