Best way to learn to read and understand a schematic

[LeftyStrat]

Almost forgot about this one, NEETS (Naval Electrical Engineering Training Series). It's free online:

http://electriciantraining.tpub.com

[Reeltarded]

I learned how to read a schematic by owning a very similar amp looking at a layout and following it in all dimensions. The paperwork meant very little but the amp/layout/schematic totally made sense really fast.

[statorvane]

Here's a simple on-line resource that explains pretty basic electrical concepts: http://www.ampbooks.com/home/tutorials/lesson-001/

Hope this helps.

[Picker]

Agreed. This forum is awesome. I also consider myself a noob, but have built an Express and a Champ so far. I think it will be a long time before I 'graduate' out of noobhood and can understand the design aspects and what all of the parts are actually doing. For right now I can follow instructions well, but there is still an element of magic to me about the whole thing. I would not be able to design an amp from scratch or even successfully modify an amp without a great deal of difficulty.

My suggestions:

1. Learn SAFETY procedures first and always follow them.
2. Read everything you can get your hands on.
3. Ask lots of questions here on the forum.
4. Experiment - by which I mean try building something. I started with the Champ and it was a good experience. Simple circuit and a good "beginner" amp. The Express is also a relatively simple circuit, but is very touchy and easy to get things wrong. Luckily for me, with the experience I already had, and help from the forum, I was able to complete the build successfully.
5. Ask more questions. During my build of the Express especially, I had a running thread where I posted pictures asked questions, worked some more, asked more questions. This really helped me to keep moving forward and learn as I went.

I have discovered that the one problem with amp building is it that it is REALLY addictive. As soon as you get through one build you can't stop thinking about the next one.

Be safe, enjoy, and learn learn learn.