There is one primary question a person should ask themselves when
thinking of getting their first amp:
Do I really want to BUILD an amplifier or do I just want to HAVE an
amplifier?
Despite what you might think, it is actually cheaper to buy a
commercial amplifier than to homebrew. I know that sounds like heresy
to the dedicated homebrewer, but I believe it is true when everything
is taken into account.
For example, if you purchase all brand new parts, you lose right off
the bat. Manufacturers can buy parts cheaper than an individual can.
Just the cost of shipping all those parts one by one will kill you.
Second, you will not believe how many hours you will spend just
collecting the parts. Third, you will not believe how many hours you
spend actually building and testing the amplifier. Manufacturers have
the advantage here, unless you count your time as free.
And finally, a commercial amp will have considerable resale value if
it is a quality amp to begin with. If you ever try to sell your
homebrew, you will be lucky if you get back a fraction of the cost of
parts, never mind the value of your labor.
But in spite of all that, there is a powerful satisfaction in
homebrewing and that may outweigh all the other factors. It certainly
did for me and every time I look at my beautiful homebrew amp sitting
on my desk, I know it was all worth it.
Your call.
73, Bill W6WRT
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