DIY Audiophile Tube Amplifier (6V6GT)

Warning: Building and testing electronic circuits, including tube amplifiers, can be dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. High voltage components such as tubes and capacitors can store dangerous levels of electrical charge even after the circuit has been disconnected from the power supply. Improper handling of these components can result in electric shock, burns, or other injuries. 

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or instruction. The author and publisher make no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, with respect to the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of the information contained herein, and assume no liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions that may appear. 


Single-ended tube 6V6GT mono amplifier 
(Power output of approximately 5 watts) 

Materials: 
12AX7 tube x1 
6V6GT tube x1 
5Y3GT tube x1 
1.5k ohm resistor x1 
10uF capacitor x1 
20uF capacitor x1 
100uF capacitor x1 
250V DC power supply x1 
8 ohm speaker x1 

Instructions: 
1. 1.5k ohm resistor <> 12AX7 plate 
2. 10uF capacitor<> 6V6GT cathode 
3. 20uF capacitor <> 6V6GT plate 
4. 100uF capacitor <> 5Y3GT cathode 
5. 250V DC power supply <> 12AX7, 6V6GT, and 5Y3GTanodes 
6. 6V6GTanode <> speaker 
7. 5Y3GTcathode <> ground 
8. input signal <> 12AX7 grid 


The single-ended tube amplifier described is a relatively simple circuit that uses a 12AX7 tube as a voltage amplifier, a 6V6GT tube as a power amplifier, and a 5Y3GT tube as a rectifier. The circuit is designed to produce a warm, vintage sound that is ideal for small spaces and music enthusiasts who appreciate the character and richness of tube amplifiers. 

The 1.5k ohm resistor on the plate of the 12AX7 tube provides a load for the tube and helps to control the gain of the amplifier. The 10uF capacitor on the cathode of the 6V6GT tube helps to stabilize the amplifier and provides some additional gain. The 20uF capacitor on the plate of the 6V6GT tube helps to filter out any unwanted noise or distortion, while the 100uF capacitor on the cathode of the 5Y3GT tube helps to smooth out the rectified AC signal. 

The amplifier has a relatively low output impedance, which means that it works well with low-impedance speakers such as the 8 ohm speaker used in this circuit. The 250V DC power supply provides the necessary voltage and current to power the tubes and produce the desired sound. 

It is important to note, however, that working with high-voltage components such as tubes and capacitors can be dangerous, and it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional or experienced hobbyist when building and testing the circuit.