Zenith Phonograph converted to 18Watt Head... Suggestions for next build?

[bluesbreaker18]

I have been given 2 old Zenith phonograph chassis (circa 1960), stuffed with the original OT, PT, rect, tubes, etc... I was able to successfully convert one of them into a single channel 18Watt (lite) head, using very few additional components.

I've posted some photos and info on the process here:
http://music-electronics-forum.com/album.php?albumid=31

I'm not sure what I want to do with the 2nd chassis. Another 18watt build would be fun, but I'm just curious about other nice amps that might be possible.

[stingray_65]

i converted a little zenith portable phonogragh into a small bedroom amp

my boy was playing it tonight and I thought the sound was very mellow almost jazzy

i believe the chassis# is z106a

uses a 12ax7 and 2 50c5 in P-P

we really got a kick out of covering the cab in denim and used a hank of clothes line for a handle

I really can't believe how much he uses this amp as compared to the 5E3, but his reply was "It fits in my locker at school"

[tubeswell]

Hey stingray - that's a cool little amp

[stingray_65]

thanks tubeswell!

oh and bluesbreaker,

I missed the lower half of your link. that is an AWSOME build!

I really love recycling a piece of equipment that no one thought was usefull into something some one treasures.

as far as suggestions for your next build, build what YOU want.

when I get a new chassis full of goodies like that I start with the Iron.

find out the parameters of the power supply. remove all the components, leave in the trannys and sockets, and a filter cap, and measure the voltages. maybe even swap in a few different rectifier tubes.

next I find the parameters of the output Xformer.

http://www.radioremembered.org/outimp.htm


this will give you LOTS of useful information as to the possibilities.

sometimes I build clones of fenders, marshalls and hiwatts.

other times I look for more unusual designs,

still other times I'll refurbish the chassis and do a direct conversion.

those Zeniths have a sound all thier own, and Its pretty sweet too!

your only limit is your budget!