First Express Build

[casey73]

Hi all,

I'm fairly new on this forum, but not new to amp builds. I did build a nice AC30 Top Boost clone 10+ years ago, but that's as close to a "wreck" build that I've come.

I want to build an Express clone, for 6V6 only. I've looked at all the various schematics out there, and decided a Hammond 272BX would be more than adequate for the PT and a Hammond drop in replacement for a Fender Deluxe OPT, the 1760H would suffice for to OT. The Hammond version has multiple output taps, whereas the Fender replacement tranny only has the 8 ohm tap.

On many of the schematics out there the Hammond 1650H is recommend for an OP tranny. I'm thinking for the 6V6 application only, that is a bit of overkill.

So my question to those experienced in Express builds is, are my transformers of choice ill advised or can I expect to get something close to a Trainwreck tone with them?

[M Fowler]

Casey,

I think what you're doing is right getting the PT and OT that you need for lower wattage 6V6 Express version even though the regular Express can use 6V6 tubes it's damn loud.

I built an Express combo using the Magnet Components 40-18088 4k 40watt OT into 2,4,8 ohms. Still darn loud. Used JTM 45 PT Magnetic Component brand.

Going with Fender Deluxe 22w range PT/OT should get you what you want. Keep the OT at around 6k-6k6 range.

Mark

[casey73]

Mark -

Thanks for the feedback. I'll forge ahead. I don't have a need for high power, so I want to stick with the 6V6. I've used the JJ 6V6 in my modified Princeton (beefed up PT and OT) that can also run 6L6s. The jj 6V6 is rugged and has no problem with plate voltage at 410. The plates look more like a 6L6, which is why I think they hold up so well under higher voltages.

By the way, we had a yellow lab for 10+ years who we often called "Maggie dog" who passed a few years ago. Took a while before we were ready, but we eventually got a Wheaten Terrier we named Jessie. Her coat is a bit high maintenance, but she is a sweetheart.

Casey

[M Fowler]

Casey,

Thanks for your dog story we are a bunch of dog lovers on this site. I have another dog a Jack Russel Terrier named Griffin he is also black and white like Petey (Rat Terrier) and 1 year younger.

I use the JJ 6V6's as well. Not sure what voltages your going after the usual 600VCT but with lower mA rating to keep wattage around 22. Lot of good transformers out there to try.

Mark

[casey73]

The presence control is separated by a little extra space from the other knobs on the panel. Is this purely for aesthetics, staying true to the original or is there a functional purpose, i.e., reducing chance of feedback/oscillation?

[vibratoking]

This is posted in the wrong place and should be moved to the Trainwreck Discussion section.