audioXpress magazine reviews The Bottle Builder – Elektor’s massive compendium of tube amplifier designs
Several design projects are provided, 40 in total. The designs are explained, and the unique features or methods he uses are described in further detail. Each design includes detailed schematics and a complete parts list. Many of the projects also include layout documentation in the form of CAD photos of the PCB layouts. The range of projects is very diverse and includes something that will appeal to everyone. Stereo amplifiers, guitar and bass amplifiers, preamplifiers for phono, and microphones are all covered. Several variants for each type are included, and the power amplifier designs range from a few watts to several hundred watts, which meet almost any power level you might tackle.
The compilation of design documentation on each project is impressive. The book’s subtitle, A Compendium of Tube Amp Designs, is completely appropriate and an accurate description of the book. Rarely is such a detailed set of design documentation provided in a published format.
This level of detail is usually only available at a working level inside a company when developing a product for manufacturing. As an example, a thorough parts list is detailed on every project, including part numbers, manufacturers, and physical dimensions. This provides not just a list for that project, but a valuable starting point for parts to consider or part families to consider in your own designs. Similarly, clear schematics are provided on every project and documented in a way you can use as-is, or copy elements of a design for your own project.
Quality is emphasized throughout the book, particularly in the parts selection. As audio builders, we notice and appreciate quality. Oddly enough, I also noticed the quality of the book is very good. There is a hardy hardcover and well-bound pages, with built-in bookmark strings to save your place— well done.
The compilation of design documentation on each project is impressive. The book’s subtitle, A Compendium of Tube Amp Designs, is completely appropriate and an accurate description of the book. Rarely is such a detailed set of design documentation provided in a published format.
This level of detail is usually only available at a working level inside a company when developing a product for manufacturing. As an example, a thorough parts list is detailed on every project, including part numbers, manufacturers, and physical dimensions. This provides not just a list for that project, but a valuable starting point for parts to consider or part families to consider in your own designs. Similarly, clear schematics are provided on every project and documented in a way you can use as-is, or copy elements of a design for your own project.
Quality is emphasized throughout the book, particularly in the parts selection. As audio builders, we notice and appreciate quality. Oddly enough, I also noticed the quality of the book is very good. There is a hardy hardcover and well-bound pages, with built-in bookmark strings to save your place— well done.
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