Valve Amplifiers

Audio applications may be considered to offer better quality sound than transistor amplifiers. This book allows those with a limited knowledge of the field to understand both the theory and the practice of valve audio amplifier engineering design, such that they can analyze and modify circuits, and rebuild an amplifier. Constructional techniques are also provided so readers can build from scratch designs that actually work. The book takes the reader through each step of the process of design, starting with a brief review of electronic fundamentals relevant to valve amplifiers, simple stages, compound stages, linking stages together, and finally, complete designs. The Mullard 5-20, Quad II, and Williamson power amplifiers are analyzed as examples of complete systems, before showing a worked example of a simple but elegant 10W design. Pre-amplifier design is then investigated, particularly the problems of designing a successful RIAA disc stage. This then culminates in a design for a high-quality pre-amplifier, particularly suitable for use with either the 10W amplifier or Quad IIs. Safety and practical aspects are investigated and layout, component choice and construction techniques are also covered. Morgan Jones offers numerous practical hints and tips based on his own experience with real designs, thereby aiming to provide readers with the knowledge required to build new projects that actually work.