[Adinoto]

Hi Jim,
I got the idea that might interest you to develope a kind of new half kit...
How about a tube module kit that consist one 9pin tube and basic component around it ie. grid resistor, cathode resistor and bypass cap, plate load resistor, coupling cap and load resistor.
It has the flexibility by changing those component values :
- single stage pre or 2 of them can be phono pre with RIAA insert between them.
- configure as cathode follower for buffer or upgrade a CD player output stage..
- Connect the two triode in some kind (B+ jumpered to cathode of another triode) of SRPP stage
- even as a driver and splitter stage for PP amp..
- the tube selection flexibility 12A..7 family 6DJ8 (with different filament config)..
Etc...
It might be interesting for experimenter and upgrade, or as an entry point to DIY tube world
You could use your experties in developing good PCB, and maybe also develope a power supply board for it...
Just my idea... i think it would sell very good like Buggle  aa

Regards
Adinoto

[hagtech]

Thanks.  I'll put it on the list.  Of course, folks will want an octal version too.  Don't other companies already make something like this?   

For me, it's all about added value.  It's coming up with a working design for you through prototyping and other experiments.  If I don't add any "value" to the design, it's not worth much.  It's just a hookup board.

jh

[dnewman]

There is John Broksie's Aikido line: Aikido Amplifier 9-Pin stereo board,
octal board, etc. http://glass-ware.stores.yahoo.net/newhardware.html.
They aren't completely generic: they do assume a basic topology of
symmetrical triodes and socket pin outs.  But you can certainly experiment
with a lot of tubes within the topology.  (See the table at the end of the
user guides; e.g., http://www.tubecad.com/Nine-Pin_Aikido_PCB.pdf .)

I've never used these myself nor heard them.

Dan