Tube Preamp

[MarkE]

I just ordered another kit for the rack. This time its a tube preamp. This is an interesting design as it it a hybrid tube/solid state preamp that has a mixer control which allows you to blend/mix from all tube to all solid state and anything in between.

I plan on using it between on the mixer input while recording and between the mixer/computer when mastering. I'm hoping that it will give our productions a little more professional edge.

Now....if I could only find a tube compressor.....

[MarkE]

Okay, all built. I wrote the construction article too. BTW Im writing these to improve Home Studio Projects indexing

heres a link


http://www.homestudioprojects.com/paia-tube-head.htm

It has a really clean warm sound. Im guessing that I can put it between the mixing panel and computer to improve our mixes.

Mark

Hi Mark.

I took a proper look at the articles on the site this evening and am well impressed... they are clear, concise and have all the information you'd need to pick up a few tips along the way.

My Dad was heavily into building electronics, and he'd sit for hours in a spare bedroom he'd kitted out with all the 'bits and bobs' as he liked to call them. He'd work on anything - from TV's to hi-fi's, radio's and also a few music projects making me the odd stomp box or two (...I remember a circuit that he had for a 'struzz' box... marvellous effect which emulated the guitar work of Ernie Isley on 'Who's That Lady?'). I've had a go at some smaller projects, but have relied on buying the kit rather than building it (although with less satisfaction no doubt!).

What is the relative difference in cost in doing things this way? I've an idea running around about finishing my garage conversion and using this room as the main studio, but patching all the equipment up to the main desks in the bedroom where it is now, and communicating on video and over an audio link. Easy to say but sounds a big job.... G.

[MarkE]

Thanks Graham!
I've been into electronics most of my life...started at age 7, got serious about age 12, and was trained initially in the military. I spent my entire career as an electronics engineer, until recently that is. I did mostly digital design work, not audio.

I have built more kits than I can possibly remember. I built nearly the entire heathkit catalog including a 25" color TV. These days I work a different job but still have the itch to do this stuff. Thats why I started attacking all of the PAiA kits. They have a full analog synth which I will purchase when I can afford to.

Also, I love writing....always have.

About saving money, well, sometimes yes and sometimes no. THese kits are really for the enjoyment of building them. The tube preamp I just completed would probably cost a lot more for a commercially made one.
Lately I have been eyeballing building vintage guitar amps, and yes, you would save a bundle assembling one of those.

Your studio patch idea with the garage does sound like a big job. Also, plenty of money and an understanding wife :)