Spud_Kit

The Spud_Kit

     The Spud_Kit is a complete two channel valve amplifier in kit form. Using a singled-ended pentode (6CL6 / 6197), the amp is capable of about 2 to 3 watts per channel into an 8 ohm load. The amplifier features a volume control and can be driven directly from a standard (2 volts or greater) line level output from your source.

     Included with the kit are all parts necessary to build the amplifier, a schematic and a complete tutorial on CD ROM to assist new kit builders with this very simple project. The tutorial is geared towards the first time or inexperienced kit builder, but the project is fun for builders at all levels of experience. In addition to step-by-step instructions, the tutorial CD includes over 100 high resolution pictures of an actual Spud_Kit being built.

     Once built, this amplifier will be happiest when mated with a pair of high efficiency speakers such as the Hawthorne Audio Silver Iris.  Many kit builders actually felt that the project was worth the price paid simply for the experience they gained and the pride they felt when they powered it up for the first time.  However, the surprisingly detailed and accurate sound offered by the Spud_Kit is the real source of continuing satisfaction.  The Spud_Kit excels at delivering the human voice in a clear and articulate manner.  Additionally, many listeners have commented on the expansive sound stage and impressive separation of instruments. 

Notable:

• The Spud_Kit is amazingly quiet with virtually no audible hum.  This is due, in part, to the rectified and filtered filament supply.
• The 1st production Spud_Kit (built for the tutorial) was sent out on the road back in April, 2007.  The idea was to give forum members the opportunity to audition the amp in their own homes and with their own associated equipment.  The feedback from this audition tour was (and continues to be) overwhelmingly positive.  See the forum for details.
• The goal of the Spud_Kit project was to provide an affordable tube amplifier kit that could be easily constructed by a first time builder and provide pretty good sound quality.  The kit has surpassed the original design goal and actually provides excellent sound quality.
• The original design for this kit was conceived by Jef Larson.  It is with Jef's kind assistance and permission that his original work has been reincarnated in the Spud_Kit.

     The Spud_Kit is now available for most destinations worldwide.  Shipping options for domestic and international orders are available in the shopping cart (please note that the shipping charge for international orders includes a world voltage compatible power transformer).  Although most kits are packaged and sent within days of your order being placed, please allow approximately two weeks for your kit to ship.  Check out the forum and the shopping cart for additional details on this kit.

Here we have the original prototype (back) and the 1st kit made from production parts (front).  Although the kit is now supplied with a Poplar base, both pictures are accurate representations of how the finished product can look depending on the finish chosen by the builder.

The tubes glow beautifully with plenty of orange and violet light to softly illuminate your listening environment.

The Spud_Kit is comprised entirely of new (or NOS) parts.  The parts provided are high quality and should provide reliable service for many years.

The Spud_Kit is built on an aluminum chassis and enclosed in a Poplar base.  The chassis and base were designed to provide: a sturdy surface for construction, an appropriate surface for the application of a high quality finish, and an ergonomic and intuitive "back panel" for traditional input, output and power connections.  The chassis is roomy and well ventilated with a retro aesthetic that suits this little wonder perfectly.