Who Could Build Me a Vibro Champ?

[markesquire]

This is my first post here. I've never built an amp, and have considered it but I want some modifications that would complicate a first build.

I'd like a Vibro Champ with a few upgrades and modifications: (1) absolutely zero noise and hum; (2) different caps for deeper and slower tremolo; (3) larger transformers to accommodate 6V6 or 6L6, 8 ohm speakers, and improved headroom and bass response (the Victoria 518 apparently uses their tweed Super transformers for this purpose); and (4) a switch or other method of going from BF to tweed tones.

- What would you suggest in order to achieve each of those goals?

- Who could build me such an amp?

- How much would it cost?

[xtian]

There are plenty of builders here who could work with you. Perhaps you could reduce the pool by saying where you live? I'm in Chico, CA.

Do you want a head or a combo? If combo, what size speaker?

Do you have a budget? On the high end, you can have a custom cabinet built. Middle ground: buy a premade cabinet. Low end: repurpose a used cabinet.

The secret to quiet SE builds is a PI filter.

Transformer and voltage choices will determine output wattage. What's your target?

[johnnyreece]

Agree with xtian- lot of variables here. And keep in mind, if you're playing with single coils, dead quiet goes right out the window. The cost will almost certainly be more than just buying a stock Fender. Only saying that because some people think you can get an amp built for cheaper than production, and that's very rarely the case. Not accusing you of being one of those people; just stating it in case you don't know. Best of luck! Sounds like you have a good idea of what you want, and that's half the battle!

[Phil_S]

I'd like a Vibro Champ with a few upgrades and modifications: (1) absolutely zero noise and hum...

This requirement is going to be off-putting. We all strive for the minimum amount of noise and hum. It's what we do, but it doesn't always work out that way. You've asked for a one-off build for which there is no existing schematic or layout. It's a lot to expect. The builder will want to get paid.

[markesquire]

Thank you for your responses. I am in the Phoenix area.

I would want the Vibro Champ to look like a replica, most of the parts could come from the Mojotone Vibro Champ kit. I'd use the vintage sized cabinet with either an 8" Jupiter 8sc or maybe 10" speaker inside.

I know that all amps will have some noise, but I also know that there are certain components that might reduce it as much as possible. That's what I'm after. Basically, just the Mojotone Vibro Champ kit, but with some substitutions (transformers, lower noise components, slower/deeper tremolo, tone stack lift).

[Yoda]

I think you’re on the right track with taking the existing VC kit and modifying it with parts of your choosing. Overall what you’re asking for is very doable but I would say probably 95% of builders out there cannot guarantee you a super quiet and noise-free amp because there just has to be some noise floor no matter what in my opinion.

A tone stack bypass switch provides a passable “tweed” switch by providing a raunchy gain increase and eliminating the mid-scoop of the BF/SF amp personality.

Using all metal-film resistors is one way others have reported building ultra-quiet amps. I have a JCM 800 build in progress that I will use all MF resistors to see for myself.

[xtian]

I disagree about the noise-free potential. Single-ended amps benefit greatly from a CLC, or "Pi", first filter stage. I have built a few 5-watt SE amps that are whisper quiet at idle.

I think 10" a speaker is the way to go. Personally, I don't care for 8" speakers.

[Colossal]

I disagree about the noise-free potential. Single-ended amps benefit greatly from a CLC, or "Pi", first filter stage. I have built a few 5-watt SE amps that are whisper quiet at idle.

Same here. CLC filter on a single ended amp results in a VERY quiet amp at idle.

I think 10" a speaker is the way to go. Personally, I don't care for 8" speakers.

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