[spritzer]

The only stock upgrade is the RK50 and what we're talking about is either DIY or something that will be offered later on. There will be no Black Gates though since the WKZ caps needed are all sold out and commanding huge prices on the used market but there are alternatives which are probably better. I'd much rather invest more in a better PSU the worry about the caps used.

 

[Deadneddz]

Thanks

 

[Larry I]

I have just been informed that a first run BHSE is available so I am now on the list. I will be sending out a deposit check today.

I decided to NOT go for the RK50 pot because I plan to adjust volume from my linestage through its remotely controlled stepped attenuator (.5 db steps).

Any suggestions on the tube complement to try? I am not an EL34 person (more of a triode person), so I don't know what are some of the options.

 

[Ricey20]

XF1, XF2s seem to be the most popular and expensive ones.

Did Justin give you any updates on the first run? He told me he was expecting the last of the parts to come last week.

 

[Larry I]

No exact shipping date. He just said that it was "a few weeks" before he starts shipping.

 

[Ricey20]

ah ic. Anyway, CONGRATS on getting into the first run

Did he just add an extra slot to it or did someone give theirs up?

 

[Larry I]

It appears that someone gave up their slot on the list. Perhaps the present state of the economy has something to do with it, who knows?

 

[spritzer]

The Mullard XF2's are my favorite EL34 tubes but you have to think twice before buying a set off ebay. You have to test them before plugging them in the amp as these are power tubes, swinging a lot of volts/current and if something were to go wrong it will probably go horribly wrong. You have been warned!

 

[krmathis]

Larry I. Great news!

It took Justin more than 20 long months from start to finish for the KGBH SE, but hopefully the end product are nothing but stunning.

Can't wait to see pictures of the final result, and of course to read user impressions.

 

[Larry I]

Thanks everyone for the words of encouragement. As to the advice on tube selection, I will look into the Mullards. I do have an Amplitrex tube tester, so, hopefully, no faulty tubes will be going into the BHSE.

 

[spritzer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Larry I /img/forum/go_quote.gif Thanks everyone for the words of encouragement. As to the advice on tube selection, I will look into the Mullards. I do have an Amplitrex tube tester, so, hopefully, no faulty tubes will be going into the BHSE.

Good to know. I was being a bit harsh as there has at least one amp blown up due to the tubes not being as advertised. The BHSE will ship with the new production Mullards so they should tide you over. I do somehow doubt that they will even be unboxed when I get my BHSE...

 

[Ricey20]

Hmm, whats a good tube tester thats not too expensive Spritzer? Kind of afraid now, have to test mine!

 

[spritzer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ricey20 /img/forum/go_quote.gif Hmm, whats a good tube tester thats not too expensive Spritzer? Kind of afraid now, have to test mine!

There are two options really, tube checker and a tube tester. The checker only verifies if the tube is working or not depending on a set of fixed tests while the tester measures the tube and is a lot more complicated i.e. more expensive. Your best bet would be to prowl ebay for something in your pricerange and then google it to see if there are any impressions. There is also a new alternative for 600$ and there was a thread on it here

 

[Deadneddz]

Well, it looks like Justin is ready for deposits on the 2nd run of the KGBH SE on the order page of his website.

Just made a deposit for the KGBH SE w/Alps RK50 upgrade.

Wow, my O2s are quivering in their case with anticipation!

I wonder how many he will be building for the 2nd run? anyone else going in?

 

[vcoheda]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Deadneddz /img/forum/go_quote.gif Just made a deposit for the KGBH SE w/Alps RK50 upgrade.