DIY Amp Books

[kellar]

I am looking for a book about amp building, tube amps specifically. I remember a post quite a while back about a book that was considered the bible of amp building but I can't find the post. Anyone want to help me out here?

[tomjackson]

'The Guitar Amp Book' by Dave Hunter is very good for understanding how valve amps work.  I've not read it all yet (hence the daft questions in Tech) but it is a very good book none-the-less.  Other than that most kits will have instructions that take you through the build process (Guitar Amp Maker, Guitar Amp Builder etc).   It really depends on whether you want to understand from a practical, methodical put the peices together side of things or the theoretical how valve amps work side of things.  This book is the latter, albeit wothout the maths that would be required to actually design an amp.  But it definitely gives a good insight to the thinking behind the design of many classic amps, plus some great interviews with famous designers.

[Johnny Mac]

There was an electronics store on The Edgware Rd called Henry's that sold amp kits had lots of books. Not sure if he is still trading or on the net though.

[Oli]

2nd'ing 'The Guitar Amp Handbook', it's a great read- really interesting learning about the amps, and the photos are quite cool too, seeing how the construction and complexity of amps has changed over the years :)

[Dreichlift]

"The Ultimate Tone" by Kevin O'Connor is often referred to as the amp builders bible. You can buy it direct from Canada  at http://www.londonpower.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=3

Alternativley I got a copy in the UK from http://www.pearman-books.com/

I can't say for sure but I think if I'd ordered from the London Power I'd have got it faster. It's a great book, but you must have at least a good basic knowledge of electronics before you start reading. A bit expensive but considering the wealth of information contained in it I think it's worth it. I'll certainly be getting the rest of the series as and when I can.

[kellar]

Great. Thanks a lot guys! I am going to check those out.

I have been meaning to build an amp for some time now but it keeps getting put off. I am going to start out with a Fender Champ or something of that nature, maybe the 5F1 that Ceriatone has. They have the layouts and everything on their website.
Knowledge of electronics isn't a problem as I am an airplane mechanic by trade. Thanks again! :D

[Johnny Mac]

http://www.henrys.co.uk/shopinfo.htm


The place is still going strong. I used to go in here a lot as they had racks of electronics books and other educational stuff on sale for peanuts. Plus all the staff here are electronic boffins!

Anyway it looks as though you have a great book to order.  :D

[MrBump]

'The Guitar Amp Book' by Dave Hunter is very good for understanding how valve amps work.  I've not read it all yet (hence the daft questions in Tech) but it is a very good book none-the-less.  Other than that most kits will have instructions that take you through the build process (Guitar Amp Maker, Guitar Amp Builder etc).   It really depends on whether you want to understand from a practical, methodical put the peices together side of things or the theoretical how valve amps work side of things.  This book is the latter, albeit wothout the maths that would be required to actually design an amp.  But it definitely gives a good insight to the thinking behind the design of many classic amps, plus some great interviews with famous designers.

I have that book - keep starting it, then just get so confused with everything....