[CButterworth]

I have gone through all the tests and set-up procedures according to Hugh's instructions.  I don't have the instructions in front of me, but there is a step, where the pots need to be adjusted to give 55mV in both L and R.

When setting this, I noticed that I could easily get a setting between 54.8 and 55.2, but that getting 55mV exactly was difficult, to make matters worse, it seemed to fluctuate slightly (maybe an effect of components warming).

What is the tolerance range of this setting?  Does it matter that L and R are not set at exactly 55mV, or that they may be within 0.5 mV of one another?

I am so impressed by the amp.  The instructions are clear and precise and Hugh has been so good at replying and answering questions.  Having previously made only battery-powered headphone amps and HAM radio  amps,  I was nervous at venturing into the "mains" supply electronic arena.  Phew, my first experience has been great.  I don't think that I could have chosen a better product than the AKSA 55, or a better guide than Hugh.


Thanks,
Charlie

[stvnharr]

Charlie,
You are doing well.   The bias will fluctuate a little.  It's nothing to worry about.

[AKSA]

Charlie,

You have an issue here with your DMM;  it is too expensive, too accurate!

Switch to a less sensitive range and use only 2 significant figure reading for the bias;  plus or minus two mV is actually quite sufficient.  There are changes to sonic presentation with different bias settings, but they are quite subtle around the chosen point of 55mV, and won't show up until its around 47mV and 70mV.

Congratulations on completing the assembly!  Have you done any listening yet?  Bear in mind it takes almost a week of 'burn-in';  capacitors and semis need a little time to deliver their best.

Thank you for your positive comments!  A testimonial in time, perhaps?

Cheers,

Hugh

[CButterworth]

Thanks Hugh for the reply.

I am so pleased to have completed the amp.  I really had no problems aside from my own lack of confidence about my abilities.  The chassis that you recommended is great and looks good.

On first playing, the amp sounded excellent, and I am sure that it will improve even more.  My speakers are relatively poor quality - I had to go out and buy new ones, and after reading a review on the 100 USD Sony 3-way speakers, I went with those.  They will be fine for the interim.

Once, I have played the amp for a while, I'll write a testimonial and take a few pics and send them.  Of course, I am also thinking of installing the Nirvana upgrade - I used the RCA's from the upgrade, although I think I'll wait a while before taking another plunge.

Regards,
Charlie