There are a few reviews on SNA of Australian built McChanson valve amplifiers, but none on the 6AS7 model. As such I thought I would write this short review on my experience with this amplifier, which I have now owned for a year.  
 
In some ways, this review begins not with the amplifier but with my old Goodmans loudspeakers. About 18 months ago I bought a pair of rare old Sony APM 77w loudspeakers , and for the first time in some 15 years, returned to solid state (my SNA review of those speakers is available here: http://www.stereo.net.au/forums/index.php?/topic/54752-sony-apm-77w-vintage-review/).
 
My change of direction made me wonder what I was going to do with my old loudspeakers -  a  pair of 50 year old Goodmans Axiom 301 “full range†drivers, and Goodmans DLM compression horn tweeters - which I had paired with a little EL84 based single ended amp. For those who are not familiar with the Goodmans 301, they are massively sensitive 12 inch 60s loudspeaker which, at least to my ears, are capable of an amazingly enjoyable, “fast,†warm, albeit coloured sound. The DLM 2 tweeters are a bit more of an unknown quantity to me – there is very little information available around on these. But, according to the specification, they stretch out to 35khz, which seems amazing for such an old design, and they certainly add some zing and detail to the somewhat ragged and limited treble of the 301s. These drivers were mounted in what looked like an original 60s cabinet, but arranged quite differently from the traditional Goodmans specification, which usually mandates a large cabinet paired to a Goodmans Acoustic Resistance Unit. Against this usual arrangement, my Goodmans are mounted in a relatively “small†infinite baffle enclosure (approx 65cm x 35cm x 30 cm). While there is predictably a lack of low bass, the bass is dry and taut, which is my preference. And they still run off a handful of watts, despite the infinite baffle design.  Importantly, the Goodmans have a talent for playing jazz and acoustic music in a way like few others I have heard before – with a fatigue free authenticity that makes things believable, even if you are always aware of their limits. Its a sound that I have found hard to live without – hence why I have had these Goodmans for over 10 years. 

 

 

 

 

 

I had become curious about triodes. I had been aware of the Sydney built McChanson amplifiers for a few years, in part because I came across Eric’s guitar amplifiers before, which I had considered (I play in a baaad garage band on weekends). In an ideal world, I would set aside $5000 or more to buy a 2A3 (or similar) amplifier, which would be specified with high end components. But I don’t have that sort of money to spend on an amplifier at the moment.  I was aware that McChanson amplifiers were built to budget; however there was a no frills honesty about Eric’s designs that I found appealing, an honesty I should stress was reinforced in my own dealings with Eric when I purchased this amp. (Like other users, I barraged poor Eric with many questions before I committed to buy, all of which he painstakingly took the time to respond to in his modest and careful way). I had originally been interested in asking Eric to construct a 2A3 based amplifier for me, however this 6AS7 design really intrigued me, and Eric kindly offered me a free demonstration.

 

 

The amplifier features two 6EM7 as a two stage driver tube (this is direct coupled between stages). A single 6AS7 is used for both channels of the output stage, with a plate choke and Russian paper in oil coupling capacitor. The amplifier’s power supply is rectified with a 5Z4P. The amplifier uses McChanson’s “timE†output transformers. (It can be specified with the higher end “marzE†output transformers at higher cost). My amplifier has been fitted with a stepped attenuator, rather than the standard ALPs pot that comes with Eric’s other amps. The amplifier is a little unusual compared to other triode designs, although not without precedent; the Fi 421a uses a very similar sort of configuration (see http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/fi6/421A.html) although that is, of course, a much higher end device. The McChanson 6AS7 SET is still available for under $1000 AUD via ebay.

 

 

The appeal of this amplifier to me was the ability to roll tubes at low cost. Both 6EM7 and 6AS7 tubes are cheap and plentiful, and even the special variants of the 6AS7 type – with the exception of the Western Electric 421A – are still reasonably accessible. Having a single valve for the output stage significantly reduces the cost of experimentation. Its been a real blast to scour ebay for 6AS7 / 6080 types, knowing that I only need to order one tube. This is certainly a much cheaper route than a 2A3 /300B / 45 triode amplifier, where at least two power tubes are required, and usually tubes come at high prices. Indeed, in terms of tube rolling fun, this 6AS7 amplifier seems to be a cheaper route than other SET options, such as a triode strapped EL84, which I was also considering.

 

Sound wise, this amplifier is quite a wonder. It clearly surpassed my old little EL84 single ended amplifier, in almost every respect. The amplifier is amazingly quiet at the loudspeakers – a slight hum is there if you crank the volume and put your ear to the speakers, but this is not noticeable otherwise. Tied to the Goodmans, the sound is amazingly full and inviting. Subtle details have become more noticeable, as has the separation of instruments. Perhaps most surprising for me is the solid bass the amplifier produces, which sounds solid and natural. Naturally, I am very aware of the limits of this amp at the frequency extremes – some of the treble bite and bass slam that I have become used to with my Sony / Onkyo solid state combination is missing here. However if I  have a long night of vinyl to spin on my Thorens 124 / SME 3012 / AT 32 MC, and a bottle of single malt on hand, I know what I would pick to listen to – this triode amp and my Goodmans every time.

 

Valve rolling has been, as predicted, amazingly fun. The “Winged C†6AS7 the amplifier came with actually sounded wonderful – open, with a slightly dark sound. The RCA 6AS7 is even darker, although it does something magic to some records, particularly voices. The amplifier will also use 5998 types, which sound different again. I am not sure if I will ever try a WE421a in this amplifier, although I have used a Tung Sol 5998, which is very detailed, although a touch bright. My favourite tube so far has been the GE 5998a, which seems to work perfectly with the Goodmans. I have tried some different 6EM7 tubes (eg RCA, Sylvania), but the differences seem less pronounced.

 

 

 

The bottom line is that this amplifier has been really great value for money. I don’t have experience with high end triode amplifiers, so I can’t say how this compares to amplifiers further up the SET food chain. But it seems to offer an entry into a world that is otherwise difficult to access for audiophiles on a budget. It is pretty well built and finished; it has worked flawlessly for the last year. It continues to produce beautiful and compelling music. It has been cheap and fun to experiment with as a tube rolling machine. Eric’s responsive service has made me feel comfortable with the idea that I will be able to get support if I choose to upgrade or if I need a service. So far, I am very pleased with this amplifier. And pleased too that I found an excuse to hang onto those wonderful Goodmans speakers!

 

(System: Vinyl - Thorens 124 ii / SME 3012 / Audio Technica At 32E MC, AT 630 MC Transformer, Yaqin MS-12b; CD - Sony CDP X7ESD, Computer Audio - Asus Xonar Essence One DAC; Speakers - Goodmans Axiom 301 w/ Goodmans DLM 2 Tweeters). 

Edited January 4, 201511 yr by mkaramazov

Very nice review. I had some contacts with Eric and he was always courteous and honest. Not sure how his amps sound like but many people reckon they are very good value for money. I would love to listen to one of his amps...

I am building a similar Goodmans setup like yours with the DLM-2 tweeters and Goodmans 401s. Do you happen to have the cabinet plan of your Goodmans? The 401 was designed for sealed box, not sure about the 301...

Edit: I have actually heard the 301 and DLM-2 in a large traditional Goodmans cabinet with the ARU port and it was EXCELLENT top to bottom, especially considering the room was a bit small, hence I am pursuing a similar setup using the Goodmans drivers.

Edited January 3, 201511 yr by Jehuty

Very nice review. I had some contacts with Eric and he was always courteous and honest. Not sure how his amps sound like but many people reckon they are very good value for money. I would love to listen to one of his amps...

I am building a similar Goodmans setup like yours with the DLM-2 tweeters and Goodmans 401s. Do you happen to have the cabinet plan of your Goodmans? The 401 was designed for sealed box, not sure about the 301...

Edit: I have actually heard the 301 and DLM-2 in a large traditional Goodmans cabinet with the ARU port and it was EXCELLENT top to bottom, especially considering the room was a bit small, hence I am pursuing a similar setup using the Goodmans drivers.

 

Thanks Jehuty. 

 

Well yes, the amp seems a bargain for what it is. As I say, I don't have experience with high end triode amps to compare, but the McChanson amps seem to be materially good value for what they are. 

 

I don't have cabinet plans for mine, but happy to share details of the dimensions etc if that helps. I had a single 401 a few years ago - amazingly sensitive speaker that. 

 

Interesting about your experience with the 301 / DLM2 / ARU. I have heard great reviews about this combination, but never actually heard a pair myself. One day when I have time I plan to build something to that spec - I can imagine that with more space to breath and the ARU the 301 / DLM2 would be a different speaker. 

 

ps. Is that your Axiom 80 in your profile pic? I would love to hear those one day!

Hi mate, the pic is not mine but I do have a mint pair of the Axiom 80 in backloaded horn cabinets. When set up correctly, they are magical. My setup is not opimised yet due to lack of time and fund to tune them properly. If you have a chance and are really keen to hear them at their best, @@stevenvalve setup is the one to listen to, his system is my reference system up to now and it has been more than 5 years since I listened to his setup for the very first time.

The system with Goodmans 301 and DLM-2 belongs to a friends of mine in Wollongong. You would be surprised if you know how small his room is, and yet the system still sounds excellent! I was scratching my head big time but the system simply works damn fine!

Thanks for the offer to share your Goodmans cabinet details. I might take up the offer but for now I am keen to try the Goodmans on open baffle

mkaramazov

 

You will find you will get excellent bass response when the 301 are in the goodmans cabinets with ARU. They have speed and youd think they go lower than 35hz there isn't much perceived loss. Most modern drivers sound slow to my ears in comparison. I used to own Brads speaker and loved them for 20 years and sold them as I am building a three way version.

 

Great write up on your amp and system.

Hi mate, the pic is not mine but I do have a mint pair of the Axiom 80 in backloaded horn cabinets. When set up correctly, they are magical. My setup is not opimised yet due to lack of time and fund to tune them properly. If you have a chance and are really keen to hear them at their best, @@stevenvalve setup is the one to listen to, his system is my reference system up to now and it has been more than 5 years since I listened to his setup for the very first time.

The system with Goodmans 301 and DLM-2 belongs to a friends of mine in Wollongong. You would be surprised if you know how small his room is, and yet the system still sounds excellent! I was scratching my head big time but the system simply works damn fine!

Thanks for the offer to share your Goodmans cabinet details. I might take up the offer but for now I am keen to try the Goodmans on open baffle

 

Thanks for the tip Jehuty. From what I have heard about the axiom 80 it is all about the correct set up. Although to be honest, given the current prices, the 80s are only the stuff of fantasy for me - I doubt I will ever own a pair in my lifetime.

 

Yes - I have been very curious about the open baffle route too!

 

 

mkaramazov

 

You will find you will get excellent bass response when the 301 are in the goodmans cabinets with ARU. They have speed and youd think they go lower than 35hz there isn't much perceived loss. Most modern drivers sound slow to my ears in comparison. I used to own Brads speaker and loved them for 20 years and sold them as I am building a three way version.

 

Great write up on your amp and system.

 

Thanks hedalfa. 

 

Very interesting. I think putting my Goodmans in that sort of cabinet will be my next step. My 301s have continued to surprise me as my system has evolved. As I say in the review, I am aware of their limitations; but they render music in such a compelling way. Many modern (and much more pricey) designs I have heard have left me feeling quite cold in comparison. As you say - something about the Goodmans' perceived "speed". 

Edited January 4, 201511 yr by mkaramazov

Hi mkaramazov,

 

Yes, my Axiom 80 has doubled the price since I bought them, although I doubt that I would ever sell them.

 

I'll keep you posted about my OB plan, it would be just a simple JE Labs Open Baffle though. I hope it will still maintain its high sensitivity so that I can use good quality low powered valve amp like Eric's.

 

Are you planning to roll the valves? I am not familiar with the valves used in this amp but it would be interesting exercise I reckon 

 

Cheers,

Wil

 

PS: You took great pictures too   What camera do you use? 

There are a few reviews on SNA of Australian built McChanson valve amplifiers, but none on the 6AS7 model. As such I thought I would write this short review on my experience with this amplifier, which I have now owned for a year.

In some ways, this review begins not with the amplifier but with my old Goodmans loudspeakers. About 18 months ago I bought a pair of rare old Sony APM 77w loudspeakers , and for the first time in some 15 years, returned to solid state (my SNA review of those speakers is available here: http://www.stereo.net.au/forums/index.php?/topic/54752-sony-apm-77w-vintage-review/).

My change of direction made me wonder what I was going to do with my old loudspeakers - a pair of 50 year old Goodmans Axiom 301 “full range†drivers, and Goodmans DLM compression horn tweeters - which I had paired with a little EL84 based single ended amp. For those who are not familiar with the Goodmans 301, they are massively sensitive 12 inch 60s loudspeaker which, at least to my ears, are capable of an amazingly enjoyable, “fast,†warm, albeit coloured sound. The DLM 2 tweeters are a bit more of an unknown quantity to me – there is very little information available around on these. But, according to the specification, they stretch out to 35khz, which seems amazing for such an old design, and they certainly add some zing and detail to the somewhat ragged and limited treble of the 301s. These drivers were mounted in what looked like an original 60s cabinet, but arranged quite differently from the traditional Goodmans specification, which usually mandates a large cabinet paired to a Goodmans Acoustic Resistance Unit. Against this usual arrangement, my Goodmans are mounted in a relatively “small†infinite baffle enclosure (approx 65cm x 35cm x 30 cm). While there is predictably a lack of low bass, the bass is dry and taut, which is my preference. And they still run off a handful of watts, despite the infinite baffle design. Importantly, the Goodmans have a talent for playing jazz and acoustic music in a way like few others I have heard before – with a fatigue free authenticity that makes things believable, even if you are always aware of their limits. Its a sound that I have found hard to live without – hence why I have had these Goodmans for over 10 years.

301 sm.jpg

dlm2 sm.jpg

goodmans 1 sm.jpg

goodmans 2sm 2.jpg

I had become curious about triodes. I had been aware of the Sydney built McChanson amplifiers for a few years, in part because I came across Eric’s guitar amplifiers before, which I had considered (I play in a baaad garage band on weekends). In an ideal world, I would set aside $5000 or more to buy a 2A3 (or similar) amplifier, which would be specified with high end components. But I don’t have that sort of money to spend on an amplifier at the moment. I was aware that McChanson amplifiers were built to budget; however there was a no frills honesty about Eric’s designs that I found appealing, an honesty I should stress was reinforced in my own dealings with Eric when I purchased this amp. (Like other users, I barraged poor Eric with many questions before I committed to buy, all of which he painstakingly took the time to respond to in his modest and careful way). I had originally been interested in asking Eric to construct a 2A3 based amplifier for me, however this 6AS7 design really intrigued me, and Eric kindly offered me a free demonstration.

The amplifier features two 6EM7 as a two stage driver tube (this is direct coupled between stages). A single 6AS7 is used for both channels of the output stage, with a plate choke and Russian paper in oil coupling capacitor. The amplifier’s power supply is rectified with a 5Z4P. The amplifier uses McChanson’s “timE†output transformers. (It can be specified with the higher end “marzE†output transformers at higher cost). My amplifier has been fitted with a stepped attenuator, rather than the standard ALPs pot that comes with Eric’s other amps. The amplifier is a little unusual compared to other triode designs, although not without precedent; the Fi 421a uses a very similar sort of configuration (see http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/fi6/421A.html) although that is, of course, a much higher end device. The McChanson 6AS7 SET is still available for under $1000 AUD via ebay.

se amp sm.jpg

The appeal of this amplifier to me was the ability to roll tubes at low cost. Both 6EM7 and 6AS7 tubes are cheap and plentiful, and even the special variants of the 6AS7 type – with the exception of the Western Electric 421A – are still reasonably accessible. Having a single valve for the output stage significantly reduces the cost of experimentation. Its been a real blast to scour ebay for 6AS7 / 6080 types, knowing that I only need to order one tube. This is certainly a much cheaper route than a 2A3 /300B / 45 triode amplifier, where at least two power tubes are required, and usually tubes come at high prices. Indeed, in terms of tube rolling fun, this 6AS7 amplifier seems to be a cheaper route than other SET options, such as a triode strapped EL84, which I was also considering.

Sound wise, this amplifier is quite a wonder. It clearly surpassed my old little EL84 single ended amplifier, in almost every respect. The amplifier is amazingly quiet at the loudspeakers – a slight hum is there if you crank the volume and put your ear to the speakers, but this is not noticeable otherwise. Tied to the Goodmans, the sound is amazingly full and inviting. Subtle details have become more noticeable, as has the separation of instruments. Perhaps most surprising for me is the solid bass the amplifier produces, which sounds solid and natural. Naturally, I am very aware of the limits of this amp at the frequency extremes – some of the treble bite and bass slam that I have become used to with my Sony / Onkyo solid state combination is missing here. However if I have a long night of vinyl to spin on my Thorens 124 / SME 3012 / AT 32 MC, and a bottle of single malt on hand, I know what I would pick to listen to – this triode amp and my Goodmans every time.

Valve rolling has been, as predicted, amazingly fun. The “Winged C†6AS7 the amplifier came with actually sounded wonderful – open, with a slightly dark sound. The RCA 6AS7 is even darker, although it does something magic to some records, particularly voices. The amplifier will also use 5998 types, which sound different again. I am not sure if I will ever try a WE421a in this amplifier, although I have used a Tung Sol 5998, which is very detailed, although a touch bright. My favourite tube so far has been the GE 5998a, which seems to work perfectly with the Goodmans. I have tried some different 6EM7 tubes (eg RCA, Sylvania), but the differences seem less pronounced.

RCA 6a7g sm.jpg

RCA 6080 sm.jpg

The bottom line is that this amplifier has been really great value for money. I don’t have experience with high end triode amplifiers, so I can’t say how this compares to amplifiers further up the SET food chain. But it seems to offer an entry into a world that is otherwise difficult to access for audiophiles on a budget. It is pretty well built and finished; it has worked flawlessly for the last year. It continues to produce beautiful and compelling music. It has been cheap and fun to experiment with as a tube rolling machine. Eric’s responsive service has made me feel comfortable with the idea that I will be able to get support if I choose to upgrade or if I need a service. So far, I am very pleased with this amplifier. And pleased too that I found an excuse to hang onto those wonderful Goodmans speakers!

(System: Vinyl - Thorens 124 ii / SME 3012 / Audio Technica At 32E MC, AT 630 MC Transformer, Yaqin MS-12b; CD - Sony CDP X7ESD, Computer Audio - Asus Xonar Essence One DAC; Speakers - Goodmans Axiom 301 w/ Goodmans DLM 2 Tweeters).

Nice review Din!

I have Eric's 6as7 too except I have Eric designed to have 2 6as7 parallel to give a bit more power plus a few better caps, I think I also have the maz transformer as well...and mine is the power amp version which I asked Eric to do and he is a very nice man, I had lots of questions too and he was patient enough to give all the answers that I want. He made a line amp for me before so hence the power version of the 6as7 and the result was amazing, soumdwise I guess you summed all up nicely. And I can hardly listen to cd except for background music. Eric and I both agreed that the 6as7 sounds better than 300b or 2a3... Because of the properties of the 6as7 and lower mu? Too technical for me....I recently bought a little full range from Blumenstein Audio in US and compare to my bookshelf KEF, the full range killsvthe kef and it only has a 3 inch driver, now I am looking to get a 5 inch... The full range and 6as7 combo is pretty amazing, I have heard set amp cost around 10K but I can tell straight away that Eric's is as good of not better, to me it's better... With the right tubes and speakers of course.

Cheers

Dennis

Hi mkaramazov,

 

Yes, my Axiom 80 has doubled the price since I bought them, although I doubt that I would ever sell them.

 

I'll keep you posted about my OB plan, it would be just a simple JE Labs Open Baffle though. I hope it will still maintain its high sensitivity so that I can use good quality low powered valve amp like Eric's.

 

Are you planning to roll the valves? I am not familiar with the valves used in this amp but it would be interesting exercise I reckon 

 

Cheers,

Wil

 

PS: You took great pictures too   What camera do you use? 

 

Absolutely Jehuty, the prices keep climbing on the Axiom 80s. I remember contemplating a pair around 10 years ago which were then around $500. They would have been an amazing investment, even if I had just kept them under my bed. 

 

I would love to hear more on the OB plans, so do keep me posted. 

 

On valve rolling, I am pretty happy with the GE5998a and the Sylvania 6EM7 I am currently using. I would like to try and new rectifier at some point though. 

 

And re: the photos - thanks :-). Its a Ricoh GRD 3. Which is not ideal for taking pictures of gear (the fixed 28mm lens isn't great for controlling depth of field), although the shots are very clear. 

 

Nice review Din!

I have Eric's 6as7 too except I have Eric designed to have 2 6as7 parallel to give a bit more power plus a few better caps, I think I also have the maz transformer as well...and mine is the power amp version which I asked Eric to do and he is a very nice man, I had lots of questions too and he was patient enough to give all the answers that I want. He made a line amp for me before so hence the power version of the 6as7 and the result was amazing, soumdwise I guess you summed all up nicely. And I can hardly listen to cd except for background music. Eric and I both agreed that the 6as7 sounds better than 300b or 2a3... Because of the properties of the 6as7 and lower mu? Too technical for me....I recently bought a little full range from Blumenstein Audio in US and compare to my bookshelf KEF, the full range killsvthe kef and it only has a 3 inch driver, now I am looking to get a 5 inch... The full range and 6as7 combo is pretty amazing, I have heard set amp cost around 10K but I can tell straight away that Eric's is as good of not better, to me it's better... With the right tubes and speakers of course.

Cheers

Dennis

 

Dennis - nice to hear from you and thanks for the comments on the post. I have never heard a 2A3 or 300B to compare, although there are enough people out there who suggest that despite its limitations, the 6AS7 is capable of great things due to its low plate resistance, although I am not enough of a tech guy to comment authoritatively on this. Pleased to hear you are experimenting with full range drivers - it is interesting how this sort of amp can change completely depending what speakers they are connected to. I agree of course - Eric is a great guy!

Absolutely Jehuty, the prices keep climbing on the Axiom 80s. I remember contemplating a pair around 10 years ago which were then around $500. They would have been an amazing investment, even if I had just kept them under my bed.

I would love to hear more on the OB plans, so do keep me posted.

On valve rolling, I am pretty happy with the GE5998a and the Sylvania 6EM7 I am currently using. I would like to try and new rectifier at some point though.

And re: the photos - thanks :-). Its a Ricoh GRD 3. Which is not ideal for taking pictures of gear (the fixed 28mm lens isn't great for controlling depth of field), although the shots are very clear.

Dennis - nice to hear from you and thanks for the comments on the post. I have never heard a 2A3 or 300B to compare, although there are enough people out there who suggest that despite its limitations, the 6AS7 is capable of great things due to its low plate resistance, although I am not enough of a tech guy to comment authoritatively on this. Pleased to hear you are experimenting with full range drivers - it is interesting how this sort of amp can change completely depending what speakers they are connected to. I agree of course - Eric is a great guy!

Hi Din, I am currently using tele Gz32 rectifier, I also have a RCA Gz32 and Brimar but sold them, and I am keeping a mullard gz34. So far mullard and tele are the best without costing me a fortune. If you haven't try these, you can give them a go, I think both tele and mullard are very tubes, some people say that the tele is the best ever made gz32...

Cheers

Glad you had a better experience with the McChannson amps than I did.

I bought two 2A3's off him.

Indeed, he is a wonderful chap, easy to talk to and very informative and helpful.

The 2A3's however were a different story.

I plugged one in and listened to some music. It was replacing a Carver Sunfire Signature.

I'd thought I maybe plugged things in wrong, so checked all connections and listened again but still had very ordinary sound.

Luckily of course, I had ordered two, so I plugged the other one in.

Exactly the same.

It wasn't worth returning them and then losing money on a restocking fee, so I kept them for about a year before getting them upgraded by LoveTube.

Now they sound absolutely devine.

I'm not here to bag Eric, but just to give the advice to try and listen to one if possible before purchasing.

Andrew

Edited January 4, 201511 yr by faxcomp

Glad you had a better experience with the McChannson amps than I did.

I bought two 2A3's off him.

Indeed, he is a wonderful chap, easy to talk to and very informative and helpful.

The 2A3's however were a different story.

I plugged one in and listened to some music. It was replacing a Carver Sunfire Signature.

I'd thought I maybe plugged things in wrong, so checked all connections and listened again but still had very ordinary sound.

Luckily of course, I had ordered two, so I plugged the other one in.

Exactly the same.

It wasn't worth returning them and then losing money on a restocking fee, so I kept them for about a year before getting them upgraded by LoveTube.

Now they sound absolutely devine.

I'm not here to bag Eric, but just to give the advice to try and listen to one if possible before purchasing.

Andrew

What did lovetube do to it?

Hi Dennis.

I feel that i should answer this question for Andrew as he might not know how to answer your question.

what i did was strip the amp right off , only keeping the power transformer and a choke which i want to replace as well but budget not allow to do that .

i install the Lundahl output transformers on both of the amp and run my new circuit on both amps ( with all the new higher specs components )  and fine tune them so they can sound as they best .

hope this help

Duc

PS; I forgot. I also rewire the rectifier tube so it is now actively powered the whole amp .

Edited January 5, 201511 yr by lovetube

Eric built me a 2A3 amp a couple of years ago using a direct coupled 6EM7 as input/driver.  He knew that I wanted to use JJ-2A3 40 so gave me switchable high voltage to provide for the more powerful tubes but also cope with standard 2A3.

It was fitted with the Mars transformers which while being fairly inexpensive and of PRC manufacture have gained a deal of acceptance in DIY circles.

Eric also understood that I would likely tinker with it after it had some burn-in time.

I tried 4 different sets of tubes in it, 2 standard 2A3 type and 2 higher power types.

Initially I found it somewhat lacking in punch and bass power except when used on the higher voltage with the stronger tubes, but found that after around 1000 hours it seemed to open up and the transformers perhaps burned in sufficiently with the higher voltage that it was then quite OK on the lower voltage with the lower powered tubes or the higher powered ones.

I replaced the main coupling caps with Duelund Alexander and a number of critical resistors with AMRG carbon film types, I also replaced the volume pot with a stepped attenuator using Takman metal film and an Amtrans shunt resistor, the input sockets with Eichmann and WBT and the speaker connections with Eichmann cablepods.

I have no idea how it might compare with the one Duc rebuilt and I have wondered about replacing the output transformers with Lundahl amorphous cores, but a pair of those are as much as I paid for the amp in the first place.

With my speakers I have enjoyed it enormously and it has seen off a number of other amps here, oddly enough being stronger in the bottom  end than my previous 22 watt amp that perhaps did not gel as well with my speakers.

Anyone local who wants can arrange to have a listen to it, I found it very good VFM and had a lot of fun tinkering with it.

Hi Din, I am currently using tele Gz32 rectifier, I also have a RCA Gz32 and Brimar but sold them, and I am keeping a mullard gz34. So far mullard and tele are the best without costing me a fortune. If you haven't try these, you can give them a go, I think both tele and mullard are very tubes, some people say that the tele is the best ever made gz32...

Cheers

 

Thanks Dennis. I will definitely give a NOS rectifier a go sometime this year. I am a huge fan of the 12ax7 / 12au7 Teles I have in my collection - they seem to perfectly combine transparency and warmth - so I am not surprised that your experience with these tubes have also been positive. 

 

Glad you had a better experience with the McChannson amps than I did.

I bought two 2A3's off him.

Indeed, he is a wonderful chap, easy to talk to and very informative and helpful.

The 2A3's however were a different story.

I plugged one in and listened to some music. It was replacing a Carver Sunfire Signature.

I'd thought I maybe plugged things in wrong, so checked all connections and listened again but still had very ordinary sound.

Luckily of course, I had ordered two, so I plugged the other one in.

Exactly the same.

It wasn't worth returning them and then losing money on a restocking fee, so I kept them for about a year before getting them upgraded by LoveTube.

Now they sound absolutely devine.

I'm not here to bag Eric, but just to give the advice to try and listen to one if possible before purchasing.

Andrew

 

Thanks Andrew, and sorry to hear that your McChanson amps were not suitable out of the box for you. 

 

Yes, I agree that an audition is a must. I was lucky that I lived in Sydney, so I could test the McChanson amplifier before I committed to buy - Eric was generous in being able to offer a review sample. The results in my amp varied strongly depending on what speakers (and tubes)  I used. For example my 90db efficient Sony APM 77Ws sound clean but somewhat lucklustre with the 6AS7 amp. I almost certainly wouldn't have bought the amp had they not worked so well with my Goodmans (hence why the review above is really a review of the amp and speakers). My amp's sound changed dramatically depending on whether a 6AS7 or 5998 type tube was installed - which makes sense because they are different tubes. 

 

As ever the budget is a real balancing act. I am aware that far better results will be possible with higher end OPTs (as lovetube has installed for you), although this changes  the costs of the amplifier substantially. But, it is nice to know that Lundhal OPTs would be - naturally you would think - a great upgrade route for me to consider down the track. 

Hi Dennis.

I feel that i should answer this question for Andrew as he might not know how to answer your question.

what i did was strip the amp right off , only keeping the power transformer and a choke which i want to replace as well but budget not allow to do that .

i install the Lundahl output transformers on both of the amp and run my new circuit on both amps ( with all the new higher specs components )  and fine tune them so they can sound as they best .

hope this help

Duc

PS; I forgot. I also rewire the rectifier tube so it is now actively powered the whole amp .

Not a right way to advertise the business.

Thanks Dennis. I will definitely give a NOS rectifier a go sometime this year. I am a huge fan of the 12ax7 / 12au7 Teles I have in my collection - they seem to perfectly combine transparency and warmth - so I am not surprised that your experience with these tubes have also been positive. 

 

 

Thanks Andrew, and sorry to hear that your McChanson amps were not suitable out of the box for you. 

 

Yes, I agree that an audition is a must. I was lucky that I lived in Sydney, so I could test the McChanson amplifier before I committed to buy - Eric was generous in being able to offer a review sample. The results in my amp varied strongly depending on what speakers (and tubes)  I used. For example my 90db efficient Sony APM 77Ws sound clean but somewhat lucklustre with the 6AS7 amp. I almost certainly wouldn't have bought the amp had they not worked so well with my Goodmans (hence why the review above is really a review of the amp and speakers). My amp's sound changed dramatically depending on whether a 6AS7 or 5998 type tube was installed - which makes sense because they are different tubes. 

 

As ever the budget is a real balancing act. I am aware that far better results will be possible with higher end OPTs (as lovetube has installed for you), although this changes  the costs of the amplifier substantially. But, it is nice to know that Lundhal OPTs would be - naturally you would think - a great upgrade route for me to consider down the track. 

Better OPT's don't have to cost the earth, though I'm not an expert. Look around in Oz and you'll probably be surprised; I sure was when the OPT's for my 2A3 amp were wound locally in NZ for a reasonable price.

Not a right way to advertise the business.

 

I think so too that is why i'm a SNA sponsor .

however what did i done wrong with my answer to the post that i responsible for ? i'm only saying the true of what i done to the amps that brought to me to do the upgrade because the owner of the amps is not happy with how the amp sound at all .there is a lot of thing's that i haven't say or don't want to say about these amp as i don't want to hurt the amp builder and his business .

hope this is clear

Edited January 6, 201511 yr by lovetube

 

Not a right way to advertise the business.

I agree with Duc.

He just answered a question that was asked.

Also, he did not impose that his was a better design that Erics...............I did.

Just because someone runs a business and gives some advice, doesn't mean he is trying to either get business or put another person or business down.

Most amps are built to some kind of budget, doesn't mean they are bad at all. At the same time due to this, most can be upgraded in some way. So I can't see anything wrong with Duc's post, he didn't even bring it up, he only outlined what he did after someone asked, much better from himself than from anyone else and risk inaccuracy.

 

I'm a supporter of Eric and his amps, they are very good for the cost.

Edited January 7, 201511 yr by ortofun

 

I agree with Duc.

He just answered a question that was asked.

Also, he did not impose that his was a better design that Erics...............I did.

Just because someone runs a business and gives some advice, doesn't mean he is trying to either get business or put another person or business down.

No offense to anyone. Logically, you should have responded from user perspective having posted the original note. Any other justifications should have come after – common sense prevailing.

 

No offense to anyone. Logically, you should have responded from user perspective having posted the original note. Any other justifications should have come after – common sense prevailing.

As Duc said, no good me answering as I wouldn't know the different between a valve and a capacitor. (slight over-exageration, but you get what I mean), so trying to explain what had been done to upgrade my amp would have been incorrect and misguided.

The question was answered by the best person who could answer, the man who did the job.

It may be time to let this one go.

As many have said, Eric builds the amps to a budget. He is a very helpful and honest person. I do not and did not want to bag his work or the quality of the sound, except to say that the sound was not up to my expectations.

This was only a warning for those that may have thought that a $1000 2A3 will sound better than a $2500 amplifier, solid state or tube.

It won't. Just listen before you buy was my advice.

Very, very few pieces of kit aren't built to a budget.

 

No big deal, Eric builds very nice amps for his market, and Duc also is very good but in a different market segment as I see things.

 

Thumbs up for both of these guys

Very, very few pieces of kit aren't built to a budget.

No big deal, Eric builds very nice amps for his market, and Duc also is very good but in a different market segment as I see things.

Thumbs up for both of these guys

I agree, I think Eric's amps are worth the money and if you can spend a bit more money for a few upgrades, like caps, transformer...etc, you put an extra $1k on a $1.5k amp it will sound better than a $3k amp for sure. If you are thinking spending $1k and expecting it sounds like a $3k amp, you are dreaming. People have to earn for their living, there is no free lunch.

Eric's amps don't use very high quality components but he allows people to change and bring their own components to build the amp to exactly how you want it to be.

My 2 cents...

I think we are doing very well to have amp builders here like Eric, Duc and Earle and others here in Australia.

 

Not every amp suits everyone or every system, so It's great to have all these options