We love vintage plans, especially ones from the Eisenhower Era. Here's another one to drool over and explore: a One-Tube cigar box amp! The plans were first published in Science and Mechanics, Feb. 1954. We've taken a scan of them, cleaned them up and put it all together in one downloadable .pdf file below.
The plans suggest that the amp can be used for a phonograph and call for a phono jack as an input. Simply swap it out for a 1/4" guitar jack and you're in business.
WARNING: Do not build this schematic without major modification, as it may not be safe. Do NOT attempt to make this unless you incorporate a 3-prong plug with ground and a power transformer and fuse. Amps like these should not be sold without being disabled or the addition of a power transformer.
To get a sci-fi look to your amp like the one above, check out our feature, Cigar Box Amp Mods.
We should note that wiring with tubes can be dangerous. We present these plans as archival material and do not assume responsibility. For a safe alternative to tube amp construction, we suggest the C. B. Gitty solid state 2.5 watt amp kit.
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a repeat from above:
WARNING: Do not build this schematic without major modification, as it may not be safe. Do NOT attempt to make this unless you incorporate a 3-prong plug with ground and a power transformer and fuse. Amps like these should not be sold without being disabled or the addition of a power transformer.