VOX AC30 new PCB design

Vox and Hiwatt Discussion

Moderators: pompeiisneaks, Colossal

Post Reply
frusciante89
Posts: 107
Joined: Mon Mar 23, 2015 1:25 am

VOX AC30 new PCB design

Post by frusciante89 »

Hi all,
This is Andrea from AAElectronics (https://www.aaelectronicspcb.com/). After a lot of request, I've started design for a PCB for Vox AC30 style amps, with the aim to make it flexible enough to accommodate seevral variants (e.g., EF86 channel, Normal, the AC15 version or additional mods). I'll attach the layout, PCB, and schematic for reference.

Would love to get your input on my design, and whether you'd like to see/add something to the PCB/schematic.
Have a great weekend!
Andrea
AA Electronics

Image
Image
Last edited by frusciante89 on Sun Dec 01, 2024 11:41 am, edited 1 time in total.
User avatar
xtian
Posts: 7263
Joined: Mon Apr 19, 2010 8:15 pm
Location: Chico, CA
Contact:

Re: VOX AC30 new PCB design

Post by xtian »

First thing that pops into my mind is the cathode resistor, R67. AC30s are biased too hot for me, and this is a likely component swap, so make it easy to do--that would be a great place to add a couple turrets. And your component looks to be 1w...should be 5w or higher for safety, and a cement resistor is the most common choice, so you'll need a larger footprint.
I build and repair tube amps. http://amps.monkeymatic.com
User avatar
Colossal
Posts: 5205
Joined: Sat Oct 20, 2007 9:04 pm
Location: Moving through Kashmir

Re: VOX AC30 new PCB design

Post by Colossal »

+1 on Xtian's comment. Two smaller 100R resistors in parallel for 50R would be typical if space is an issue (and wanting stock bias, although it's really hot), or ideally something large that can dissipate some heat. 56 to 68R, even 82R would be suitable to not run the tubes at 138% of max dissipation.

On your schematic C6 and C10 are reversed. Bright channel is 500p and Normal is 0.047uF (47n).
frusciante89
Posts: 107
Joined: Mon Mar 23, 2015 1:25 am

Re: VOX AC30 new PCB design

Post by frusciante89 »

Thanks guys! Great suggestions! Do you feel that adding the tube rectification option will be a feature ppl might be interested in?
Also, I have seldom use Vox, so I'm under the impression the Top Boost is the holy grail, and the amp that this PCB should target. Any other variations on the circuit that you think might make sense to add?
Thanks in advance
User avatar
solderhead
Posts: 160
Joined: Thu Jan 16, 2025 5:42 pm

Re: VOX AC30 new PCB design

Post by solderhead »

I'm trying to view the images in post #1 and none of them are legible on my 4k display. What am I doing wrong?

Based upon the feedback that others have offered, I'm assuming that the images were legible at the time of their posts, but I also see that the first post was updated in december and now the images aren't legible. Can anyone help?
Better tone through mathematics.
frusciante89
Posts: 107
Joined: Mon Mar 23, 2015 1:25 am

Re: VOX AC30 new PCB design

Post by frusciante89 »

Hi guys! Quick update: finally finished this PCB and produced the first prototypes. I called it "The FOX30". It allows to build a 1:1 replica of the AC30, including the Top Boost mod, in a single compact platform (362 mmx 77mm) :D
You can check some pics below. It's now available on my website for anyone interested: https://www.aaelectronicspcb.com/produc ... ac30-style
You can consult all documentation (schematic and layout) for free

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image

Image
User avatar
stubbyfex
Posts: 51
Joined: Sat May 10, 2008 4:02 am
Location: Denver, CO
Contact:

Re: VOX AC30 new PCB design

Post by stubbyfex »

Nice Board! Good idea too.
I added a rotary switch on my AC30 build with three 25W Dale resistors mounted on the chassis. The switch can then add them in series to get different bias settings.
I think it was 100 ohm, 50 ohm and 25 ohm. Sometimes I want the Hot bias sound and other times I like it Cold!
Post Reply