The result from making an electronic project is determined by how good the components you put them in. You can build with the cheapest components and the result mostly unsatisfying. Especially for the major components, one of them is the power transformer, I prefer using the high grade transformer that built for audio use.
Like in this Gainclone amplifier project, I will using the special hi-end encapsulate toroidal transformer salvage from the old Bang & Olufsen power amplifier. This toroidal transformer is very slim and of course it is in used condition. But for the transformer, I don't think they have the short lifespan. Maybe it can be use forever as long as it is working within it's limit.
This Gainclone amplifier is popular built for beginner because it made from the National Semiconductor IC. The Gaincard amplifier which is the original product of 47 labs using the same IC and it sound great based on the reviews I've read. This amplifier is simple, only using 9 components per channel and they sell it around US$3,000. It is very expensive but no wonder for the price of Japan handmade product.
Previously I already have another Gainclone amplifier, but I could not resist to built another one. Especially when I have this 160 VA special toroidal transformer taken from the Bang & Olufsen amplifier. This toroidal is heavy with sealed encapsulated cover to eliminate unwanted noise escape from this transformer. As you can see from the photo, the height of this toroidal transformer is quite shallow. It is suitable for the small amplifier casing like I am using here.
To be honest, my first amplifier layout didn't work really well. What I learnt from this built is I didn't use enough capacitor for DC filter and the position of rectifier diodes very close to IC's. This cause the interfere from the rectifier to the power amplifier IC's.
This Gainclone amplifier is all finish. Then I order to my friend, the front panel that he made it using Oak wood. The finish is very nice. This panel makes this Gainclone amplifier looks more elegance.
Disclaimer: Any statement and photos in this article are not allowed to copy or publish without written permission from the writer. Any injury or loss from following tips in this article is not under writer responsibility.
Because of this Gaincard amplifier story, then someone on the internet has open the original Gaincard and inspect the components inside it. The clone is now become very popular since it is easy to make. They called it a Gainclone amplifier. A clone from the original Gaincard amplifier.
The IC use in this Gainclone amplifier is LM3875 that cost me US$7 each. We need 2 for stereo of course. The total cost to make this Gainclone amplifier is depends on how much you want to spend with the others components. Mostly the estimate cost in building this Gainclone amplifier, using a nice amplifier casing, a good toroidal transformer like this, you might spent at least US$200.
Previously I already have another Gainclone amplifier, but I could not resist to built another one. Especially when I have this 160 VA special toroidal transformer taken from the Bang & Olufsen amplifier. This toroidal is heavy with sealed encapsulated cover to eliminate unwanted noise escape from this transformer. As you can see from the photo, the height of this toroidal transformer is quite shallow. It is suitable for the small amplifier casing like I am using here.
To be honest, my first amplifier layout didn't work really well. What I learnt from this built is I didn't use enough capacitor for DC filter and the position of rectifier diodes very close to IC's. This cause the interfere from the rectifier to the power amplifier IC's.
Although the first layout is the most simple layout of this Gainclone amplifier that I've ever made, but I should re-work all the components again just because of the hum noise from the speakers when this amplifier idling.
The second layout is more complex. I taken away the rectifier far from the IC's. They are now place behind the toroidal transformer. This method is 100% works well and completely silent when idling.
Anyway, should I mention how is the sound quality?
This LM3887 Gainclone amplifier sound very dynamic. The sound-stage presentation is wide. The details are rich, especially on mid-range to treble. The vocals, it is not too forward, also not too laid back. It is right in the center of the instruments. The vocal is not warm but not analytical as well. It is just balance, it is a natural sound presentation.
Spending this little amount to build the amplifier like this, with this high quality sound is worth so much.
Disclaimer: Any statement and photos in this article are not allowed to copy or publish without written permission from the writer. Any injury or loss from following tips in this article is not under writer responsibility.
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