Having completed several cigar box amp projects and seeing all of the many designs that ranged from minimalist to outrageous and not having cause to visit the "Store" for some time, I was delighted to see the addition of an amp with what I consider a more 'retro" feel, the construction of which made it clear to me that as a builder, perhaps I was on the right track with my design ideas!...
Although my Photoshop skills leave much to be desired, I think I'm progressing nicely in the building department....
Comments
Very nice, man. Two of my fave amp makers are Wes Carl and Maddog. You might enjoy looking at their pics.
The one on the right is a Gitty product currently being sold in the store (http://www.cbgitty.com/amplifiers/retro-red-cigar-box-amplifier-dua... ). I can't imagine cutting a hole like that without a costly CNC setup which probably accounts for its rather steep $79 price.
The one on the right is my home build, hence I think I'm on the right track" because to me, it had that "retro look" but for the hole, I just don't have the setup to cut anything as elaborate as the store version.
To get my hole to the proper size, I used my largest hole saw (3 inches). As for difficulty, I would have to say it's fairly easy if you take care at each step and plan out knob, jack and speaker placements. For my particular project a total of 17 holes of various sizes (including the speaker hole), so patience is a must as you will be needing to change drill bits often.
Electronic knowledge is not required if you can read simple directions and can solder reasonably well.
Fortunately in my case, I'm a electronics tech by trade so soldering is second nature to me but proficient soldering can be acquired with a few hours of practice on "kunk wire" and old PC boards. Since kits available from CB Gitty come 95^ pre soldered, you wont be doing much soldering anyway.
The projects amp is a "Ruby Amp" 2.5 w ordered with components not soldered to save money since I can solder well, that just made sense.
All other parts were ordered through the CB Gitty store
How did you cut the holes for the speaker? Very cool design, indeed!
At some point in time I'd like to build an amp. Did you find it difficult? Do you need prior electrical knowledge?