Red Roo SE5 Valve Amplifier Kit
Class-A Sound. The Red Roo SE5 valve amplifier kit is a small, high-grade, class-A design that can provide a five-watt RMS output to speakers or headphones.
The circuit uses a two-stage triode Constant Current Draw Amplifier (CCDA) that drives a single-ended (SE) EL34 output stage. You can set the EL34 output stage to work in triode, pentode, or ultra-linear modes, with ultra-linear being the best option for most users (unless you choose the audiophile upgrade, which is limited to triode or pentode modes only).
Easy to Build. The SE5 valve amplifier kit is straightforward to assemble. To make the process hassle-free, you can order the solderless kit, which comes with pre-assembled and tested PC boards. Alternatively, if you prefer building everything from scratch, you can order the full kit of parts and solder each component onto the PC boards yourself.
High Quality Components. The RedRoo SE5 valve amplifier kit features high-quality parts, such as audio-grade polycarbonate coupling capacitors, low ESR conductive polymer hybrid aluminium electrolytic cathode-bypass capacitors, gold pin tube sockets, and large output transformers for clear bass. The PC Boards are extra thick with 2-oz copper tracks, boosting durability and heat transfer.
Functionality. The front panel has a large solid metal volume knob and toggle switches for turning power on or off and choosing inputs, plus a 1/4-inch headphone jack. The rear panel has input connectors, speaker connectors, a speaker impedance switch, and a feedback on-off switch to let you enjoy sound without global negative feedback. You can switch between two sets of RCA inputs and a Bluetooth input for streaming from a phone or computer using the input selector toggle switch. A 3.5mm jack is provided on the second RCA input.
Audiophile Upgrade. You can opt for an audiophile upgrade for the SE5 valve amplifier kit, which includes audiophile-grade output transformers and Mundorf EVO or Auricap coupling capacitors. The upgrade significantly improves sound quality for those with premium speakers and sound sources. Note, the upgrade does not support ultra-linear mode (triode mode is often recommended for audiophiles).
Power Supply Design. Mains power does not enter the chassis. The unique power supply design, DC heaters, and earth-loop breaker help prevent power supply-induced hum or buzz from the speakers.
Take care, as the circuit contains potentially dangerous voltages up to 280V DC.
The SE5 dimensions are 185mm wide, 215mm deep, and 165mm high.
