Dennis Had Inspire Amps

[Human Bean]

Originally Posted by C10

Thanks again! Slightly different from mine, but I guess I pieced most of it together at this point. Any input on how to use the hum pots would be much appreciated. Also, it has a second switch in the back in addition to the on off B+ switch. Do users leave the back switch on all the time or do you turn if off and on?

Easy, just turn them in the direction that decreases hum. My unit does not have switches on the rear.

[Isaacc7]

The 6c8g is a quality tube. For whatever reason higher gain tubes aren’t as popular as the medium gain ones in twin triodes. The prices of good 6sn7 have gone through the roof. That has dragged the price if its predecessor the 6f8g higher as well. The 6c8g is a higher gain version of the 6f8g and is still pretty cheap. Its gain isn’t as high as the 6sl7 but is roughly analogous to the 6sl7 to the 6sn7. The 6c8g, 6f8g, and the MOV/GEC bl63 all use the same adapter. It’s a handy one to have around

[Human Bean]

Originally Posted by cporada

So would an adapter like in this photo do it? Thanks!!!

Yes, I have an extra one. PM me if you're interested.

[Isaacc7]

Dennis has an inspire 6flv amp listed on eBay. Could you use 6aq5 tubes in that with an adapter? I have several tubes I would like to use but they max out at 250v.

[Analog Addict]

Dennis doesn't recommend the 6AQ5 because the plate voltage is too high

[Isaacc7]

Originally Posted by Analog Addict

Dennis doesn't recommend the 6AQ5 because the plate voltage is too high

OK, thanks.

[t-bird]

Hi Everyone,

I recently purchased Dennis’ and Analog Addict’s open baffle Inspire speakers. I really like them, and Analog Addict asked me to share my impressions.

These speakers are fantastic. This is the first set of open baffled speakers I’ve owned (or listened to actually) and I am impressed by how well they fill my listening area. They image very well. I would say the sound is open and airy. The speakers disappear once the tubes are warmed. Vocals are amazing. I am using a vintage Grace cartridge, so I didn’t expect exceptional detail compared to a modern MC, but the detail is exceptional. The two 10” drivers provide a nice bass response.

I’ve really enjoyed hearing differences in tubes, amplifiers and recordings. Previously (using speakers from a local builder using French Audax drivers), I swapped tubes to find which fit best with my system. Now I am more likely to enjoy the differences between the tubes. For example, in my LP-27 preamp, I always preferred the 27s to the 56s, which I thought were harsh. On these new speakers, the 56s are smooth and provide a lot of drive (although I still prefer the 27s). Similarly, I have a new appreciation for the tone and rhythm of my Inspire EL84 amplifier with Mazda tubes, although the 45 Fire Bottles with EMLs remain my favorites.

What has impressed me most is noticing differences in recordings. I have a greater sense of hearing what was pressed on the the record. For example, although I do not listen to a lot of country music, a friend recommended Heartland, and the Judd sisters were singing on my couch. It’s super fun!

I hope you are all enjoying your Inspires!

[straitwire]

Just finished up the amp chassis.
I'm cutting the matching preamp chassis next week.
Some color swatches are on the way from Prismatic Powders.
Once I make a decision on the color, I'll have my powder coater order a couple of pounds of powder.
I've wanted to make these for a couple of years, but never got around to it.
The 0C2's where purchased when I first thought about the build.
Originally I was going to use EL84's but Dennis talked me into using 6GK6's.
Fortunately I was able to find a bunch of them at a good price along with some 5670's.
I'm waiting on the 5U4 rectifiers.
I'll post pics of the build as it progresses.
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[cporada]

Hi T-Bird,
Wow; those are beautiful speakers! Were those a custom production by Dennis and Analog Addict just for you, or are they something Dennis/AA offer to all Inspire fans? What was the cost for the pair? AA has posted numerous times about the small Inspire speakers Dennis is working on, but this is the first time I've seen an open baffle design.
Thanks,
Chris

[t-bird]

Hi Chris!

I believe that Dennis made three pairs of the speakers, and that one pair in Ziracote is still available on the marketplace for $2250 with pickup and a tour at the toy shop. Analog Addict has also offered to make custom finishes.

Todd