Would like to build my own gear - tips please

[Napoleon]

Hi guys

I'm a 90% complete beginner when it comes to electronics.

Would like to build my own gear especially EQ's!!, Can solder, have patience, know the difference between resistors and capacitors etc..., but have no clue how to go about it !!

Enjoy the practical side and learning as I go along. Don't want to get overwhelmed with theory.

Are there any basic kits that you could advise that will help me better understand ??

Any one need a lackey (will work for free, : ) in a small studio in return for some guidance on building gear ??

I'm based in Medway, Kent, UK.


N

 

[anjing]

Maybe you should consider the BoHansen direct box.
http://groupdiy.com/index.php?topic=36569.0
It's not too complex of a build, it's well documented, the components are readily available(a pcb is available) and most of all it's very usefull to have one in the studio!

Other then that just spend time reading the forum and you will find the project that resonate for you. Lots of choice!

Regards,

Pierre

 

[Unit7]

Hi guys

I'm a 90% complete beginner when it comes to electronics.

Would like to build my own gear especially EQ's!!, Can solder, have patience, know the difference between resistors and capacitors etc..., but have no clue how to go about it !!

Enjoy the practical side and learning as I go along. Don't want to get overwhelmed with theory.

Are there any basic kits that you could advise that will help me better understand ??

Any one need a lackey (will work for free, : ) in a small studio in return for some guidance on building gear ??

I'm based in Medway, Kent, UK.


N

Sounds just like me one year ago Now I've done like fifteen 500 modules incl eleven eqs. Have had close to zero build issues except with the PSU for the 51X, did a couple of goofs on that one, and had a couple of other issues but nothing serious. Start with something that has detailed build manuals, like TB audio (SUPERB build manuals), or go for something with a Chunger build diary here on GDIY. Thanks to Chunger you could probably go for the mighty LC53A right away... Perhaps check a few PCB soldering tips on YouTube. After a couple of kits you'll be hooked!

 

[kante1603]

Some easy to do EQs are the 169 (Studer) and the W492 (Neumann).
Pretty much info here,just do a search.

Best,

Udo.

 

[shabtek]

central power supply to feed multiple boxes

kinda like the 51x power supply--will work for most i.c./transistor projects...won't need to buy 500 frame but it will always be possible...just decide on what connector you'll use

 

[Napoleon]

Thanks for the input guys

Just deciding what Kit to get first. EQ's are what I need for master bus or for further single line inputs, so this could be good for motivation. 500 series sounds like a plan, it will take up less space and will be able to add units as go along.
Will check out Chunger build diaries sound promising.

Had an idea, probably (certainly) done before:
I would like to saturate the signal with valve warmth or just send a signal through a circuit (with) valve to reap benefits of analogue circuit.

What projects currently exist to do this that you recommend or should I start from scratch ??
Would it be complicated ??

Thanks

N

 

[kante1603]

Had an idea, probably (certainly) done before:
I would like to saturate the signal with valve warmth or just send a signal through a circuit (with) valve to reap benefits of analogue circuit.

What projects currently exist to do this that you recommend or should I start from scratch ??
Would it be complicated ??

Thanks

N

Hi Napoleon,

There's a nice looking project going on here actually:

http://groupdiy.com/index.php?topic=50337.0

Another good thing for tape saturation style is here:

http://www.soundskulptor.com/uk/sts.html

And this of course:

http://classicapi.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=22_117_120

Personally I had a great experience with my Lovechildren (LC53A from Jeff/Clasic API) when in bypass mode:As the signal still runs through the in and ouptput stages-meanining all DOAs,followers and transformers-it makes everything sound really big and warm,depending how hard the circuit is driven of course.Killer!
These would serve both of your needs,hahaha......

Lots of the projects here do nice colours to your sound.

Best regards and sweet dreams,

Udo

 

[Rochey]

I strongly advise starting with simple, kit-like projects,
Early and quick success will be enough to get you hooked and feeling good about your skills.
they'll also get you familar with working with measurement tools such as a decent multimeter.

Like any new hobby, try not to be tooo cheap (like using a $10 Soldering Iron). Do yourself a favor, buy a half decent soldering Iron (I enjoy a Hakko 936 knockoff) a decent multimeter and, if you have a little budget left over, an oscilloscope (I like the rigol ones). Then top it off with something like a Behringer USB Soundcard for sending and recording test signals.

i think with tools like that, you'll be able to tune, tweak and solder virtually any system on this website.

 

[Napoleon]

Udo those look great ! definitely will build one of these

Rochey agree with you will order a simple kit before diving into a more serious project. Think will order the simple DI box as cost this month an issue. Will complete this then jump in to bigger more complex projects.

Can't wait to start these projects and incorporate this projects into my studio work flow

N

 

[Rochey]

Don't forget, the metalwork can be just as hard as the electronics!

 

[Napoleon]

Yes it does seem tricky if making the units. I'm sure can buy boxes and perhaps blank 19"u's online somewhere.
I have the drill bits to drill holes wider than will be needed for these type of projects.
There is a German website (can't remember address off hand) that sell printable transfer sheets. That will allow to draw up some indicator lines etc... to stick to units.

IDEA  again sure it's been done before, but:
1- you could grab a cheap old effects unit off eBay
2- throw bits or keep for spares and use/adapt shell.
All hole will be already drilled for pentiometers, switches etc etc
4- Just re-spray to choice
5- ad transfers é voila  ;D

Full customised unit!!

It what I will be doing if it works out cheaper than buying a new blank unit.

N
p.s. becoming more excited by the minute to start!

 

[okgb]

And do enough research to realize you're posting in the wrong section
measure twice cut once