[MBWD]

So the wife says I need a hobby.  In the past, my interpretation of that comment was "spend several months researching and buying a new component for your audio system." 

Well, the unlikely has happened and I am pretty happy with my system as is.  So, I was considering getting into the DIY world.  Does anyone have any suggestions of a good starter project and places to go from there? 

In my naive mind, I thought it might be nice to build a small tube amp for an office or other small room. 

I should note that I am no engineer, woodworker, or electrician.  Still, I'm willing to learn all of the above.

Thanks. - M.

[mgalusha]

The Hagerman 1/2 kits are very nice, great quality PCB's and excellent instructions. Throw in the fact that Jim Hagerman is one of the good guys in the audio business and it's hard to lose. He has a circle on this site.

The Bottlehead stuff is also easy to build and not overly expensive.

mike

[Scott F.]

I second what Mike said 

[andyr]

So the wife says I need a hobby.  In the past, my interpretation of that comment was "spend several months researching and buying a new component for your audio system." 

Well, the unlikely has happened and I am pretty happy with my system as is.  So, I was considering getting into the DIY world.  Does anyone have any suggestions of a good starter project and places to go from there? 

In my naive mind, I thought it might be nice to build a small tube amp for an office or other small room. 

I should note that I am no engineer, woodworker, or electrician.  Still, I'm willing to learn all of the above.

Thanks. - M.

Hey M,

Does your wife understand that "having a hobby (read: "having an obsession")" means coming to bed very late every night after she's gone to sleep?  Maybe she's trying to tell you something!!      

Seriously, go have a look at www.aksaonline.com ... and build one of Hugh Dean's amplifiers.  Yes, I'm biased because I've built 4 of them but you will find they deliver much more than your current amplifier!   

And it's a great "project".  Hugh's instructions have proved adequate for non-electronic-savvy builders so don't be concerned if you're a "newbie".  Once you listen to it, you'll realise you made a wise choice!     Then you'll probably spend some more money to build some more amps and go active - or his pre-amp ... all you need to do then is say to your wife "Well, honey ... you said get a hobby"!! 

Regards,

Andy