This is the amplifier that brought me back to Single Ended Tube amplification. Elekit is a Japanese kit company that has been around for many years, and are known for offering high value kits. Well regarded by the DIY enthusiast in Japan, they are imported into the North American market by VK Music.
This is a Single Ended Pentode design capable of 8 wpc of output. Can auto bias to a wide variety of tubes. Will accept EL 34, 5881, KT 66, KT 88, and 6550. Pre-driver tube is a single 12AX7. Has two sets of inputs and 4 & 8 ohm output taps. Uses an advanced R-Core power transformer, which is quite unusual for a kit at this price.
Kit sells for $575, and I upgraded the transformer from the Japanese domestic 100v model to the 120V 60hz model needed for the US. This cost $90, and eliminates the need/cost for a step down transformer.
I also installed several upgrades into the amplifier. There is an ACME silver plated EIC terminal, which was a real bugger to get installed in the amp. But now aftermarket power cords can be used with the amp. The polystyrene coupling capacitors have been replaced by first generation Jupiter paper/wax capacitors. The warm romantic sound compliments the Elekit's voicing, and makes for a nice combination. These caps originally sold for about $120 for a set of 4. The stock electrolytic power supply caps have been disconnected, and replaced with a Mundorf Mylitic capacitor. This cap is huge, and needed to be relocated under the transformer cover, but makes a significant addition to the sound. The stock RCA input connectors have been replaced and hardwired into the amp, eliminating a circuit board that was previously used. All in all these parts added up to $210 in cost.
I will also include some upgraded tubes in this sale. The stock tube is an Electro Harmonix 6L6GC, which is a reproduction of the classic RCA tube. These tubes have minimal hours on them, basically like new. I also have a pair of RCA 6L6GC(not blackplates) and a pair of Sylvania 6LCGC. Both have a different presentation, although similar construction. The Sylvania has to die for mids, and the RCA is remarkably balanced. One Sylvania tube has the center pin missing, but I have marked where the pin lock position is. Very easy to get installed into the amp, just need to pay a bit of attention. Do not have boxes for these tubes.
The 12AX7 is run only at 6 volts, and this amp will accept any of teh 12a*7 family of tubes. They all sound different, and have different gain structures. I can include an RCA 12AX7, Mullard 12AX7, Sylvania 5751, and I might have one more tube I can toss in. The combination of vintage tubes I am offering with this amp also represent a significant financial outlay.
I assembled the amp kit, and had the guidance and help of an experienced AC DIY'er who lives a few minutes from me. Amp is in spec, and operates properly. There is one flaw in the build. When installing the Mundorf power supply capacitor, a trace hole lifted. This required moving the connection a 1/4" up the trace. Creates no operational issues--short or long term, just a learning mistake.
I eventually moved on to some Electra Print electronics, but they cost far more than this plucky little Elekit. I no longer have a use for it, so its time to find it a new home. Makes a great starter amp for someone looking to get into the low powered SE tube scene.
Have original box, and assembly instructions.
Original cost is
500 amp(costs have gone up on the current stock it appears)
90 for transformer
210 for upgrade parts
150 in tubes-hard to quantify this, may be a bit low.
Will sell the package for $500(including extra tubes) plus shipping. If using paypal please add 3% to cover their fees.
Can provide pictures on request.
Regards
Mister Pig
