so i have some spare 12ax7's. anyone have any suggestions to a project with layouts i could do with them? i only have one tube socket on hand so preferably a project that only utilizes one. i wanted to make a valvecaster but from what i read this tube wouldn't work.
12au7 is a lower gain, that fits where the 12a_7 tube was.
See data sheets for all the 12a_7 tubes.
It's all about power supplies and layout, grounding.
the triodes are otherwise about the same 'get working as wiring as Jfets circuits, higher voltage may mean bigger voltage/wattage ratings on components, it's also dangerous, involves 120vac or 220vac line work at least.
A 36vdc printer wallwart output is a fun/easy safe place to start with the B+ line, a WW of sufficient current output and a regulator [or other supply method] for the heater.
12ax7's 'work' but dont provide much gain or become 'lively' with starved plate voltages.
True, they need a B+ of at least 150 volts. Preferably 200-250, though you can try 300 too if you feel braver than usual. :icon_wink:
A single 12AX7 with a low-voltage power supply will need a little solid-state help, like with Aron's much-praised Shaka Tube.
Quote from: anchovie on July 24, 2010, 02:33:03 AM
Aron's much-praised Shaka Tube.
layout? i am sorry, but the layout section is rather confusing for me to navigate. not that i don't understand what i am looking at. i just can't find my way around it.
Shaka: http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=18369.0
Layout and loads of additional information at diyguitarist.com. Search Shaka Tube
thanks a lot! that actually looks pretty easy.