Clever construction

[Deke609]

Just came across the following build log: http://diyaudioprojects.com/Tubes/6L6-5881-SE-Tube-Amp/

Use of the aluminum angle at the corners of the chassis is a neat solution. But what I really think are cool are the transformer covers made of copper clad vector board. I'm going to try it.  Easier than forming steel sheet and I really like the look of copper.

cheers, Derek

 

[Paul Birkeland]

You might also find that it's not so bad to just use brazing wire. 

...or you could spend $20-40 and get a premade transformer cover.

For easy corner extrusions, check out the T-slots catalog.

 

[Deke609]

I've watched some brazing videos, but never tried it myself.  I like the idea of using copper clad board b/c (1) the FR4 or whatever will give the thing good rigidity, whereas even relatively thick copper sheet will dent if you just look at wrong, and (2) I figure you could make a 90 deg. v-cut in the FR4, being careful not to cut the exterior copper cladding, and fold it like a box - so that the top 4 edges are smooth copper and only the 4 sides would need to be soldered.

Where are you getting your covers - from the usual overseas vendors?

I will check out the T-slots catalog.  I really like the Landfall Systems chassis I got for the BeePre -- pretty good value for a quality case. But it would be a lot cheaper to source some aluminum C channel locally and make them myself (even if they don't look quite as nice as the LS ones).

cheers, Derek