Tube Treasures

  Output transformers play a crucial role in audio and power applications, efficiently transferring energy between primary and secondary windings while maintaining impedance matching. These transformers often utilize various core types, each with its unique characteristics and advantages. Understanding the core types commonly employed in output transformers can provide valuable insights into their design and performance. In this article, we will explore three frequently used core types: EI cores, C-cores, and Toroidal cores.   Table of Contents Introduction EI Cores 2.1 Construction and Design 2.2 Advantages of EI Cores 2.3 Limitations of EI Cores C-Cores 3.1 Construction and Design 3.2 Advantages of C-Cores 3.3 Limitations of C-Cores Toroidal Cores 4.1 Construction and Design 4.2 Advantages of Toroidal Cores 4.3 Limitations of Toroidal Cores Core Selection Considerations Conclusion FAQs   1. Introduction Output transformers are e...

Introduction:   Tube amplifiers are revered for their distinctive warm and rich sound, making them a preferred choice among audiophiles and musicians. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of tube amplifiers, accurate measurement and setting of the plate current, also known as anode current, are crucial. In this blog post, we will explore the intricacies of measuring tube amplifier plate current and provide a comprehensive step-by-step guide to understanding and implementing biasing effectively.   Voltage and Current Basics: To comprehend plate current measurement, it is essential to grasp some voltage and current fundamentals. In a closed loop circuit, the flow of current is dependent on the presence of a complete path, while resistances in series can be combined to determine the total resistance.   Measuring Plate Current: Directly measuring plate current can be challenging, but an easier alternative involves measuring the cathode current. Since th...