[Czilla9000]

Hi, I have been out of the high-fi DIY loop for a while (about 3 weeks). Anything new I should know?

Anyway, (if I can remember how you guys told me to solder) I want to try to build a passive transformer based headamp. I really want to try to legitimize passive headamps. Transformers seem like the way to go, compared to resistive based passamps. Any suggestions?


Thanks guys.

 

[Jupiter]

I assume you've considered the pros and cons, so what about this: http://www.diyhifisupply.com/diy_kits/django.htm

 

[Czilla9000]

What cons are there to using a transformer?

 

[Jupiter]

I meant pros and cons of using a passive volume control instead of an amplifier.

 

[radrd]

Quote:

I meant pros and cons of using a passive volume control instead of an amplifier.

I think we have had quite enough of that in the amp forum.

 

[Wodgy]

Quote:

Originally posted by Czilla9000 What cons are there to using a transformer?

From Kevin Gilmore's "Rules of Proper Audio Design":
2. Transformers in the audio signal path are even worse [than capacitors]: non-linearities in the gain structure, parasitic capacitance between windings, impedance problems.... Transformers belong in linear power supplies and nowhere else.

 

[Tomo]

Hey,

I think I need "active" headphone drivers. I need clean voltage gain and clean current gain. And, tranny by itself would not do either well.

However, I would not go as far as "tranny is no-no." If used correctly, tranny can sound good. In fact, I think tranny offers extra dimensions to possibility to design. ie. Tranny can double as inductive load + impedance correction which makes SESS possible.

I think this whole tranny thing is pretty cool.

T

 

[taoster]

Tomo, not sure why.. but when i saw your avatar i had an urge to animate it. mm.. here it is

 

[jasonhanjk]

Hahahahahaha!!!

 

[rickcr42]

Quote:

What cons are there to using a transformer?

cost , good transformers are not cheap

 

[Tomo]

Hum ...

Supposedly my avatar is a forest spirit. It is a sign of a rich forestation. I am really only few inches high and almost transparent.

**

Anyways, Hammond sells very affordable output trannies. They are supposedly pretty good.

T

** reference to Mononoke Princess. Neato movie, but not for little ones. Some violence. People die; doggies die; some bloody scenes. On top of that, Agent Scully really does a bad voice job. I was emotionally scarred by her bad voice acting. Subtitles ... seems light years better. ...

 

[rickcr42]

edcor is also reasonable in price though no match for the jensens,lundahls,etc.