18Watt.com

I was just wondering whether it is possible to use a different transformer wattage in the designs? Based on the fact that I have many single-ended 25W transformers readily available and would like to try out Fransisco's Vajra 18W.

Cold someone explain the possible problems with this?

Thanks,
Law.

Yes you can use a higher wattage OT. However, in some amplifiers OT saturation is part of the sound and raising up the wattage to handle it more efficiently will take that part of the tone out. My experience is that a larger OT gives you more low end (not that it is necessarily needed) and it will be cleaner sounding in its own way.

Also, you say single-ended. This design is P-P so you will have that to deal with as well.

HTH,
~ Ross

Cheers for that. Dealing with the single ended part isn't much of a problem, just I'd heard of people having troubles with different wattage transformers.

Thanks again,

Law.

I think part of the sound of the 18watt is the EL84 output tubes, and a lot of the sound is the PI overload behavior. You could make a single-ended version with a 6L6 or EL34, but it will likely sound different.

--mark

markh wrote:You could make a single-ended version with a 6L6 or EL34, but it will likely sound different.

It sounds like a future idea. Although I have managed to get my hands on a couple of push-pull output transformers from vtt transformers.

I wil try the 18 watt with an EL84 which I found a few days ago.

Law.

Law wrote:

markh wrote:You could make a single-ended version with a 6L6 or EL34, but it will likely sound different.

It sounds like a future idea. Although I have managed to get my hands on a couple of push-pull output transformers from vtt transformers.

I wil try the 18 watt with an EL84 which I found a few days ago.

Law.

I meant EL34....

Cool - be sure to let us know how it turns out.

--mark