This was a project for my electrical network analysis class. A modified JCM800 amplifier. I picked this particular amp because I feel it signified the beginning of a new era of high gain music. Hard rock and metal music only exist because manufacturers like Marshall started offering these high output gritty beasts for artist to experiment with. For the nerds out there, this amp uses Genalex(Russian) KT77 power tubes, 12ax7 preamp tubes, Heyboer transformers, Mojotone caps, a Celestion 70w V-type speaker, and carbon-comp resistors. This amplifier makes 50w and fits in a 40mm surplus ammo can. The most challenging aspect of this build was designing a layout that would would preserve sound quality. High voltage AC components (up to 450v) had to be carefully placed, routed, or insulated to prevent hum and oscillatory feedback from entering the guitar signal chain. Hours where spend agonizing over the relative placement of transformers, tubes and various other components.
davidbarno 