Classic-Sounds New Mullard 3-3 Power Amplifier – First Look
All Image Credit: Classic-Sounds
Classic-Sounds is a part of the UK company, Primary Windings Ltd. who are well known for their manufacture of transformers and chokes. Their sister company Classic-Sounds has been launched and as their first product have released a classic stereo Class A tube power amplifier design from the 50’s and 60’s era, the Mullard 3-3 power amplifier.
This classic design is available as either a fully hand-built and tested product or for those DIY’ers amongst us can be purchased as a kit.
The Mullard 3-3 power amplifier is a true, classic, single ended Class A EL84 3.5W design from the 60’s that uses DC coupling between its input and output stages. According to Classic-Sounds this DC coupling provides for DC stability, a stable frequency response and no phase shift accept that introduced by the output transformer. Input connectivity is supported on a pair of front mounted unbalanced RCA connections, with volume control by a high quality Alps potentiometer.
The custom designed output transformers use multiple sections and layers that are insulated by high quality paper insulation. This is said to increase their high frequency response, helping to provide a stable amplifier. Their design supporting a frequency response of 20Hz-30KHz (-3dB points) and speaker impedances of 4, 8 and 16 ohms.
Even the power transformer is custom made being vacuum impregnated and having a full copper screen to reduce mains born rf interference. Its primary voltage is available to suit EU mains voltage from 220V-250V as well as the US voltage of 110V-120V.
The fully labelled and stylish gloss black chassis is made from 2mm welded aluminum and contains; a matched pair of Russian EL34’s, two EF86’s and an EZ81 rectifier valve. The EF86 valve sockets being gold plated.
Finally, it may be purchased as a complete kit. Everything is included; the chassis is provided fully punched ready to receive all components; PCB and PCB kit of parts, all valve sockets, hardware, transformers, switches, valves and wire. It also includes a detailed construction manual.
Specifications:
- Power: 3.5W RMS per channel
- Distortion: 0.4%@ 1W, 1%@3W
- Frequency Range: 20Hz-30KHz (-3dB)
- Sensitivity: 100mV for 3watts
- Tubes (valves): Two Russian EL84’s (matched pair), two EF86’s and an EZ81 rectifier valve
- Dimensions: 250mmx300mmx170mm
- Weight: 6Kg
- Voltage: European/US
MSRP:
- UK:
- Ready built:
- With tubes: £720
- Without tubes: £685
- The complete kit with tubes: £690
- Ready built:
These prices will increase on March 1st by; +£130 for the ready built system and +£115 for the full kit.
For more information visit the Classic-Sounds web site.
Related posts:
