Liverpool as first build

[a_e_a]

Hey guys,

I am a long time lurker around here and have read heaps of information.

I am thinking of building a liverpool as my first amp build. I have read numerous posts here and elsewhere saying that a trainwreck circuit is not a good idea for a first build.

I actually thought that it would be a good idea to start with something that will make me really think about lead dressing and help me learn how to find and fix hums and problems.

There seems to be to tonnes of information here and people seem willing enough to help so would I really be out of my depth attempting this?

Also I was wondering if someone had a photo of a build that was the 'perfect' wiring etc? Or one that would be a perfect example to copy from?
I have seen heaps of photos but would really like to be pointed to some that are the best to learn from.

Thanks for any help guys and thanks for all the information and posts I have read on this site. I have learned so much already!!

[RJ Guitars]

A_E_A,

Thanks for hanging out with us. You are correct that most folks will suggest a simpler amp than the Liverpool for a first build. The Trainwreck Rocket is the simplest and most forgiving of the Trainwreck circuits but still not really a first time suggestion.

Most of us will suggest a Fender Champ circuit for #1. They are really simple and actually quite useful. (You'll find more info on these in the technical discussion pages than the Trainwreck pages)

Study up and look for posts on simple amp designs then think about if you want to work from a kit or make a scratch build. You have a multitude of choices available for kits or parts and you'll find a lot of help here on the TAG forum.

rj

[Markusv]

AEA

The Liverpool was my second built ever
I did a simple single ended amp similar to a Champ first. While the Liverpool worked, it was a nightmare for about a year or so. I simply did not have the wiring skills and the discipline and experience necessary for a clean build. These amps are like your girlfriend on pms. Its easy to piss them off. Every joint, every wire counts. Looking at the Francesca picks for instance you would say:" looks simple enough- not a lot of wires" Believe me - it is deceiving

I ended up gutting and rebuilding the Liverpool twice. Settled her down and cleaned up a lot of mistakes. Now its like the girlfriend with no pms on Christmas day . its the gift that keeps on giving..
I am still sometimes surprised and awed when I play the first few chords or notes on it after a few days of not plugging in. Just hits you in the gut.

That said- you can start with a simpler build and still get addicted and then move on to the wreck

BTW
RJ is king. If you need parts he is a gentleman.
Just got a partial Liverpool kit from him. It's excellent!!

Markus V

[JamesHealey]

My first building experience was a restoration of a 69 plexi superbass. Then i made an 18w marshall. Both easy enough then started building tw's made 5 now and I'm only just getting them perfecti not easy to build.

[Gibsonman63]

Whatever you start with, do yourself a favor and get good soldering equipment if you don't already have it. Good equipment and good soldering skills are essential for a good result.

[fishy]

Welcome

Hey guys,

I actually thought that it would be a good idea to start with something that will make me really think about lead dressing and help me learn how to find and fix hums and problems.

Interesting perspective but many will say it is part of every build and building any amp is always an oppotunity to learn regardless of the simplicity or complexity of the design.

I love the Liverpool and as a rock amp it is wickedly good. Some will argue it is less versatile and you should consider what you want more than anything else. No point building an amp you can't use. Maybe a Rocket is a better option if you really want a TW. They sound great, are generally regarded as easier to get right and are very versatile.

Also I was wondering if someone had a photo of a build that was the 'perfect' wiring etc? Or one that would be a perfect example to copy from?
I have seen heaps of photos but would really like to be pointed to some that are the best to learn from.

I am not familiar with "Perfect" but the cleanest builds I have seen posted are from our very own administrator who is a reference point for me. Fantastic workmanship!
In all honesty though, most people can build a good looking amp but it does not mean it will sound any good. The cost associated with building the amp is usually enough for the builder to be careful during the build process. Tuning it is where it can become a challenge - i'm still working on both aspects and always will.

[paulster]

I think you can certainly build a Liverpool as a first build but only if you approach it from the right mindset.

They are really finicky and debugging can be a PITA, especially if you're not familiar with troubleshooting techniques.

If you approach it as a learning exercise and don't expect to fire it up and have it sounding glorious as soon as you tube it up then you've given yourself a great educational platform.

If you want a paint-by-numbers build and would find the troubleshooting frustrating then it's almost certainly not the build for you.

[a_e_a]

Thanks for the advice guys.

I guess I will start with a 5e3 to get going. I have found a lot of information for it and have had a lot of people say its a good first build.

Although I am really gasing for a TW I will be back after my first build. Thanks again and I really look forward to being back

[JamesHealey]

I think we scared him away?

[a_e_a]

Nah I am not scared away. My girlfriend told me not to be stupid and build the liverpool. (she's not too bad at keeping me honest) Haha. So in a way I got scared back...

I have been reading heaps for the past year about amps (dave hunters book, some kevin oconnor books, heaps of internet) although some stuff still goes over my head, I think I have made a start and need to be getting my hands dirty.

I do have a lot of spare time as gigs are my only income which gives me days free. So I will have a lot of time to dedicate to it.

Are there any Australian guys building or have built TW on the forum? If there is someone local (melbourne) I could get some help if I get majorly stuck that would be cool.

Im still deciding which way to go but I am leaning toward the 'pool.

Anyway Ill be deciding soon and hopefully be started in the next week or too.

Thanks again guys!