Hello all - I'm just hearing about this DIY project but was considering if tube amps are better for me, so you can consider me a skeptic at this point. That would be excellent if some of you can answer a few of my questions. And if it's already been answered that's OK to just post a link to the page of the answer.
- Is this DIY unit prone to breaking easily? I mean changing the parts on a semi-frequent basis, does that drastically increase the linkelyhood that the whole unit will go kaput? (basing this on if I'm careful)
- Approx. how would you compare this to a tube amp? I know that's probably opening up a larger question, but below are my sound preferences
- Specifically about how would you compare this to a tube amp, in terms of clarity, punchyness, sound stage, etc.?
After testing several amps at a head-fi meeting I discovered I seem to like tube amps, or even solid state / tube amp hybrids the best so I'm basically wondering if I should still go with this E12 DIY or not. The other amps I'm considering are Schiit Vali and Little Dot MK3 / MK4.
(I prefer a fairly flat sound signature that is punchy/dynamic, slightly warm and highs that are detailed yet not harsh)
LOL...I predict you will end up with both sooner or later.
If you are looking for a portable amp, the E12DIY is a fantastic choice. It's even great as an all-arounder, for portable and home use.
But if you like tubes and are looking for a home system, by all means, pursue tubes first.
Both the E12DIY and a good tube amp can be very musical. Well excecuted tubes do offer a sense of organic fluidity that's very difficult for solid state to approach, however. If you've ever heard a good single-ended triode amp (like 300B or 2A3) driving horn speakers or high efficiency full-range single driver speakers (like Lowther or Altec), you know how addictive this sound signature can be.
But you do have to play around a lot with tubes. System matching is key. And you have a whole world of tube rolling to explore. Often the stock tubes you receive really mask the true potential of a tube amp.
If you want to start with tubes on a budget, the Schiit Vali is great. It's a hybrid that has a good dose of that tube magic, and it pairs well with a wide range of cans. I've had great success with mine and am currently using it in my bedside system.
The Darkvoice SE336 is also a good amp, but on the thick and dark side. Tube rolling is indicated here, and also very careful system matching. Maybe too much work for a first tube amp.
I've heard great things about the Bottlehead Crack and Prject Ember amps, but haven't had a chance to build either of mine, yet, so can't say from experience. But these are both worth looking into.
I also just received a Little Dot MkIII. It sounds good, has that tube lushness and warmth, but far too early for me to make an assessment . This seems to be a widely loved amp, however.
I also have used a tube based Berning Micro ZOTL for years, and that has been nice, too. Sort of an early hybrid design. Apparently, they are re-releasing it in the near future.
Yeah, if tubes is what you want, go for it. There are a lot of great choices these days. They all sound a bit different, so I recommend looking into the go-to tube amps, research them, and go for the one that seems right to you.
I bet you'll still pick up the E12DIY at some point (if they're still available) for portable listening.
Good luck!
