Scratch Building a Fender 5F1 Champ from Scrap Parts.....Part 2

[@Rod_Knee]

Doug, I'm so glad you make these videos. I'm working my way through them, and learning with each one. Thank you so much.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Rod. I hope the videos are helpful :)

[@macinfloydvolk]

Uncle Doug, you are so awesome!

[@AgentJayZ]

Replaced the ignition switch and key on my streetbike based track-only race bike. Chrome toggle switch on a hand-formed aluminum mini panel. Two options: On and Not On. Inspired by, and in tribute to Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

We are flattered to be part of your race bike, JZ. Best of luck with it :)

[@cchavez248]

Awwww, Rusty♥️ he just added that little comedic touch! Good thing the kitty squad was able to step in and take up the slack. Still, in all, these videos are a treasure of knowledge! Thank you for these, Uncle Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Agreed, Curtis. Thanks so much :)

[@AgentJayZ]

Excellent video. There's a company selling a kit to make this amp (I'm sure you know of it), but your video will show me how to make a much improved version for less money. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@UncleDoug]

+AgentJayZ You're welcome, JZ. I believe there are several kits available, which are great for first-time builders, but building from scratch is less expensive and an interesting challenge for those with more experience. Good luck with your project.

[@travishaynes1180]

Thanks for this video , even though I wasn't building an amp I watched , just to learn a little more and it gave me an ideas. My amp , a 15w solid state , was making all kinds of hum and horrible high pitched noise. I noticed you twisted some wires , all the alternate current leads I believe , together and ran them high instead of a long the bottom of the chassis. That gave me an idea and I tried the twisting on a few wires. Presto , it sounds %100 better. Not sure why but it also works on input and speaker wires. Anyway , thanks Uncle Doug !

[@UncleDoug]

The winding of AC-carrying wires is always a nice touch, Travis. Glad the video was helpful.

[@wtangodelta1715]

My god this is good. Off is trite, so are fender champ chasis...you are a master smart aleck and I know a former Hellraiser when I hear him...I've already had a good laugh today! Good to know you are there guys! Have a great day everyone!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, WTD. Rusty and I have calmed down considerably from our early days of biting ankles and chasing UPS trucks. That early foolishness no longer seems appropriate at our advanced ages :)

[@jamesduffy6108]

I have absolutely no comprehension of the mysteries of electronic circuitry, but I thoroughly enjoyed that!

[@UncleDoug]

I'm glad you enjoyed it, James :)

[@eosdelb]

Im glad I watched and feel like I might learn something if I aint careful. You put it in ways I can understand it. Thanks, Merry Christmas.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Grady. I hope you learned a lot :)) Merry Christmas to you, too.

[@terrafirma91]

This was a fascinating watch. In order to accomplish this task one must have an extensive background in electronics. This was a very well made little amp.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, TF. With some study and practice, I'll bet you could make one too. Perhaps you could start off with an amp kit and learn the basics. It's a very interesting and rewarding hobby.

[@terrafirma91]

Uncle Doug That sounds like a great idea. I recall a company called Heathkit years ago. They sold many kits of various appliances, and some were rather good. I think I'll take your advice. You sure seem to make it look easy, though.

[@UncleDoug]

Take a look at the kits offered by Weber: taweber.powweb.com/store/kits.htm They are of good quality and would be an excellent learning experience. Good luck.

[@terrafirma91]

Uncle Doug Thanks for sending the link, Doug. I'll get on this for sure. At my current age a new learning experience would definitely be an "experience". But it would be well worth it.

[@fedeprimiterra1204]

Hi Uncle Doug!! I´m looking forward to learn about electronic just to understand and be able to build up my own amps and stuff.....Your videos are so helpful and clear. Thanks for dedicate the time to register this material. Greetings from Argentina

[@jejwood]

I am an electrical engineer become chiropractor, and amateur musician all along. You have inspired me to get back to my roots; I'm going to attempt an amplifier design after watching many of these videos. Looks like a lot of fun!

[@UncleDoug]

That's great to hear, JW. Best of luck with your rekindled interest in electronics.....may all your projects be successful :)

[@jackphillips6695]

Thanks you have inspired me to make my on guitar amp.

[@RuRedy4MuZak]

I found the Scratch Built Fender Amp very entertaining and educational. I'm not in the least bid electronic, but found myself biting at the bit to try! Great job and very nice sounding.

[@UncleDoug]

Ken Henry Thanks, Ken. Glad you liked it :) Please consider building your own some day.

[@CoquiAudio]

I don' see as a mess that is a beautiful place to enjoy building stuff ^_^

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Juan. Rusty and I really appreciate your kind words. I guess a messy workshop just shows that lots of work has been going on :)

[@CoquiAudio]

me too bro every time I work on my solid state amplifier build I made a lot mess but I love it ^_^ lol

[@FuzzlordEffects]

Thank you Uncle Doug fortaking the time to create another great set of videos! Your work is very much appreciated (: ~Jason

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Jason :)

[@UncleDoug]

Reply to Not Me: Part of learning any new skill, NM, is the ability to think and work with increasing independence....taking responsibility for your own learning. If you wanted to learn how to play golf, would you be better off having someone play 300 holes of golf while you watched.....or having someone explain the basics of golf and then allowing you to practice, learn, and develop your own skills over time. The first method is utterly passive and appealing because it requires no effort. The second method requires participation, focus, personal responsibility, and hard work. As a long-time teacher, I can tell you that only one method works.....and it's not the first one. P.S. Your reply would work if you simply altered your privacy settings to allow people to respond to your comments.

[@UncleDoug]

I am very sorry to hear of your failing health, NM. Have you considered buying an amp kit to build? You will receive all the necessary parts, excellent instructions, and tech support if you need it. The Weber kits are particularly good. Best of luck to you.

[@SSPITTSSPACE]

Uncle Doug help

[@guitardavidc]

Uncle Doug, love your videos!! When you showed the remnants of that Precision signal generator you brought me all the way back to 1968-1972. We used that exact signal generator in my Radio-TV shop classes at Wm. E. Grady Voc-Tech HS. You’d think by now Rusty would have gotten used to GLORIA by now!! Lol Thanks for such excellent info...👍

[@LUCKYB.]

Dr Doug .. I am glad to find this learning Exp in watching you Build this piece fender champ aint got anything on you .. I have found the Piece I am interested in .How do I contact you about recreating this piece for Purchase ? With a 10 " Jensen . I know nothing of electronics . please let me know thankYou .

[@N6MKC]

I'll be damned...I built one of these from scratch about a year ago, my first tube amp build (I don't play guitar, but my brother was going to take lessons and wanted a small amp) but the thing was plagued with an annoying 60hz hum I couldn't track down. I was routing and re-routing filament wires, even tried shielding them. The fix was your two resistors to ground trick. Thanks!

[@UncleDoug]

Yes, the old "virtual center tap" trick is a great hum reducer. We're glad it solved your problem.

[@ericbusa]

Thanks great vid on negative feedback etc

[@ExStaticBass]

That's pretty slick man. I would have never thought of rigging a negative bias that way. Thanks for the insight.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, ESB.....glad you liked it :)

[@vikitheviki]

On/Not on! I liked that :)

[@UncleDoug]

Most people missed it, I guess, Kax. Glad you noticed :)

[@marzsit9833]

i also like how not on is up and on is down :)

[@JasonTHutchinson]

@@UncleDoug just making sure we're awake?

[@robb4545]

Those variable resistors for the feedback and cathode resistor is just an awesome idea. Well done

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Robb.

[@elams1894]

Thanks for the videos and great commentary. Normally I'm not of fan of commentary but yours is informative and clear. I look forward to checking out some of your other vids.. Thanks Uncle Doug.. subbed!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Elams, and thanks for the kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed this video and thank you for subscribing :)

[@muttamps]

You should start your own merch line with t-shirts that say "I learned everything I know about tube amps from Uncle Doug." But seriously, you've been a big help as I've knocked together amps from old parts over the last couple of years, so thank you and keep up the great and informative work!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Mutt. If my partner had his way, the shirts would read "I learned everything I know about tube amps from Rusty the Wonder Dog" :) Thanks for watching.....and for your kind words. ^. .^

[@insomniacgarage5070]

I realize the comments are ages old, but a T-shirt like that would be very cool!

[@UncleDoug]

Sandy Shuman, your comment came without a "Reply" capability, so I'll answer it up here and hope you see it. This issue was brought up by a viewer, who recommended that the NFB loop need not be switchable, but simply connected to the 8 ohm output tap of the OPT. The problem with "switchability" is that it alters the amount of NFB, rather than simply applying it equally to either output.

[@ymirthecat7852]

Uncle Doug

[@royrowho4442]

Uncle Doug hey uncle Doug I'm 48 got int the trades as a broom pusher for an Electrical shop in Downey Ca. At the age of moms saying get a job or stay in school at the age of 15 Long story short quit school there was sum ditching involved too this career that was chosen for me was a blessing . Sooo it wasent till the latter part of my career that politics split our electrical shop in halph so always yearning for electronics I went that way. Is there a way I can get ahold a yah. I purchased a whole lot of tubes Heathkit CB units marine also and tons of personal board designs from a Japanese man that retired from skunkworks in 69 so I realized not the value but the history with tons a top grade military and top a the line consumer manufacturers tubes resistors wax caps and on and on Looked on ur KZbin videos n really can't find a way to contact u.can you please if u look at ur comments reach out for a father son conversation. To help me more of sum of the things I aquired for givin up 6 of my 1887 uncirculated silver dollar coins Take in mind this guy had a big lunch box and had aquired his two garages full of military grade electronics stuff thru his career so My first ever shakin at the teeth saying Wat would it cost for everything Paintings n cool American Japanese historical things U can reach me at rlrojo @mail.com B was Ruth ur while or I'll pay for ur knowledge try ray

[@patprop74]

This is a perfect example of where modern electronics fail, With a little imagination and lots of know-how, you went from a pile of bits to a very nice sound amp! I know nothing of vintage tube point to point electronics, however, your wiring job is so clean and well-executed It makes me almost think, even I could stand a chance of making one.

[@UncleDoug]

I think you could, too, Pat. Study the videos, buy some components, and give it a try.

[@themrtomward]

Congratulations to you Uncle Doug.You may be happy to know that I built a 5f1 amp out of a Hammond ao39 chassis,power transformer and tubes.I drilled a hole for a 6v6gt and followed your videos and a 5f1 schematic and I am happy to say "IT PLAYS" and you are awesome...DUDE! Thank you for teaching us.

[@UncleDoug]

+Tom Ward You're welcome, Tom. Congratulations to you on your successful amp build :)

[@giulioluzzardi7632]

Thanks for the clear and concise description of this build, it gives me a bit more confidence knowing what to expect when I build my very own amp.Great stuff!

[@UncleDoug]

Glad you liked it, Giulio. Same to you :)

[@giulioluzzardi7632]

​​@@UncleDougJust a few more visits to the re-cycling yard and my 1st amp will be ready. I actually found a rusted chassis from a very old Deluxe amp , had to replace most of the parts and learned via Trial and error and sweat how to get a noise out of it. It's basically a Radio without the reciever and I wired the cable straight to the CTS volume pot (no tone yet). Have to thank you cos a year ago I knew how to put circuits together but never really knew Why they worked, thanks again.

[@allsafe1]

Hi Doug , I had a bit of back and fourth with you some time ago , your videos have inspired me, I did the Vox v15 and then I wanted to make one from scratch . I made the chassis soldering the galvanized sheet after bending and the cab is a wine box and some old wood i had lying about . Long story short without you and your kind and patient explanation I would have just never done this . I have a bit of mains hum but I know why this is and I can live with it . Again you are the man and you have a special gift when it comes to teaching you just seem to know what the questions will be and how good it feels to know very little and have things explained in a simple yet detailed way and the light turns on . Respect . Nikk

[@allsafe1]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/f6mWfWSJdrdolbs Sorry about the sound quality

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much for your very nice comments, Nik. I'm really glad that the videos were helpful and your project turned out so well. Please keep up the good work :)

[@muhammadsteinberg]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I built one of these about 2yrs ago. Put it away and forgot about it. Got tired of playing violin and decided to dust off my guitar equipment. An idea popped in my head to swap out the RCA output plug for a 1/4" jack setup. For some reason my brain took a vacation and I couldn't figure out wiring. Watching you talk about your impedance switching mod and showing the schematic....DING!!!...The light came back on! Excellent job on the amp!!!...After looking at yours I might go back and do some housekeeping...I feel guilty after seeing your tidy work...

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, MS. I'm glad the video rekindled your enthusiasm for your project. Thanks !!

[@DVRproductions52]

Ah, I see that now! Don't know how I overlooked that, it's even in the AB schematic. Thanks again Mr. Doug!!!

[@UncleDoug]

+Dean Rohleder You're welcome, Dean.

[@TheTrackingstation]

You do great work and explain things very well. I've been building guitars, amplifiers, and recording stuff for almost 60 years and yet I learn things from each one of your projects and presentations. I'm envious of your great work habits. Best wishes.

[@UncleDoug]

TheTrackingstation Thanks so much for your very kind words, TT. Coming from someone with your extensive experience, this is very high praise and I sincerely appreciate it. I'm glad the videos are helpful. Thanks for watching :)

[@davidolenick2280]

I knew a tech who told me this. He charged $100ea to do this...He said that transformers are not perfect. That you should measure the outputs on the transformers, For example. If you have an output of 5 volts on one and 6 volts on the other you should attach a pot to the 6 vol and decrease it to 5,. he call it phasing the tubes. I heard the difference. It was amazing. You are truly a Genius. I envy you so much. Thanks for the fun : )

[@UncleDoug]

+David Olenick You're welcome, David. I'm glad you enjoyed the video :)

[@BravoColl]

Haha, Not On is absolutely brilliant! I may have to steal that Doug!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, BC. Don't forget our royalty of 5 dog biscuits for each use of the phrase ;)

[@Cavemannspace]

Good ol' Rusty. He's such a good sport to help out.

[@UncleDoug]

I'd be lost without him, CS.

[@cassvirgillo3395]

Hey Uncle Doug & Family, I hope you are all doing good. Always the best in tube amp videos, thankyou for your time, effort & years of experience which you so kindly share. Don't really do holidays any more, but, would like to wish you and yours all the best, every happiness, and, a Happy Year End!. Take care, be good, Cass.

[@UncleDoug]

+Cass Virgillo Greetings, Cass. The whole gang here at Uncle Doug's madhouse and menagerie sincerely appreciate your kind comments and holiday good wishes. We all hope you have a great holiday season and a happy, tube-ampalicious new year :)

[@SuperKingslaw]

Another great little video series!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Robert :)

[@dr.strangevelo6031]

This is great. I really appreciate your clear descriptions of signal flow. Thank you.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Dr. S. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I have posted almost 90 other videos which may also be of interest....:))

[@davea.8499]

I am get all motivated to try building one of these when I watch this video.

[@UncleDoug]

Give it a try, HA. It's a great hobby :)

[@congithu5026]

Very inspiring. I'm preparing a similar project. Using 5F1 schematic but adding some extra features like bass, mid, treble control, line-out, master volume control and etc..

[@UncleDoug]

+Congi Thu Thanks, CT. I'm glad the video was helpful. Best of luck with your 5F1 project. Please let us know how it turns out :)

[@congithu5026]

Planning stage. I would like show you the modified schematic when It's ready.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome to post it on my Facebook page: Uncle Doug's Vintage Amps.

[@congithu5026]

Thanks! I became your fan!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome....glad you joined our YT family :)

[@57Techboy]

Thank you for your insights and patience, I always learn something while watching your videos. Cheers, Perry.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Perry. That's good to hear :)

[@3MonkeysGarage]

Well, Jack can probably relax now. I have made it to the video you referred me to. And, it dawned on me that a few years ago I restocked my 1/2 watt resistors, and do have some other new parts in my parts boxes. So, took the plunge and ordered up some transformers and a few other bits. I had some cabinets built and stored too, but I am going to go in a different direction now after watching many of your scratch builds and vintage amp repairs. Maybe a SILVERTONE MODEL 1391 style, with a bit of my own flavor. You are an inspiration. Look out for my upcoming house fire video.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, AZ. Good luck with your project.

[@locustvalleystring]

Thanks for your vids. I added the two 100 ohm resistors to ground from the filament leads on my 1956 Ampeg Guitaramp. HUGE difference in background noise. I also found a single green and white wire coiled under the power transformer that appears to have never been connected to anything. I ran that to ground and the noise dropped FARTHER. Nice and quiet amp now.

[@UncleDoug]

Nice work, Larry. Best of luck with the amp and future projects.

[@davidtaylor6124]

Very enjoyable. No wonder we now have a flood of small amps that are cheaper than the equivalent kits now we can see just how simple a tube amp can be.

[@UncleDoug]

Good parts are still expensive, David, but high quality vintage parts can be harvested from dirt cheap sources.

[@jcmcclain57]

Great series on what to do with the bits and pieces that are laying around. You really did great job on this project! I left off last night with the completion of the cabinet. I watched the cabinet build and I thought about how cool it would have been to build a cabinet along the lines of an Ampeg B-15 Flip-Top for this project. This amplifier would be perfect to emulate that style. I was watching this when you replied to me last night about my Hiwatt. I'll be opening it up in a few hours and thanks to you I have a good understanding of both the technology of the amplifier and a good plan laid out. Thanks and all the best!

[@UncleDoug]

jcmcclain57 You're welcome, JC. It's great to hear that the videos are helpful. Best of luck with your Ampeg B-15 project.....let us know how it turns out :)

[@graxjpg]

That thing is killer!!

[@UncleDoug]

Amen, Grant.....especially considering the parts it was built from :)

[@nghtdrgon]

I've been wanting to build a tube amp for years but never have any money to do so I feel like I can salvage my parts now (your video on power transformers was the greatest thing since sliced bread) THANK YOU ROCK ON DOUG YOUR THE MAN!!

[@barneycarparts]

I have returned after 2 years of rukus to find this video. The NFB is a delight. I have a Kustom Defender 5H with a EL84 instead of my fave 6V6 any way I had to find a Russian site and translate it to get all the mods Tone stack and Master vol) . The one thing missing was the NFB. Turns out the Defender 22K to the second section 12AX7 Cathode made it silent there is no joy in Mudville. So, I put a 500K in series with the 22K and the vol was still low so I think a 1 Meg pot + a 100K might do it. . I enjoy your videos and have learned so much. Thank you for all you do. Hope you are well.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Barney. Yes, we are all doing quite well indeed. Thanks !!

[@barneycarparts]

@@UncleDoug LOL if you want to have a chuckle, here is the Russian site for the Kustom Defender 5H. The translation is not so good. :) forum.guitarplayer.ru/index.php?topic=158288.30

[@barneycarparts]

Effectively they are saying for the Kustom Defender 5H, is; remove R3 the 0 zero ohm resistor and insert the Fender tone stack into the two empty holes. . Treb lead to the top hole, Mid lead out to the bottom hole and ground to ground. This bypasses the stock PCB tone circuit. Fender tone stack (Bass 250K pot treb 1Meg pot mid pot 200k, Bass cap .047Uf, Mid .022uf, Treb .220nf + 68k joined lead out to solder point connection. (treb cap-resistor in parallel. ). Also remove R15, R16, C15 (above the stock vol pot) .............(it's the stock tone circuit) ................................................................ Then for the Master Volume to the EL84 power tube, remove R4, R16 and R17 (voltage divider) and replace with a 1 meg pot (voltage divider) Wiper wired to top of R4, lug 1 to top of R17 hole, and lug 3 to top of R16 hole ( ground)... The amp is a boutique niche that only 1% of guitar players will appreciate , especially 1920-1950s blues fans. Its a screaming Bearcat when pushed, Its a nice tinder box at low vols. This Amp can be had for $89 on eBay. It's a great learning platform. I would like to calc the math on all the circuits. Thanks uncle Doug, I think you have all the videos for me to calculate the math.

[@UncleDoug]

Other than the snazzy Russian babes, the site was Greek to me, Barney. Thanks for the translation and good luck with your calculations :)

[@twangzilla]

Great video as always. Love to see the cab construction and tolexing video as well!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Kevin. I will head over to Home Depot in a day or two to select some nice pine boards. Happy Holidays !!

[@cassvirgillo3395]

Hi Uncle Doug & Rusty, He sure seems like a good 'ol boy, I mean the dog, and, you to Uncle. I am so glad I found your channel, a wealth of information. It's on my list to scratch build a tube amp that rocks. I built a current limiter as per your video and it worked perfect. All I could get for now was a 250W heat lamp with a resistance of 5.0 ohms. I shorted through a $20.00 DVM and it still works perfect, thankyou. I am subscribed and check all the tutorials I can. Take care, be good, C.

[@UncleDoug]

Cass Virgillo Greetings, Cass. It sounds like you are making good progress on your way to building your own amp. Thanks for watching and subscribing, and best of luck with your projects.

[@cincinattiblues]

Thanks Uncle Doug for all the great tutorials, they're really helpful. And love your dog Rusty, funny how he always slips away when there's works to be done LOL

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, TT.....glad to hear that the videos are helpful. Yes, Rusty is much like having a teenager around the house.....disappearing whenever there's work to be done (as you said) :)

[@hecklarandkoch]

Very cool, wish I had cool junk to convert like that

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks H&K.....you have to admit it's a creative way to clean up the workshop :))

[@hecklarandkoch]

Very, I could imagine the endless projects you could have laying around in the junk pile.

[@johnmcclinton9124]

Nice tip. Making the virtual center tap I would have never thought of. Nrgstive feedback is common on amps. It puts a negative or opposite of the sound wave distortion. Thus it cuts the the distorted part of the wave more because it is at the top of the signal. Adding tone controls is a no brainer. I would sdd those. All in all, good job!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, John :)

[@KleyDeJong]

Fantastic! I'm putting together a 5F2A Tweed Princeton and this was very helpful. Some cool mod ideas that I will explore. Thanks!

[@UncleDoug]

+Kley De Jong You're welcome, Kley. Best of luck with your project.

[@ofthetree]

Very helpful video for me. Thank you.

[@UncleDoug]

We're glad to hear it, OT.

[@edwardlagno2334]

Hi Uncle Doug, good stuff, home grown. It could be a Proto type or even a Master Seargent himself that had fun all day long at work. and saved the day for good friends and buddies who did the same in return. Love the stuff... The Old timer himself Eddie.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Eddie :)

[@MichaelScottPerkins]

I have never built an amp before, and I am going to start with this exact design! I've had lots of people tell me that it is a great idea to start with a Fender 5F1 Champ for a first amp, because it has so few variables. One thing that I see being a problem is that you used parts that you found, and I will need to order new parts. I don't have the experience yet to sort out which power transformer, output transformer, etc... but I hope the ol' internet can help me with that. I love the NFB loop dial. That is so clever. Also, the variable bias resistor that you can dial in with a screw. I don't know if those things are easily available, but I'm gonna try. Being so new, it is also hard to find a reliable schematic to go off of. There are literally dozens and dozens of Champ schematics out there, but I can't tell just by looking at them if they are accurate or off, and if they are off... off in what way, and by how much. Ha ha ha. Oh well... gotta start somewhere. Thanks for the videos! You should DEF. have a patreon page or sell your amps or something. I'd def. contribute or buy one of your refurbs, if for nothing else, just to say thanks!

[@UncleDoug]

Greetings, Michael, and thanks for all the nice comments. I do have a Patreon page and accept PayPal donations to account [e-mail]. The schematic you are looking for is here: i0.wp.com/myfenderchamp.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/champ_5f1-schematic.png You can order your parts from Antique Electronic Supply and your transformers from Amp Parts Direct: shop.amppartsdirect.com/main.sc They offer transformer sets for the 5F1 Champ. Good luck.

[@miraflynn8935]

I just built a 5F1 with a StewMac kit. It’s bog standard, and much less cool looking than this one. But it has every piece you need, and amazing instructions. If you want to go that route, I’d recommend the StewMac kit.

[@bowsandslingshots]

I made the same! thanks, I took lots of references from your videos! I made it under 30 dollars, I found the power transformer in a Junk Yard in perfect conditions and some components from a vintage stereo console! greetings from Chihuahua, Mexico!

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, HR. Congratulations on a successful build at a very reasonable price. Who says that amp building has to be an expensive hobby ???

[@bowsandslingshots]

Exactly!! it's my first amp, and I will try to make a little cabinet for it, and also a little overdrive pedal.

[@UncleDoug]

I can tell that you are excited about this successful project, Heriberto, and you should be. When completed, please post photos of it on my Facebook page: Uncle Doug's Vintage Amps. We would love to see it.

[@bowsandslingshots]

Uncle Doug Yes, I am really excited! Absolutely​, I will post it! thanks for your videos, they are incredibly useful!

[@UncleDoug]

Hearing from successful, enthusiastic viewers, like you, makes it all worthwhile, Heriberto.

[@littlejon64]

I can't believe that you made that from scrap parts amazing Really cool I have great respect for you and what you do and show people Excellent work

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, LJ. I'm glad you are enjoying the videos :)

[@patricecharpentier992]

many thanks Uncle Doug for this video, wich was very informative, again ;-) I'm restauring a stereo amplifier from the 1960's, and was wondering why the input transformer has 2 resistors wired on the 6.3V plots...thanks very much for revealing this "virtual center-tap" trick ! thanks to your videos, I'm knowing what I'm doing, instead of simply changing parts, and making an old electronic running. best regards to you, and a hug to Rusty

[@UncleDoug]

+Patrice CHARPENTIER You're welcome, Patrice. We're glad the video was helpful. Best of luck with your project :)

[@m0ck0]

how awesome. im 6 years late to the video AND ITS STILL CHRISTMAS SEASON!

[@UncleDoug]

It's always Christmas on Uncle Doug's Channel, Rocko :)

[@nelsondejesus2796]

Hey Uncle Doug, that's what my dinner table looks like after, during, and (EMBARRASSED) yes before I replaced a simple piece of any works, I believe it's a sign of locating what you need, when you need it,or so I tell em!! LOL

[@UncleDoug]

Greetings, Nelson. If your dinner table is anything like my workshop (in the video) then you must be losing weight......because you can't find your dinner :))

[@JCHaywire]

After my Tweed Deluxe from a Thomas organ chassis project, this shall be #2. I have a cute little Yamaha "Budokan" combo cab with speaker that I ripped the el-crap-o amp circuit out of. I see a "Budokan No Chanpu" amp in my future. Thanks for the tutorial; your stuff is slowly percolating into my somewhat challenged brain.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, JC. Your next project sounds both interesting and well-named. Best of luck with it !!! :)

[@onemancarnage]

Clear and concise. I believe that's correct. my new favorite channel.!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Bryan. That is exactly what Rusty and I want each of our videos to be. Welcome aboard !!

[@griffgriffiths9982]

excellent video, thank you.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Griff.

[@UKPete007]

Great video, thanks!.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Pete. Glad you liked it :)

[@TheF86Sabre]

Rusty is far too cool for school! I like the way he cuts and runs when it's time to clean up...no steak for you Rusty!

[@UncleDoug]

It's like having a teenager around the house.....huge appetite....not much help with chores, but he's still a lovable rascal.

[@djbigleg3228]

great remake with a twist that improves it massively the negative feedback loop is a great addition great post doug regards jamie..,.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jamie.

[@dwightjt]

I just watched this Video again can't Get tired of it Again nicely done You are a very fine teacher. You are Probably becoming None around the world Of those who like Electronics projects I still like your funny Sarcasm. Dwight.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Dwight :)

[@dwightjt]

@@UncleDoug Your Welcome Uncle Doug. Dani Sonic. If you put out anymore vids I'll Be watching. I can not afford any financial support but I can promote and share. I have allot of bills to Pay. Thank you for who You are. You make the world a little easier. We need more like you Keep sharing we will Thank you for it in one way or another Your friend. Dwight Allenpark,mi.

[@UncleDoug]

@@dwightjt Thanks for your nice comments, Dwight.

[@chipsterb4946]

The virtual center tap on the heaters is a simple yet very effective improvement. Note that original Fenders from this era used the chassis as one side of the heater circuit. Low cost manufacturing but ouch! Mixing all kinds of grounds with the heater circuits. Another note: power tubes need 18 gauge wire for heaters because of the current. However, preamp tubes don’t draw anywhere near as much current. That means you can use 22 gauge shielded cable for preamp tube heaters. I know that this is sacrilege for many, but it is solid theoretically and works in practice.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your helpful input, Chip.

[@MorganEarlJones]

Heh, thanks for that annotation, that bit about the negative feedback going to the 6v6 almost made me question everything I know.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Morgan. Without any verbal-editing capability, I have to rely on notes to make corrections. I apologize for any initial confusion.

[@MorganEarlJones]

A bit of a related question: On both the Leslie 122 and 147 amplifiers, the plates of the 6550s are linked back to the grid with 56k resistors and coupled with 100pf/1000v capacitors. Do you think these may be negative feedback loops?

[@UncleDoug]

I looked at a schematic and must agree that it does appear to function as a NFB loop. This circuit would inject a fairly high frequency (the portion of the signal that can pass through the 100pf) out-of-phase signal back to the grid, which would neutralize some of the high frequency portion of the incoming signal. The overall effect would be to reduce shrillness perhaps (?).

[@russianvideovlogguy]

I remember watching this years ago thinking - I could build one! I built one from scratch - it is rusty as hell (which is kind of interesting if you think about about it - like a tribute or homage) because I used steel for the chassis - I did not realize until later that I should have used aluminum - I am so dumb - but the amp is a beast and could probably survive an atomic blast - plus the rust gives it this incredible vintage look - I just need to take up smoking so I can't get those kickass cigarette burns on the chassis

[@UncleDoug]

You could hire Keith Richards to provide the cigarette burns, AW. We're glad the video was helpful :)

[@djfrank59]

Hi Doug! Interesting little modifications! The variable negative feedback is an excellent idea...I've never seen this commonly on commercially made amps, but it's valuable for many reasons! Creating the virtual center tap is a very wise choice here...I've done this to many amps over the years...many of the amps that I've worked on which had no CT on the PT greatly benefited the addition of the resistors! I had one issue where no matter what I did, I couldn't get rid of the AC heater hum. Well, after running it by a few seasoned senior techs, I was given a hand-drawn schematic for the modification...Been using it ever since! Keep the good videos coming! PS: I see Rusty tends to run for the hills when it's shop-cleanup time :)

[@UncleDoug]

It's great to hear from you, Frank. I'm glad you liked the video and the modifications. Rusty and I send you our best wishes for a great Christmas season !!!

[@Radio478]

Nice project 👌

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, RN.

[@jasonong7049]

Sounding was great uncle doug..sound magical!!!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Jason :)

[@Valerifon1]

Your videos are outstanding and greatly appreciated! All the best - Luther

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Luther :)

[@jmv668]

Great job! Love. Your videos🙂, is so funny when you dogs runs in the end LOL

[@wtangodelta1715]

P.S. been meaning to tell you that your handmade pieces are beautifully artistic. Outstanding work even as non-functioning installations...but function they do. I don't know for sure, but I suspect this is what shinola looks like...can never get a clear answer from anybody on that one so I am forced to make a call... shinola. Later on Uncle Doug...

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, WTD. Shinola it is !! :)

[@eduf93]

Great explanation!

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Ed :)

[@gingercat777]

Having a switchable off NFB option works fine, just gives you extra gain and drive. My last build I made the V1 cathode bypass cap switchable, which makes for usable clean tone with the little bugger flat out.

[@UncleDoug]

Greetings, Squizzy, and thanks for the good suggestion. I may try that in a future chassis-construction project. I really appreciate your interest and input.

[@1BrianFantana1]

Thanks so much for this series uncle doug!!! I have gone from knowing not a thing about how these amps work to almost knowing how to build one, the electronics still confuse me a bit because I know nothing about them, especially the schematics that's where it loses me the most but the cabinet building I can do as I am a joiner/cabinet maker myself and will be constructing my first guitar speaker cabinet tomorrow. I will be looking more into the amp building side of things and reading a few books and I might just give It a go to see what I can come up with! Thanks again these videos are incredibly informative!!

[@UncleDoug]

You're quite welcome, Brian. We're glad the videos are helpful. Best of luck with your cabinet project and all subsequent projects :)

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Thomas. I'm glad you like the scratch-built Champ. Please send me a private message and we can discuss it.

[@UncleDoug]

It sounds like you have quite a nice collection of vintage amps, Thomas, and I am pleased that you like the scratch-built Champ. If you'd like to discuss a purchase, please contact me by Private Message. Thanks again for your interest and input :)

[@alphabeets]

Really beautiful work. It's cool to rummage around in a bucket of old parts and make something of real use out of it all. Very cool brother!

[@UncleDoug]

+alphabeets Thanks, AB :)

[@DaddyWarbucksunlimited]

Great job

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks, Freddy :)

[@bdctube]

Doug, I'm in the ordering and thinking out stage of my 5F1 build. Something I've been told to do in the past, is wire up the output transformer before fastening it to the chassis, and move it around to find the quietest spot. I think what you did on your 5F1 was just keep it as far away from the PT as possible. I'm sourcing my own parts, but I notice a different orientation of transformers on so many of these builds. I have built 5 Amps over the years and my strategy up until I managed to build a noisy amp was to staddle the power tubes close with the OT (got that advice somewhere), and make sure OT and PT don't face the same direction. In the noisy amp I ended up relocating the OT, but yielded only minor improvement. The only amp I've built with a gain control, and most of it isn't usable, after gain reduction mods. The upside is that I managed to get a very nice chimey clean sound on that amp. I digress. Back to the Champ! I'm planning on running a 99ma 4h choke in series with the 10k resister. I would value your thoughts on choke and OT placements for the 5F1 in particular, and maybe otherwise in PP amps. Thanks........

[@UncleDoug]

I too have heard that the OPT and PT orientation should be perpendicular, Jeff, and I tend to locate my preamp tube(s) as far as possible from the power supply. Since the choke is part of the power supply, I would assume that it should be separated from the OPT and oriented perpendicular to the PT. Other than those simple rules, most of my attention is dedicated to proper wiring and grounding.

[@bdctube]

Thanks Doug, I copy that, and will think of the choke as part of the power supply and do accordingly. I need to find some good photos of Champ models with chokes and see what fender did. I bought those Christmas tree bits. Was previously using wood forstner type bits from HF.. Worked well on aluminum, but the Champ chassis is steel.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Jeff. Best of luck.

[@VintageWoodWorkshop]

Great build! I'll have to try the virtual center tap on a Kalamazoo Model 1 I have that has some real annoying hum that I haven't been able to sort out as of yet. Thanks for the clear explanation.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, FH. I hope the virtual center tap trick works for you. Best of luck :)

[@renemichelnunes]

It's a very nice and hot sound indeed, congrats and thanks to share this beauty

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Rene. Please also watch the videos in which I build a cabinet for the little jewel. In addition, I am now working on a video showing how to cover the cabinet with material (like Tolex). It should be posted soon. Stay tuned :)))

[@BlackBalloonGraz]

Thanks for the video. I have a pkexi style preamp with ac15 power amp and no negative feedback.. I will try to implement it, if i find i nice setting i can make it permanent. But i guess for cleans its good to have no nf, more bass more highs.. And for overdrive more nf, to tighten the sound. I will try.. My amp sounds a bit muddy, this will help i guess. Contrary to what people say nf enhances touch response snd dynamics. I tried it in my 5e3.. Much better with NF... Can go from clean to dirt just by pick attack.. Your way is perfect for tuning an amp. Thanks alot. Ine needs to listen in real time. If you solder and start amp again you forgot what it sounded before. Direct comparision is so valuable!! Nfb pot, presence and resonance control would be max fine tuning.. Do many ideas thanks

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks for your comments and input, Joe.

[@AnalogOpher]

You're the greatest thing since the Navy published NEETs.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks :) High praise indeed, AO. For those unfamiliar with the term, NEETS stands for Navy Electricity and Electronics Training Series which is an exhaustive manual on all aspects of electronics theory and practice.

[@billdyke9745]

A work of art. Shame to hide it in a box. I liked the lower value nf. Even though I'm a Fender player, (and hate humbuckers), I like clean, mid-rangy amps. An inexpensive, worthwhile addition. And a remarkably simple circuit. Most edifying, sir.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Bill.

[@paulstubbs7678]

I was going to make a 6V6GT amp, it's buried in the 'get to it one day' pile, yours has kind of re-sparked my interest. The main difference for me is mine is just for music playback, no guitar at all. I've got most of the parts, just need the drive to do it.

[@UncleDoug]

Let's hope you get the energy to tackle the project, Paul.

[@ollikivela2804]

Hi Uncle Doug! Inspired by your Champ videos I decided to build a 5e1 clone myself. As it was my first full tube project I wanted to built it into a bigger chassis than the original. That made also possible to use bigger transformers so I used KT66 tube. I added also a bias potentiometer so I could use 6V6 with it too. It sounds amazing. Best clean tone I've had.

[@UncleDoug]

Olli Kivelä Wow, Olli....Congratulations on a great first-time amp-building project :) Your modifications make good sense and the fact it works so well is evidence of your skill. Keep us posted on your next project(s).

[@rikeverglade6429]

Great video. Re: NFB. Your resource was the only one that I found that was helpful to me... I've got my Champ running the way I want it. Thank you.

[@UncleDoug]

You're welcome, Rik. We try to be practical rather than purely theoretical. If you haven't already subscribed, please do so. We've posted almost 150 videos similar in style to this one.

[@GreatBowlsAfire]

thanks Uncle Doug~ extremely inspiring thinking.. and your guitar sounded GREAT! rock on~

[@UncleDoug]

Glad to hear it, GB. Thanks !!

[@jimviau327]

Your shop looks like mine on a Friday morning.

[@UncleDoug]

It's a real disaster during a big project. Periodically I have to stop and clean it all up, just so I can find anything I need.

[@FreerunMediaService]

Realy nice job! Simple schematics and a nice sounding amp.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, FMS. I'm glad you liked the video and the amp :)

[@ARSciandra]

Great video. Really like what you're doing here. The variable biasing resistor on the output tube is a nice idea.

[@UncleDoug]

Thanks so much, Tony. Glad you liked it :)

[@joseislanio8910]

Great as always! In the last couple days I made kind of a champ, but mostly based in the 5c1 schematic, with penthode preamp and no feedback resistor. The penthode in the case is an ef184. Also made a tone control. The output transformer was a 7,5 volt line transformer that I reconfigured for single ended use. Overall, it costed me about nothing, and sounds great

[@UncleDoug]

Congratulations on a successful build, Jose.

[@gerardcousineau3200]

Uncle Doug did you realize that you had more high at 10K…I wish you did put it full volume at 10K to hear the high notes how they sound ! :) Again thank you and Rusty for the beautiful and educational video ! Keep on the good work ! :)

[@UncleDoug]

+gerard cousineau I wish I had also, Gerard. You're welcome. Thanks so much for the very kind words :)

[@sbattyyy]

Interesting about dopping your wires down to the tube sockets rather than running them low in the chassis. I'm taking notes.

[@UncleDoug]

It's an old trick I learned from working on amps, and from trial and error. Arching the filament wires downward to the tube sockets seems to reduce hum. I'm glad you enjoyed the video :)

[@DAhern-sp9ji]

Nice videos. All your videos are well done. You can connect the NFB resistor to the 8ohm tap, and let the speaker switch between 4 & 8. There is no requirement that the NFB go to the same tap where the speaker load is. the NFB load on the OT is 22K+1500, which won't look like any significant load to the OT's secondary. The problem with switching NFB to the 4 & 8 ohm taps, is that it drastically changes the amount of NFB. Look at the lowest NFB you can dial in, 22K on the 4ohm gives you abt. -2.2dB NFB, 22K on the 8ohm gives you abt -3dB NFB. Why? because the Vrms changes between the two taps, which is the input that the voltage divider (22K & 1500) resistors attenuate and provide NFB output to the 2nd stage cathode. your variable NFB pot makes it adjustable, but you get a different range of NFB min/max available depending on the OT tap switch. an easy fix to put the NFB permanently on one tap or the other.

[@UncleDoug]

Thank you for your kind words and very informative comment, Mr. Ahern. I see your point about the variation of NFB effect between the 4 and 8 Ohm positions of the DPDT switch, as I have it wired. Since the NFB is so widely variable, from 10K to over 50K, I felt that the disparity could be compensated for by adjustment of the NFB pot after switching; however, I may well heed your suggestion and attach the NFB loop to the 8 Ohm side of the switch and evaluate the difference. Thanks again for your input, and Happy Holidays !!