Adding an effects loop

[ratherdashing]

Question for amp builders/repair dudes:

How difficult is it to add an effects loop (a send jack and a return jack, basic series loop) to an amp that doesn't have one?

Is there a operational/tone related reason why this would be a bad idea?

Is it something that anyone with a soldering iron and basic electronics skills can accomplish?

Thanks.

 

[Scott_F]

Re: Adding an effects loop

I think Torres sells a kit. If you have the real estate, put in another 12AX7 to buffer the loop. It's the better to have the tube than not to, but its not essential.

What amp?

You have to figure where the signal leaves the preamp and goes into the power amp section.

 

[Snake Aces]

Re: Adding an effects loop

I wish I understood more about electronics... My AVT leaves a lot to be desired but my budget does not allow me to purchase a tube amp.

If only I knew how to build one...

 

[ratherdashing]

Re: Adding an effects loop

I think Torres sells a kit. If you have the real estate, put in another 12AX7 to buffer the loop. It's the better to have the tube than not to, but its not essential.

What amp?

You have to figure where the signal leaves the preamp and goes into the power amp section.

The example I was thinking of was a Fender Blues Jr., but I was asking as more of a general question since a lot of the amps I like don't have effects loops (which I need).

 

[greco]

Re: Adding an effects loop

I wish I understood more about electronics...
If only I knew how to build one...

Why not consider starting with a tube amp kit?

Do a search (this forum or Google) and pick the price point, level of difficulty, features, etc. that appeals to you.

Dave

 

[Snake Aces]

Re: Adding an effects loop

I was unaware those even existed... will do

I may not have the money but I got the time...

Besides I figured out how to do set-ups on my own so how hard can it be with patience?

 

[greco]

Re: Adding an effects loop

SnakeAaces:

Have a look at this

http://www.missionamps.com


for starters.

Dave

 

[Snake Aces]

Re: Adding an effects loop

Wow that's sweet. Decently priced too depending on how they sound when done. Thanks a lot for the tip Dave!

 

[greco]

Re: Adding an effects loop

SnakeAces
You might want to start a thread here with a title something like:

"Building first tube amp...need help/suggestions"

Then explain the size, (i.e., power), features (tone stack/controls, reverb, etc) and price point that you are considering. You should get a lot of good responses.

Something to think about if you are really interested in building your own amp.

PLEASE be aware of the dangers of high voltages/current that are involved. You can always build it and then take it to an amp tech. to have it checked, biased and fired up gradually using a Variac* (*variable AC supply...expensive).

Good Luck

ratherdashing: Sorry about the hijack, bro.


Dave

 

[Scott_F]

Re: Adding an effects loop

kits are great fun. Mission is by far the best combination of support, parts quality and tone I've ever run across. They are a little bit more in the price department, but it's worth it. Especially if its your first build. Bruce will do a great job of helping out over the phone if you run into trouble. He also gives you a link to a private website where he hosts a buttload of photos of the build in steps.

Don't expect a written manual on the build. You simply look at the layout and make your efforts match exactly. Great reward. I fired up another amp just the other night. I can't tell you what a rush it is to play through a gizmo that you made from scratch.