For those interested in building their own tube amplifier, we have an update on the popular Mars Kit2 Mk2 offering from Mars Tube Audio.
For those who are new to this product, a quick description: the Mars Kit2 Mk2 is a 70 watt push-pull all-tube amplifier. The circuit is based upon the Mullard 5-20 amplifier of yore, with a few modifications to make it compatible with modern sources. We ditched the EF86 input pentode and 12AX7 phase inverter and chose the medium mu 6SN7. The assembly is point-to-point wiring utilising tag strips. All the parts to build one amplifier is included in the kit.
With the rising prices of steel, copper and tubes we were forced to look at the costs and see how we can structure the kit to still give the same value at a realistic price. We decided to modify the steel enclosure to simplify manufacturing and keep the price within budget.
The next costly item were the vacuum tubes. Here we have decided to leave it to the buyer to decide what tubes/cost option they want. By offering different options, constructors can choose what price bracket they buy into.
At the moment the most economical output tube is the Russian 6P3S with plenty still around on import. It is arguable which power tubes sounds the best, but most people choose the KT88, if they can afford it. The original Kit was supplied with EL34's as standard. We think the 6P3S is a good contender sonically, and some people might even prefer the sound.
There are other upgrades possible too, so PM us, or send a mail to [email protected] if you need more information.
Price options of the kit:
Questions are welcome.
For those who are new to this product, a quick description: the Mars Kit2 Mk2 is a 70 watt push-pull all-tube amplifier. The circuit is based upon the Mullard 5-20 amplifier of yore, with a few modifications to make it compatible with modern sources. We ditched the EF86 input pentode and 12AX7 phase inverter and chose the medium mu 6SN7. The assembly is point-to-point wiring utilising tag strips. All the parts to build one amplifier is included in the kit.
With the rising prices of steel, copper and tubes we were forced to look at the costs and see how we can structure the kit to still give the same value at a realistic price. We decided to modify the steel enclosure to simplify manufacturing and keep the price within budget.
The next costly item were the vacuum tubes. Here we have decided to leave it to the buyer to decide what tubes/cost option they want. By offering different options, constructors can choose what price bracket they buy into.
At the moment the most economical output tube is the Russian 6P3S with plenty still around on import. It is arguable which power tubes sounds the best, but most people choose the KT88, if they can afford it. The original Kit was supplied with EL34's as standard. We think the 6P3S is a good contender sonically, and some people might even prefer the sound.
There are other upgrades possible too, so PM us, or send a mail to [email protected] if you need more information.
Price options of the kit:
- Transformers only (1 x Power, 2 x Output) R 6 900.00
- Complete Kit without enclosure or tubes R 8 900.00
- Complete Kit without tubes R10 900.00 (enclosure has steel front/back/top with wooden cheeks)
- Complete Kit with 6P3S power tubes R11 900.00 (enclosure has steel front/back/top with wooden cheeks)
- Complete Kit with EL34 power tubes R14 900.00 (welded steel enclosure)
- Complete Kit with KT88 power tubes R16 900.00 (welded steel enclosure)
Questions are welcome.
