Power up a Rocket check list

[Macshaft]

I started my build as a Vox-AC30 clone , then decided to build a Rocket . I am using Hammond PT 290MX - 275/275 @ 200mA. Hammond 1750V OT 4000 ohm CT. and the 194E choke 30H 100mA. I expect approx 370v B1 355v b2 300v B3 286v B4 and 273v on B5 . I have also altered the tanks to 68uF first - 44uF second - 33uF third - and 20uF for both B4 & B5 . Can anyone comment on this ( Voltages not too high?? ) before I power this puppy up

[Zippy]

Well, you've got my curiosity - what is the internal layout? Why? Is there something in particular that inspired this arrangement? From the outside, it looks like you might really have built yourself into a corner.

That's not to say it won't work, I just wonder what the noise level will be.

[Macshaft]

These are actually Hammond "Classic Tube" replacement components for the Vintage Vox AC-30 . I thought they would be perfect for my build , as the Rocket and Liverpool are loosley based on the AC30 . I had already started this build in a smaller chassis(16x8x2) when I changed my mind to a rocket. My layout is awful , but I plan on reworking both the Main and power supply boards . Right now , I`m a little apprehensive on powering up and wanted some feedback on these voltages . everything else besides trannies and filters are as per Mark`s A0 "rocket" dwg.

['67_Plexi]

Well, you've got my curiosity - what is the internal layout? Why? Is there something in particular that inspired this arrangement? From the outside, it looks like you might really have built yourself into a corner.

That's not to say it won't work, I just wonder what the noise level will be.

The original TW's are not exactly the greatest layout either so you're in good Company and Ken made it work really well.

I love it when someone gets inspired, it shows spirit of adventure !!

Build an amp that makes a shit load of noise that you have to fix is a great learning excersise. Seriously. I rebuilt an old AC-30 when I was 15 and you couldn't imagine the horrible noises that thing made. I sure learned a lot from it though. Beats the paint by numbers approach (thats if you want to learn)

[jelle]

That is about the best advice you can give a person!

Experiment and learn.

[Macshaft]

Well , My chassis looks like s__t now , but what huge difference in the noise level from my first layout attempt . I moved my V1 tube away from the front so I could squeeze a 6" x 2 1/2" main board in behind the pots . Cleaned up the ground leads with CT - AC and 1 - 2nd stage PS caps on ground #1 . Main board , 3rd 4th and 5th PS ,pot ground buss on ground #2 and Cathode resistor on seperate ground #3 . I also got rid of the PS board and just potted the caps to the chassis .
When I powered her up I was shocked how quiet it is compared to my first attempt . I should not have tried my own layout on a first attempt . Tone is really nice , very touch sensitive , and when you crank it up past about 11 oclock it just gets a beautiful warm overdrive that will bloom very nicely . A huge thanks to all the people here at TAG . Excellent resource . And a huge thanks to K.F. This amp sounds awsome .
V1 - RCA7025 V2 - Sovtek12AX7 V3 - tungsol 12AX7