"Shortest Way" SW51 Amp Impressions (Simple SET Amp)

Further toobz digression.

Searching for this I found a nice tidy factory code summary.
https://www.effectrode.com/news/tube-enthusaist-tube-codes/

 

Dear friends.

On may 11, I started a new batch of amplifiers. I already have the main components, but I still need to buy some of them.
Production of this batch of amplifiers will take place in unusual and non-standard conditions. What does this mean:
- This will increase the production time.
- Logistics is formed according to non-standard schemes.
- Postal services informed that there will be a slight increase in the rates for forwarding. I don't know the new rates yet.
- Probably because of the isolation mode not everyone who wants to get an amplifier is in good financial shape.

But there is good news, the cost of the amplifier will not change and will be as usual $315

In such circumstances, I consider it best to take partial advance payments. This, in my opinion, will be optimal and fair.

Now the total cost with delivery is from $371 to $416 (depends on the recipient country)

I calculated that an advance payment of $200 and payment of the remaining amount before sending the amplifier will allow me to make this batch without much difficulty.

All those who ordered the amplifier will be sent emails with the content of this post. If someone doesn't get an email, please let me know.
In addition, it is still possible to order another 18 pieces of sw51 amplifiers. Link to the order

There are no changes for all those who ordered, paid for, and haven't received the amplifier yet.

 

When can we get @Zampotech on Zoom? I want to hear more stories about Russia and put diamonds on amps to make your penis size bigger than it really is. I have the resource.

 

Hi Zampotech,
Can you tell me if a 6K13P tube (EF183) is compatible with the SW51? What is the difference between the 6Z51P and the 6K13P??

 

If you're going to listen 8 hours over a 12 hour period, is it better to leave a tube amp on for 12 hours or turn it off an on a few times?

 

I'd say leave it on - unless the amp is on the edge of the design's thermal envelope (very hot, poor ventilation, etc.). SW51 is a very efficient design, so I wouldn't hesitate to leave it on for stretches.

 

SW51+ runs very cool for a tube amp. I leave it on 12 hours at a time when I'm home.

 

I've had stretches where my SW51+ has been on 16 hrs daily, switching between work use and recreational listening. Only issue was recreational listening became difficult to pull away from and go back to work mode.

 

Will leaving it on when not in use wear out the tubes faster?

 

Competing issues. Tube heaters are stressed every power on cycle. Tube heaters wear out over time when they are powered on.

My rule of thumb is to leave on if I intend to keep using throughout the day, though intermittently. When it is likely that I won't use the amp for at least eight hours, I turn it off. Also good to acquire a spare set of tubes for the inevitable failure, when you really enjoy a particular amp.

 

I didn't check. But I can say two things for sure:

1. tube replacement is safe
2. you will get a slightly different sound. The signature of these tubes is different.

 

If/when you get some, let us know how the 6K13P/EF183 sounds @Mordy. If they're any good, it'll put @msommers worries about "tube evaporation" at ease!

 

I'd love to try some - there are a host of different tubes available: EF85, 6EH7, 6F26 and several more. All these tubes can be found a low prices.
BUT, .....I have to get the amp first - don't know the time frame for delivery. Meanwhile I have at least five different tubes to try out from the EF184 family from Holland, Gt Britain, Germany, Russia and the US.

 

Apologize if it's already on the thread somewhere, but does anyone have a link to where one can buy the same or similar to stock tubes here in the US?

 

This seller is in the US, but unfortunately only has 1 left.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/312854385029
Edit: Lots of sellers in Eastern Europe. Buy 50 from this guy for $69.99 and open your own online store
https://www.ebay.com/itm/174064603025

 

If there was enough interest from US based SBAFers, I'd be willing to facilitate a group buy.

Anyone else interested in picking up a pair or three of these?

 

I stuck 2 layers of adhesive-backed 3mm 30 durometer rubber onto each foot. In addition to improved vibration damping, they stick the SW51+ to the shelf so I don't have to hold it to keep it from sliding while plug/unplugging cables. Double bonus!

One layer under Nano Patch+ feet also keeps it firmly in place.

 

Brief update: I enjoy SW51+ so thoroughly that I am contemplating acquiring a second amp. I'll wait until others have all had a chance at the latest production run. If @Zampotech posts about stock that hasn't been sold I'm in for another.

 

Two weeks ago there were 18 SW51 available out of a run of 34 - don't know the status of this run today.