Bluesmaster Style 100w HRM Build

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GAStan
Posts: 436
Joined: Thu Feb 23, 2023 9:35 pm
Location: El Paso, Texas

Bluesmaster Style 100w HRM Build

Post by GAStan »

According to the Mrs. I've got too many amps already, so why not build another? By my thinking I do have ODS's based on #s 102, 124 & 183 along with a SSS #4 but I don't have a Bluesmaster...

This will be based on the schematic drawn by @mdroberts1234 and the layout provided by Tony Albany here. Big THANK YOU to both as well as everyone else that contributed.

So far I've only gathered a few parts, but I just received a chassis from Taylor at AN so I consider myself committed. Just don't tell my Mrs. :wink:

I started an Excel BOM based on the schematic mentioned above. Mdroberts1234 did, IMHO, an excellent job by numbering each resistor and capacitor making this a much more logical and easier task.

I have two different power transformers to choose from, a newish Heyboer from APD and a NOS16911 by Magnetic Components. My plan is to power both up and check voltages then choose the one I like best.

Still undecided for an OT. APD has one I'm considering, called their Project OT with a broader frequency capability that a standard Fender OT with 2k2 primary or I'm also considering having one wound by Edcor that also offers a wider frequency range with 2k2 or 2k5 primary. I built the 183 with Edcor Iron and it sounds very good, my son has pretty much claimed it as his own.

This will likely be a lengthy build. Actually more like lengthy time gathering parts then not too lengthy assembly.
Glenn

I solder better than I play.
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Raoul Duke
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Location: S.E. Mass.

Re: Bluesmaster Style 100w HRM Build

Post by Raoul Duke »

Hi Glenn,
Looking forward to following your build and learning some more. I really like my BM/HRM and find it to be the one I currently play the most. I found this build to be the most challenging of the three ODS’ I’ve done - but it was well worth the time and I learned a ton.

I used the APD-8025B-H OT. I know you’re doing a 100w but thought you might find this interesting. A Marshall-type OT really gave my BM its own distinctly unique voice compared to my 102 and 2/3rd Gen. I think the 8026H is 100w/1.7k if you’re interested in checking it out. Not too far from 2.2k.

Anyhoo, good luck with the build!

PS: my wife tells me the same thing, lol.
Marc
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GAStan
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Joined: Thu Feb 23, 2023 9:35 pm
Location: El Paso, Texas

Re: Bluesmaster Style 100w HRM Build

Post by GAStan »

Thanks Marc for the thoughtful reply and suggestions.

The APD OT I'm looking at is the APD-8072H with 2k2 primary. From their description: "This is based loosely on the one used in the Marshall 100W Plexi, JMP, JCM800 amplifiers (APD_8026H) but has additional features. Physically it is larger and has more substantial, beefier mounting brackets. As far as performance it offers wider bandwidth than normal production guitar amplifier output transformers. This is the 4/8/16 Ohm version..." I plan on using 6L6 or KT66 tubes in the output section. What are your thoughts on this one?

Sorry for the delayed response. My wife and I are in Ohio for my son's Percussion Group. They're competing against groups from all over the world this week in the Cincinnati/Dayton area. The competition is called WGI World Championships and the competitors put on some really great shows. Like most things musical there's nothing like experiencing it live.
Glenn

I solder better than I play.
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GAStan
Posts: 436
Joined: Thu Feb 23, 2023 9:35 pm
Location: El Paso, Texas

Re: Bluesmaster Style 100w HRM Build

Post by GAStan »

This post will be a list of various threads I have used/am using as references. I will update it as appropriate. Thank you to all that have contributed, particularly the ever helpful Martin Manning.

Layout:
talbany Bluesmaster Layout

Schematic:
mdroberts1243 100W HRM in the BluesMaster Style?

Eyelet Boards:
martin manning ODS Eyelet Boards

Various threads:
ayan BM Build Pics

erwin_ve Bluesmaster Build

dorrisant Which Bluesmaster Should I Build?

norburybrook 100w Bluesmaster HRM new build

Raoul Duke threads, VERY informative:
Bluesmaster HRM Question
The Much Anticipated (?) Bluesmaster Build Thread

Pictures from Charlie Wilson:
#189 50W Bluesmaster(Ripper?) Photos
Glenn

I solder better than I play.
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GAStan
Posts: 436
Joined: Thu Feb 23, 2023 9:35 pm
Location: El Paso, Texas

Re: Bluesmaster Style 100w HRM Build

Post by GAStan »

Looking at power supply caps. For reservoir caps, looking at what's available in 220uF, I've narrowed it down to a Nichicon or Rubycon. The two I'm looking at are very similar in specs and price; 400vdc, 1.2mA ripple, 105°C, $6.9x, General Purpose.

Rubicon Capacitor 12,000 hour

Nichicon Capacitor 10,000 hour

I've had good luck with the 330uF Nichicons in my other builds. Has anyone had experience with Rubycon? For a bit of variety from my other amps I'd like to give Rubycon a try but would like to hear any opinions first.
Glenn

I solder better than I play.
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