Circuit breakdown/getting started amp building

[gybe!]

I have toyed with amp building forever and currently am in a position to do so, but I am trying to chart my best path so am looking for advice/feedback from those that have done it before.

I have exposure to basic circuits (from undergrad physics courses, not EE; have done some basic troubleshooting beyond that), can follow a schematic generally, can solder, have built a few pedal kits, but am lacking the actual connection and understanding of the practical application of what is happening at a circuit to the impact. Said another way, I built some pedals but that was assembly and I couldn’t tell you what any of it did…

Is there any resource that goes through a circuit, of say a Plexi or the like, and actually addresses what is going on from a practical level? What is a slope resistor and what does it do? What is the impact of this coupling cap? Etc?

I am hesitant to just buy and assemble a kit as I’m weary of not actually learning much. I also don’t particularly want to start at the age old recommendation of an AX84 as I don’t find that interesting and recognize I won’t be as motivated to complete it…

 

[fusedbrain]

This might help:

https://www.ampbooks.com/mobile/classic-circuits/

I'm posting this from my phone, so that might explain the "mobile" in the link I copied/ pasted.
Or just Google ampbooks.com

Maybe have a look at the tutorials there as well.


This site is also good:
https://www.valvewizard.co.uk/

 

[ChurchHill]

There were a few that helped me get a grip on what's going on inside that magic black box. Can't say I agree with everything in all of these, but they did help build a foundation of understanding. I'm no expert, though.

Aspen Pittman - The Tube Amp Book
Kevin O'Connor - The Ultimate Tone Series (6 volumes, but 1-3 are the ones I remember most)
Gerald Weber - Desktop Reference of Hip Vintage Guitar Amps, Tube Guitar Amplifier Essentials, All About Vacuum Tube Guitar Amplifiers

For eye-watering analysis, check out Richard Kuehnel. His book on the 5F6A Bassman circuit isn't far removed from a Plexi.

Many, many others...

 

[manfifi]

If you really want to understand the circuits, check out Merlin Blencowe's books (Designing Tube Preamps for Guitar and Bass). It's probably the best modern explanation of guitar preamp stages.

Tutuapp ​