21 January 2019, 09:35 AM
markjStereo build. Part 2.
The amplifier build went so well, and it sounds very good, so I ordered the Pre-Amp kit and built it over the weekend.
Some photos of the build.
The controller board. This is a two sided board. The push buttons and LED indicators are on the other side and protrude through the front panel.
Getting them to line up was not too big of a problem. I can see where it would be to someone who is a sloppy solderer.
Testing the controller...
The input selector board. The gold plated contacts were optional.
Testing the input selector...
Base kit is complete.
The headphone jack is missing on purpose. I also ordered the optional headphone amp and phono stage.
A makeshift stand for everything. Made from 2'x4'x3/4" Veneered OSB shelves and some old speakers I had in laying around. Ah! Just like the college days!

After listening to the pre-amp for a couple of hours, decided to build the headphone amp last night. I was up until 3:00 am listening to it. It sounds amazing.
21 January 2019, 09:55 AM
wtgI only have one question: Did you go outside to look at the eclipse?
Great work on the electronics, mark. Thanks for sharing your projects with us!
21 January 2019, 11:27 AM
markjI did go outside very briefly to catch a glance at the eclipse. I have seen many lunar eclipses. Pretty much seen one, you've seen them all.
Solar eclipses on the other hand... I will travel to see the next one. The last one, my first, was so sublime. I need to see it again.
21 January 2019, 06:27 PM
markjOnce I get started...
Decided that since all my customers have the day off, I would take the time to build the phono pre-amp.
Progress shots...
I still have to do the wiring and mounting inside the main pre-amp.
It will be tested tonight!
22 January 2019, 12:26 AM
DanielWaiting for your evaluation!