Another "Wire" comes to life:
Figured I should finally build this one and get Owen some feedback before the next release. I was hoping to post a finished amp with case work and all, but, I misjudged the completely massive size of the utterly ridiculous attenuator solution I am employing. Yep, the case I bought is not tall enough, DOH!!
Oh well, instead it remains a work in progress. In any case, she lives! This is my third build with SMD and I forgot how much a PITA it can be working with components this small.
I am not kidding, this is the densest SMD build I have attempted yet. I would take a different build tactic next time. It is a bit sloppy, but, acceptable. The amp itself worked first time powered up. I had an issue with an unsoldered side of R15 on the power supply that prevented adjustment of the -15 rail, but, that was a quick fix. From there on, it was smooth sailing.
Since I do not have a balanced source (yet), this one is build single-ended with a gain of 2. This worked out well as I really wanted to try out the Khozmo stepped attenuator. Yes, in this situation, it seems completely overkill (and it is), but why not? Life's short. I really like the Khozmo. The additional steps make a big difference.
The sound is very nice. Extremely sensitive. You will have to pay particular attention to layout and casing to control pickup of noise. I had to move a few things around to get things totally quiet. Even then, any flaws with the source are picked up, so, be warned. Proper layout and casing will go along way with this build.
I have to spend some more time with it, but early impressions are quite positive. The highs are clear and extended, the bass extremely deep and very, very much in control. It steps out of the way and lets the source come through nicely.
BTW, in this last pic, the amp is on top of my State of Florida Drivers License. Yes, it is THAT small!!
