Getting Started

The Model 1 amplifier kit was designed to provide:

1.a universal tube amplifier suitable for everyday listening to the music from your PC or portable music source, or as a guitar amplifier easy to overdrive;

2.a headphone amplifier;

3.an amplifier for familiarizing with the sound of Single Ended (SE) configuration;

4.a platform for experimenting with different variations of an SE topology: pentode, triode or ultralinear operation, open loop or negative feedback, parallel tubes, etc.;

5.a significant value based on a high performance to price ratio.

The Model 1 is built on a two sided printed circuit board (PCB) and uses PCL82 (16A8) tubes which are specifically designed for audio applications. If you bought assembled kit rest assured that all amplifiers go through rigorous testing and extended burn-in before being shipped, so you are guaranteed to receive high quality product.

There are two versions of the Model 1 amplifier kit:

1.BASIC: this amplifier will output 2-2.5W per channel in pentode mode (depending on the output transformer selected) and comes with single stereo input and one pair of tubes. It is best suited as a headphone amplifier or PC amplifier. An upgrade kit is available for conversion to the FULL-PACK version.

2.FULL PACK: this version has maximum output power of 4-5W (depending on the output transformer), has two stereo inputs and two pairs of tubes (the two tubes per channel are connected in parallel). It is best suited for listening in small rooms and as an instrument amplifier.

Due to the relatively low power, the Model 1 works best with efficient speakers (SPL above 90dBm). As every other SE amplifier, the Model 1 has a low damping factor – it will perform best with single-driver Hi-Fi speakers or, alternatively, two-way speakers with simple crossovers.

The standard unit is delivered as an unassembled kit or tested and burned-in basic assembly. Vacuum tubes are delivered separately in original boxes, for maximum protection. The tubes need to be inserted and firmly seated in their sockets before the power is delivered to the unit.

The optimum sound reproduction will occur after 50-100 hours of operation. In normal use, upon power-up, the unit needs to warm up for about 30 minutes for maximum performance.

The Model 1 kit does not include output transformers or power supply, unless it is specifically listed that it does. Output transformers and power supply are separately sold.