TV & Home Audio DIY Amplifier Kits

Things You Need to Know Before Purchasing a DIY Amplifier Kit

If you like to build things, then an affordable DIY amplifier kit could be what you need to get that thrill as well as providing you the customized, amplified sound you are looking for when playing your instruments. With a wide range of circuit designs and power types available in various DIY stereo amplifier kits, eBay can provide you with just the right kit to meet your preferences. This brief but informative guide will help you make the right decision before you make your final reasonably priced DIY amplifier kit purchase.

Amplifier kits can be rather intimidating for those with little to no knowledge about electronics. However, there are only a couple of important considerations for you to know regarding amplifier specifications. The first is power output, which is listed in watts or abbreviated with a ‘W’. The higher the wattage, the more powerful the amplifier. This value can range from single digits into the hundreds. If you are looking to power a very large speaker at high volume, then a minimum of 50 watts should be considered. If you are looking to power a small guitar amp in the living room, then anything from 1 to 10 watts is a good option. The next consideration is whether to buy a solid-state kit or a kit that uses tubes. If you would prefer a more ‘vintage’ tone then you would prefer tubes, although these are quite fragile. If the amplifier is going to be moved around often, a solid-state amplifier is the better choice.

This means that the amplifier is digital, and therefore has no tubes. These are smaller in size as they require smaller power transformers. Since this creates a smaller overall footprint for the amp, they are ideal for use in sub-woofers where space is limited. If you need an affordable stereo amplifier kit that will be used in the car, Class D amps are a wise choice. These also draw less current and produce less heat than other classes of amps.

If you are purchasing an audio amplifier kit for a beginner, you will also need to buy a soldering iron, solder, and a digital multi-meter to ensure all parts are available to build the amplifier. Try to buy silver solder rather than lead, because it is a better conductor.