I think I'm ready to build an Express ive

[daryllm]

Hello, I have been searching the posts and checking out the vendors websites for parts that are available to build a Twreck clone. I do have a few questions.
1) Is Ceriatone the only vendor available at this time to procure a chassis from?
2) Has anyone A/B'd the polypropylene caps and the orange drops? What were the results and which had the better tone or is this an individual taste.
3) Has anyone tried the components that are <1%> ?
4) Does the 6V6 Express have decent volume or would it be adviseable to go ahead and build the EL34 amp.
5) Has anyone tried the paper in oil caps and what were the results?

I have been repairing/ modding tube amps for friends and family for about 19 years and playing guitar for about 29 yrs. I was going to purchase another amp when I stumbled across your site. I decided it would be a lot more fun to build an amp then to buy an already assembled one. I was intrigued and am now excited to get underway. I welcome any and all input, thanks in advance.

[sliberty]

Allynmey here on AG sells chassis for the Express from time to time. PM him to see if any are available.

I have built an Express with Mallory 150's, and it sounds great. I have also built one with proper orange drops and it also sounds great. I have not done an A/B however.

My experience with 6V6's in the Express is that they don't really reduce the volume all that much. But remember - there is no difference in the amp. Just build an Express, and try each type of tube in it to see what you like better. You just have to swap tubes and rebias.

I can't imagine any benefit from 1% components.

Your mileage may vary.

Steve