46 SE amplifier Part 2

...SOLD...

Like the 41MXP SE amplifier, a choke input filter is the way to go. Excellent hum rejection, almost a perfect sin wave easy to smooth out and by far a less stressing load for the power transformer than a capacitor. The only concern is a higher AC voltage to get the desired DC supply.

Although first cell time constant is usually higher with a choke input in conjunction with a large capacitor (the total series resistance before the first filtering capacitor includes the choke resistance *), the transients are rendered with better dynamic.

* A reason why transformer makers pay great attention to get the lowest one when winding coils. Main drawback, chokes of that type are usually bigger and more expensive.

 

Construction is kept as simple as possible. One point wiring on a heavy ground bar and short wiring, whenever possible, are the basics of trouble free building.

As usually, just a few components of the highest quality. The heart being the output transformer plus a special input choke and oversized custom made power transformer.

Sub chassis with 46 heaters assemblies

On the bench for sin and squares. 3,26V_rms /8 ohm or 1.32W at clipping

Family grows up...

Sumptuous Cunningham globes and Telefunken baby bottles

Small Visseaux 46, great sound too

Listening report & setup

Various vinyl records, old Garrard 301 + FR24 and Entré EC30 cart or JVC 7082 and AT33 Mono, C3g phono preamp, 6J5 line preamp and homebrewed Klipsch/Altec multicell speakers.

The 46 is a very nice little tube that sings on any kind of music. He knows how to be enchanting or even glamorous, especially on female voices. Despite a limited power, its voice is authoritative and can be capable of great energy on dedicated speakers. The most surprising is the low end reproduction, firm, powerful and ample, comparable to the big MC1/60 amp. Very different from its almost twin sister, the 45.

I understand enthusiasm for this triode which combines finesse and firmness. This tube can delight music lovers whatever the material except, perhaps, high level rock fans.

and many others...