Japanese-made, likely vintage, low-power tube amplifier designed for playing vinyl records (LP) with a typical AC mains input of 220 volts and an output power of around 7 watts. Here’s a breakdown of its components and potential functionalities:
Tubes:
- 1 x 6SN7: This is a dual-triode pentode vacuum tube commonly used in pre-amplifier and driver stages of audio equipment. In this amplifier, it likely handles both tasks:
- Pre-amplification: Amplifies the weak signal from your turntable cartridge.
- Driver stage: Provides further voltage gain to the signal before sending it to the power amplifier stage.
- 2 x 6V6: These are beam power tetrode tubes typically used in the power amplifier stage of audio amplifiers. They take the pre-amplified signal and significantly increase its power to drive the speakers.
- 1 x 5Y3K: This is a full-wave rectifier tube. It converts the incoming AC voltage from the mains power supply into DC voltage that the entire amplifier circuit can utilize.
Functionalities:
- Power Supply: The AC mains voltage (220V) enters the amplifier and is transformed by a power transformer to provide different AC voltages for various amplifier stages.
- Rectification: The 5Y3K tube rectifies the AC voltage from the transformer, converting it to DC voltage.
- Pre-amplification & Driver Stage: The 6SN7 tube amplifies the weak audio signal from your turntable cartridge in its pre-amplifier section. It might also provide further amplification in a driver stage before sending the signal to the power amplifier stage.
- Power Amplification: The two 6V6 tubes working in push-pull configuration (a specific circuit design) significantly amplify the pre-amplified signal to a level that can drive your speakers.
- Output Transformer: The output transformer matches the impedance of the power amplifier stage to your speakers, ensuring efficient power transfer and optimal sound reproduction.
- Speaker Output: The amplified audio signal is sent to your speakers, which convert it back into audible sound waves.
Additional Points:
- This is a general description based on the common functionalities of the tubes used. Without a specific model name or a schematic diagram, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact circuit design or features.
- 7 watts is a relatively low output power, making this amplifier suitable for small to medium-sized rooms.
- Vintage tube amplifiers might require occasional maintenance and component replacements.
If you’re looking for more information:
- Search online for the specific amplifier model name or brand to find user manuals, reviews, or restoration guides.
- If you have the amplifier itself, you can try searching online for the model number printed on the chassis or circuit board to find a schematic diagram. This can provide detailed information about the circuit design and component values.
Safety Notice:
Tube amplifiers operate with high voltages. If you’re not experienced with electronics and high voltage systems, it’s highly recommended to consult a qualified technician for repairs or modifications.
