The Moreplay is cheap enough to be an ADDITION to your Hi-Fi Rig! Roll it and and roll it out for listening pleasure. Also, Bottlehead is a great gateway provider to the beauty of DIY!!! Building the gear you listen to yourself is supremely satisfying. It opens your mind and ears to a better understanding of Hi-Fi. The internet is full of DIY culture and community and before you know it you'll be hooked. What do you have to lose? Give it a try!!!
Actually Bottlehead is located in Poulsbo, WA. Let's not unintentionally give the impression that Seattle is a healthly environment for small business.
I built the Bottlehead stereomour kit and I have 4 thumbs and failing eye sight. My secret? I didn't have a deadline. If I became impatient, I'd stop. Some days that only took 5 minutes. But some days I'd go 4 hours. I also used lights and magnifying lenses. I looked like Mr. Magoo. The results are most satisfying. I also saved a bundle. Used the savings to get a better power cable and tubes.
this is great advice. I've just started building electronics again after a 15 year pause and taking a break no matter how often has been very helpful. As well as not setting a deadline. Even if that means it takes a couple months, lol!
Absolutely loved the, “SO STEVE, SO WHAT DID YOU REALLY THINK” segment. That’d be a great addition to reviews in general. Thanks again, Steve! Great vid.
I have built too many kits to remember in my lifetime and your friend Dave saying that this kit was not very complex to build was not that easy in my humble opinion for the less experienced. If you are not a kit builder or you do not have the patience to take this project on, my suggestion is to find someone who likes building electronics for the enjoyment build it for you because the $350 additional fee is sizable. I can understand why this cost after looking at the finished wiring. Dave is a pro at electronic construction. His calm nature and organization skills says it all. The system of the day looks pretty cool especially with the addition of the wonderful sounding Amp Camp Amp kit. The PASS DIY Korg Pre Amp may be a better choice because of the overly romantic sound of the Bottlehead but their my be good synergy (Yin/Yang) between them.
I would almost be inclined to agree with you, but the Bottlehead build manuals are SO absolutely thorough (I cannot emphasize enough) that it will knock down the degree of difficulty down a few notches for any prospective builder. The manuals detail every single part of the build and completely holds your hand through the whole process until you have the complete product. Provided that you have the necessary tools and basic soldering skills, I don't think anybody should be daunted by the DIY kits Bottlehead sells.
@@EverettSheu 5:50ish this guy reiterates this is probably not the best project for a beginner. The manual looks pretty detailed though. Is this and amp camp mono blocks going to sound better than willsenton r8??
Bottlehead kits are a great way to get into tubes. Tube circuits are relatively simple. Small changes can make a big difference. For instance you can tweak the sound and perhaps improve resolution by replacing the output coupling caps. The stock caps are ok but better caps such as Sonicaps, Clarity Caps, Mundorf, Miflex copper caps, and V-Caps will perform better. So you can roll tubes and or caps to change the sound. If you like to tweak these kits are great for that.
Built a pair of Bottlehead ParaSEX monoblock power amps in 1999 and was blown away. Since then: Foreplay preamp Crack headphone amp with upgrades Paramount 300b monoblocks I also own a Bottlehead DAC (I believe only 55 were made). With its supplied wall wart PSU it sounded good. Powered from a bank of emergency lighting cells (Yuasa "D" cells) shunted with a really fast capacitor it sounds excellent... Their web site also runs a fine forum for fellow-Bottleheads. So thumbs-up here for Bottlehead. (No financial connection).
Just thinking Steve. You find the best in worthy components. Sometimes it's not easy to say "which is best" as long as it keeps us involved with the music. I currently have three budget preamps ($1000-$2000) in house. I'm trying to decide which one to keep. They all have their merits and they are all worthy and they all get me involved and keep me interested in my music. So I get it. Many of us viewers want you to say "which is best". The fact that you review it and get excited enough to share your music with us, is sufficient to say, yes, this is worthy of trying in my system.
Doc Bottlehead is a legend. I've known him (virtually, through online conversations) for decades. I remember many years ago on the JoeNet, he suggested using a transistor for some purpose. I replied, "Transistor? Blasphemy! Who are you, and what have you done with our Bottlehead?" Oh, and the 6V6 is a legitimate audio tube. It's a lower-powered version of the 6L6.
@@keplermission4947 the fact it’s a kit is a part of the overall design of the piece, but the essential element is it’s quality, surely. For some reason, you seem to have missed the most salient point. I wouldn’t have been able to build this kit in the first place, because I had never heard of the brand. Americans seem to overestimate the idea that because they know about something every other sentient being on the face of the planet does too. Behind the ability to review the preamp is the fact that someone made the kit in the first place. I can make this now, because I know about it. That’s the knowledge I was thanking Steve for sharing. Is that ok for you? By the way, the way a Ferrari corners really depends on the road, the tyres and the model. For the most part, the three I have driven have all cornered very differently from each other. Personally, I prefer the way a Lotus corners.
I just recently purchased and completed the moreplay. It is my 2nd bottlehead kit. I really like their products. I can honestly say that no single audio product has brought me more joy than this preamp. I run this through a NAD C298 amp with KEF ls50 metas and it sounds fantastic, but there is just something about the sense of accomplishment sitting right there in front of me that makes the music sound that much better. Thanks for all the great content Steve.
After the Mola Mola Tambaqui review, I was like "great my Ares II is hopelessly digital sounding" (it's not). And I can't afford to get a Mola EVER. Now Steve reviews one of the most relatable preamps from one of the most relatable companies, Bottlehead! If the Moreplay circuit was in an exotic case and cost $8000, it would be on backorder forever now, as it will be from Bottlehead. It's great to see people who have worked hard in the tube amp domain succeed. I mentioned Decware Zen amps and low power amps thirteen years ago in a conversation with a well know audio dealer - he told me that "you don't know what you're talking about ". Steve Deckert, of Decware seems to be pretty busy these days!
Steve I'm super pumped you have a video on a bottlehead! When I heard one my friend had, my mind was blown and when he said he made it, I was freaking sold. The fact you even stain the wood yourself was amazing to me. I don't own a tube amp, because I'm a fool and I almost grabbed a dark voice but I ordered the entry level bottle crack with the upgrade. I've done some minor soldering for wire upgrades on certain headphones but this is going to be my first serious build but I feel confident with the detailed instructions and the voltage checking. I'm super excited, I hope you still have yours!
Steve, please. Stay true. Do not fall for the fad of crazy headlines. Honest reviews, in the long term, will keep your channel honest and valuable. Cheers! I am a fan!
Great review and its nice to have such a company given exposure. Although I'm in the Netherlands (country where the Mola Mola you enjoy so much was produced), an Aric Audio tube pre-amp found its way to my system. Designed and made by a small US company, modified at my HiFi specialist shop nearby, I love this little amp and with a DIY custom PSU I made myself. It's a part of the hobby I enjoy so much. Love to see more stuff like this!
I'm very lucky to have an 80 year old Radio and T.V. Repairman basically whose been in Business for 50 years. I've wanted to build an Amp or something under his watchful eye, so I for one appreciate KIT Reviews. Just saying :)
My audio journey started with a Crackatwoa and HD650's. It then quickly spun out of control and I built their 300B Kaiju SET amp. The sound quality is unbeatable for the price.
Hey Steve, nice review. I am glad that you are covering some more affordable gear again. I have dabbled in the DIY audio over the years, and really enjoyed it. I find kits fun and satisfying. I sent you a picture of my system a while back, and on the shelf to the right hand side of my system, is a pair of 2A3 SET Bottle head amps I built about a year ago. They sound really nice, and we’re a good time to build.
A most excellent vid. I love the content presentation style and organization. I enjoy the music examples that are shown and I look forward to listening to the cds that were shown. Good job Steve.
I built the old Foreplay pre. Upgrading the parts wires etc brought it to the next level of clarity and slam without losing the full harmonics and richness. It was a stunning component. You got me thinking about the Moreplay now......
6V6GB tubes were very common in console amps from Magnavox, Motorola, Zenith, sears and others in the 50’s leading into the transistor stereo age. were also used in guitar amps around the same time. Good full bodied tube.
Good day all! I don't believe I'll ever be interested in any gear that I have to build myself. However, I must admit that the build manual that comes with that kit was top notch! I was impressed that the manufacturer took such care to see that instructions were so intuitive. Well done.
You're right, that set of instructions looked fantastic. Regarding gear you assemble/build yourself, ... projects like that they're often accompanied with the powerful feeling of accomplishment. You think expectation bias is strong?... Wow, a diy project often comes with expectation bias on steroids! All the best
Bottlehead kits look fantastic. I’m very tempted by their BeePre2 300B preamp and Kaiju 300B amplifier. I think I’d likely upgrade a few of the parts, but it looks like a solid design. Great vid, Steve! Thanks! Glad to see you review another kit.
Looks like really good value. The extra build cost isn't bad at all, they likely test thd etc. with devices most diyers don't have. Also built by the co designer, that's pretty amazing imo. Ali Farka Toure and Ry Cooder is one of the best albums ever. It is my audio comfort blanket. Thanks Steve:)
Thanks for the review! I didn't know about Bottlehead until I watched this video. I was thinking of building an Elekit tube amp but after watching this and checking out the Bottlehead site I am seriously considering building the Moreplay preamp and their Kaiju 300B amp kit instead this winter. Thanks for the heads up about Bottlehead! Liked and subscribed! : )
6v6 was used in the Fender Deluxe and later Deluxe Reverb as the push pull output tubes. Probably the most popular line of medium-low wattage guitar amps.
Steve, I love the fact you took the time to review the Bottlehead kit. I’ve built, as you know, the Stereomour and the Crack kits. They’re both excellent amps.
I have been running a Bottlehead Quickie for my preamp for about 5 years. From what I understand, the More play is the AC powered version (the Quickie uses batteries). So great to see a review on this Steve! How about a review on a SET amp like the Stereomour or Kaiju? Then maybe a review of some high efficiency SET speakers? That would be awesome!
I have a bottle head crack I used to use with my senny 600s. Sounded pretty good but it was the point in life where I realized I just didn’t have the ear to be an audiophile. I did install the speedball kit but removed it because it was just too electronics sounding. All together though I saw the Sennheiser an amp has been sitting as a decoration on a shelf for three years. I’ve moved to Bluetooth headphones (grado, akg) And still have a few pair of wired but with a growing family who the heck ever has time to listen to music anymore. Damn baby shark
Well would you look at that... How cool is that in 2021 to be able to build you're own tube pre-amp kit. Steve, as always, thank-you for what you do and providing your candid opinions.
6V6! That's thinking outside the box in regards to hifi. I certainly know that tube from some favorite guitar amps. First time I've seen somebody use in. an audio preamp way, very cool. Good comparison of classic tube vs solid state sound as well. Neither topology better than the other, just different.
Interesting rhing about the Paul Lay album, the right hand notes come from the right speaker, the left hand notes come from the left speaker - it's almost like I'm playing the music myself. If I owned a piano that is. Or knew how to play one.
Thank you for this amazing video! I just started building mine and would like to know how the metal top plate was painted. Did you powder coat it or spray paint it or some other application method? Also, does the paint have to be high heat resistant because of the tubes sitting on it? Thank you so much for any guidance you may offer :)
Interesting, and it's affordable! Thanks for this review. It would be good to hear how the Bottlehead compares to other budget preamps such as the Schiit Freya Plus, or the Primaluna Evo 100. I suppose that's not quite your style. Which is cool!
Great to see that he used Network Cable for his internal wiring - I use CAT 7 Network cables or the individual wires for nearly all connections - absolutely great performance for the money . . . . and BTW CAT 7 sounds significantly better that CAT5e or CAT 6
Is that a change to what BH supply? They supply what does the job but don't chase fancy cables if they don't need to. In this case The difference in costs between 1/3metre of either of these would be very small.
Tons of hi-fi amps from the 60's (Bell is one example) used 6V6 tubes. I worked for a while on a DIY 6V6 preamp and found the same things, a bit soft and also a bit microphonic (tube dampers fixed that). But, outstanding character and punch. By the way, if you can move to 12v heaters that opens a big world of 12V6 varieties at very affordable prices. I don't know the heater arrangement in this, and I'm guessing a small 12v transformer would need to be fitted, but if possible, opens lots of doors.
Very unusual to use a 6v6 in a preamp application. 6v6 tubes were very common as power tubes (about 6-7 watts per tube), in guitar amps and also very common in various Console Tube Amplifiers from the 50s and early 60s.
Nice video, Steve. I always believe your reviews and comments are spot right on. In your opinion, how would the Moreplay pair with the Schiit Vidar? I have the Freya S preamp, which I like, but am interested in the "tube sound" from the Moreplay as a sonic option.
Great review. I’m definitely planning on building one of their bottlehead crack kits at some point. I just need to buy a pair of headphones that will pair well with it first (the obvious choice would be the HD600/650/6xx). The impedance of my current headphones is way too low.
Sounds like better caps and components will probably make this pre open up. Is this better than the Schiit Freya + ? Enquiring audiophilacs want to know...
The sound itself won't change, but you will gain reliability, tight tolerances, durability, much better component matching, confidence in the system. When I dabbled in DIY projects many moons ago I used cheap parts to experiment with, and only bought high grade parts when I ended up with a "keeper", something to insert in my audio chain. When you are just tinkering and experimenting high quality parts cost the earth and were overkill for a gadget that would eventually be torn apart anyway leaving you with heaps of EXPENSIVE parts with no clear purpose in mind. (Besides, when you bought "standard" parts and you knew what you were doing you could do the "binning" yourself). When you struck gold on a design you rebuilt it with the expensive parts. The difference in something as basic as a potentiometer or a toggle switch could be ten times the price. But that was when high grade components were US made and cheap ones came from SE Asia, just as today. (except that now Japan has gone premium). Given the price delta I suspect that lots of the audio gear being sold is based on "average" grade parts. Industrial grade or "MilSpec" parts were and are VERY costly.
Nice review Steve. I’ve been wondering, when you compare preamps or other gear for that matter, do you connect them to an A/B switch or just direct , then do you say listen to one or two tracks then switch back and forth or do you experience one system for an entire album or session then swap out and repeat? If others wonder too might be an interesting topic for a future vid. Oh! And I loved the short! Do make more.😬
Very cool segment on building the kit. Interesting, with a balance control no less. Maybe you can do a follow up once you get a chance to tube roll... Steve, how does it compare to the similarly priced Schiit Freya+ ? I'm heading downstairs to audition the Paul Lay recording on Qobuz 🎶🤫🎶
PS I'm reminded of Jacques Loussier trio "Play Bach". Paul Lay attempts to jazz up Beethoven....to mixed levels of effectiveness. A trio might just pull it off... His Für Elise is getting into Bruce Adolf's "piano puzzler" territory. Nice rich piano sound tho. The Ry & Ali Farka outing is one of my favorites 👍
Another nice review! Very much interesting these Bottlehead’s. One question; I’m not sure about the 3x knobs it’s function. 1x Source select, the others tone controle? Balance?
I keep considering the BeePree 2. I've built, enjoyed, and sold my Kaiju. Kind of wanted a bit my power output even tho it sounded amazing. I'd love to know how the BeePree compares to other high end options.
Thanks for this review Steve. Since we’re on the subject of kits, how do you think this preamp would pair with the Elkit TU-8600 integrated amp that you and Herb have favorably reviewed?? Would it be an enhancement and a good match?
Hello, Good Sir. I have a second generation Conrad Johnson PV-10 preamplifier. Is it better to send it back to CJ and get it updated, or spend the same money to buy something like this, thanks.
I am seriously looking at building my first kit in the near future. Also would like a preamp with a very ‘tubey’ sound signature. Unfortunately, having no remote is a dealbreaker for me. Anyone have a suggestion for something just like this with a remote?
You're making it harder to keep making excuses for not trying g a tube sound. I'm wondering how it would pair with my old Magnapan MGlls..I'm running class D power right now, and I like it...some people, right? Lol. I'm really curious how a tube preamp would pair with the Crown...
Had a pair of MGIIIa's back in the day - - Best wishes with your MGII's - bet they're excellent sounding - and personally, I'm fine with the Class D thing - I'm currently running the Bel Canto Ref600m's, which are class D's, I think they're a pretty good match with the 3.7i's.
Hi Steve, great review! I own a moreplay, and last week I purchased an Aegir power amp, which I´m using with PSB X1T speakers, that have 89db sensitivity. I´m missing some bass slam here, so I´m thinking about getting another Aegir, since the moreplay has to main outputs. My plan is to biamp horizontally (or is it better to do it vertically?). I can´t run the Aegirs in mono since the moreplay doesn´t have balanced outputs. Do you think biamping will provide a bigger bass? Thanks!
My Scott mountain bike is red with black accents. However, as a former carpenter and wood worker I am universally opposed to painting natural wood. But, please continue ….
3kohms+ is a MUCH to high output impedance for a preamp, it will not be able to drive reasonable cables lenghts. Do yourself a favor and find another kit.100 ohms output impedance is a much better figure. I always try to have a 1:100 impedance relation between preamp out and power amp in. And yes it does mean a lot.
Those wildly 'flagellating' and vibrating power/filter caps on the right need to lose that rubber band and be properly secured to the board w/RTV 4500 or other suitable silicone. There appears to be more than enough room to have used axial caps w/terminal strips, instead of radials..
Agreed - I have a Freya + and really enjoy it, but i'm interested to get a sense of how they differ. I would imagine the Freya is somewhat less tubey, but in a good way.
Sorry, but there’s always another one. This is a desktop system with a DIY tube headphone amplifier, I’m just trying to present different kinds of systems. Not the same stuff day after day after day!
The Moreplay is cheap enough to be an ADDITION to your Hi-Fi Rig!
Roll it and and roll it out for listening pleasure. Also, Bottlehead is a
great gateway provider to the beauty of DIY!!! Building the gear you listen
to yourself is supremely satisfying. It opens your mind and ears to a
better understanding of Hi-Fi. The internet is full of DIY culture and community
and before you know it you'll be hooked. What do you have to lose? Give it a try!!!
585 bucks, basically the cost of a decent mc cart lol, but I hear ya. Im taking the plunge too, cause why not.
Actually Bottlehead is located in Poulsbo, WA. Let's not unintentionally give the impression that Seattle is a healthly environment for small business.
I built the Bottlehead stereomour kit and I have 4 thumbs and failing eye sight. My secret? I didn't have a deadline. If I became impatient, I'd stop. Some days that only took 5 minutes. But some days I'd go 4 hours. I also used lights and magnifying lenses. I looked like Mr. Magoo. The results are most satisfying. I also saved a bundle. Used the savings to get a better power cable and tubes.
I have built one kit, 45 mono blocks. Stopping if I got impatient was the key for me too!
You’re wise men Nick and Chris.
this is great advice. I've just started building electronics again after a 15 year pause and taking a break no matter how often has been very helpful. As well as not setting a deadline. Even if that means it takes a couple months, lol!
Absolutely loved the, “SO STEVE, SO WHAT DID YOU REALLY THINK” segment. That’d be a great addition to reviews in general. Thanks again, Steve! Great vid.
@@keplermission4947 Complain to someone else. I DO NOT CARE, NOR WANT TO HEAR IT.
Bottlehead makes solid kits have done so for decades. Owned a bit in my time.
that red and black is sharp. Love it!
I have built too many kits to remember in my lifetime and your friend Dave saying that this kit was not very complex to build was not that easy in my humble opinion for the less experienced. If you are not a kit builder or you do not have the patience to take this project on, my suggestion is to find someone who likes building electronics for the enjoyment build it for you because the $350 additional fee is sizable. I can understand why this cost after looking at the finished wiring. Dave is a pro at electronic construction. His calm nature and organization skills says it all.
The system of the day looks pretty cool especially with the addition of the wonderful sounding Amp Camp Amp kit. The PASS DIY Korg Pre Amp may be a better choice because of the overly romantic sound of the Bottlehead but their my be good synergy (Yin/Yang) between them.
I would almost be inclined to agree with you, but the Bottlehead build manuals are SO absolutely thorough (I cannot emphasize enough) that it will knock down the degree of difficulty down a few notches for any prospective builder. The manuals detail every single part of the build and completely holds your hand through the whole process until you have the complete product.
Provided that you have the necessary tools and basic soldering skills, I don't think anybody should be daunted by the DIY kits Bottlehead sells.
@@EverettSheu 5:50ish this guy reiterates this is probably not the best project for a beginner. The manual looks pretty detailed though.
Is this and amp camp mono blocks going to sound better than willsenton r8??
Bottlehead kits are a great way to get into tubes. Tube circuits are relatively simple. Small changes can make a big difference. For instance you can tweak the sound and perhaps improve resolution by replacing the output coupling caps. The stock caps are ok but better caps such as Sonicaps, Clarity Caps, Mundorf, Miflex copper caps, and V-Caps will perform better. So you can roll tubes and or caps to change the sound. If you like to tweak these kits are great for that.
Built a pair of Bottlehead ParaSEX monoblock power amps in 1999 and was blown away. Since then:
Foreplay preamp
Crack headphone amp with upgrades
Paramount 300b monoblocks
I also own a Bottlehead DAC (I believe only 55 were made). With its supplied wall wart PSU it sounded good. Powered from a bank of emergency lighting cells (Yuasa "D" cells) shunted with a really fast capacitor it sounds excellent...
Their web site also runs a fine forum for fellow-Bottleheads. So thumbs-up here for Bottlehead. (No financial connection).
What sonicapa did you go with? Gen 1, 2, or platinum?
@@ROBERT-ml7ml
1 - Good for tubes
2 - use as bypass caps in speaker crossovers
Platinum - Good for everything but take a long time to break in.
Just thinking Steve. You find the best in worthy components. Sometimes it's not easy to say "which is best" as long as it keeps us involved with the music. I currently have three budget preamps ($1000-$2000) in house. I'm trying to decide which one to keep. They all have their merits and they are all worthy and they all get me involved and keep me interested in my music. So I get it. Many of us viewers want you to say "which is best". The fact that you review it and get excited enough to share your music with us, is sufficient to say, yes, this is worthy of trying in my system.
Exactly!
Doc Bottlehead is a legend. I've known him (virtually, through online conversations) for decades. I remember many years ago on the JoeNet, he suggested using a transistor for some purpose. I replied, "Transistor? Blasphemy! Who are you, and what have you done with our Bottlehead?"
Oh, and the 6V6 is a legitimate audio tube. It's a lower-powered version of the 6L6.
Steve…this is such a useful review. I’d never know about the existence of smaller manufacturers like Bottlehead. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Thanks for the feedback back
@@keplermission4947 the fact it’s a kit is a part of the overall design of the piece, but the essential element is it’s quality, surely. For some reason, you seem to have missed the most salient point. I wouldn’t have been able to build this kit in the first place, because I had never heard of the brand. Americans seem to overestimate the idea that because they know about something every other sentient being on the face of the planet does too. Behind the ability to review the preamp is the fact that someone made the kit in the first place. I can make this now, because I know about it. That’s the knowledge I was thanking Steve for sharing. Is that ok for you?
By the way, the way a Ferrari corners really depends on the road, the tyres and the model. For the most part, the three I have driven have all cornered very differently from each other. Personally, I prefer the way a Lotus corners.
I just recently purchased and completed the moreplay. It is my 2nd bottlehead kit. I really like their products. I can honestly say that no single audio product has brought me more joy than this preamp. I run this through a NAD C298 amp with KEF ls50 metas and it sounds fantastic, but there is just something about the sense of accomplishment sitting right there in front of me that makes the music sound that much better. Thanks for all the great content Steve.
Nice. I’ve always loved kits. It is a way to make hifi more accessible for people on a budget
@@keplermission4947 - my entry into "not Radio Shack" audio was a Hafler DH-120 which actually worked when I plugged it in.
Thanks Steve! Happy to discover a new preamp. This beauty needs to be compared to the Freya +
I love Ry Cooder's recording style - very atmospheric
Try "Mambo Sinuendo" if you don't have it already.
After the Mola Mola Tambaqui review, I was like "great my Ares II is hopelessly digital sounding" (it's not). And I can't afford to get a Mola EVER. Now Steve reviews one of the most relatable preamps from one of the most relatable companies, Bottlehead! If the Moreplay circuit was in an exotic case and cost $8000, it would be on backorder forever now, as it will be from Bottlehead.
It's great to see people who have worked hard in the tube amp domain succeed. I mentioned Decware Zen amps and low power amps thirteen years ago in a conversation with a well know audio dealer - he told me that "you don't know what you're talking about ". Steve Deckert, of Decware seems to be pretty busy these days!
Yeah, just ordered a Decware amp - six months back-ordered!
Steve I'm super pumped you have a video on a bottlehead! When I heard one my friend had, my mind was blown and when he said he made it, I was freaking sold. The fact you even stain the wood yourself was amazing to me.
I don't own a tube amp, because I'm a fool and I almost grabbed a dark voice but I ordered the entry level bottle crack with the upgrade. I've done some minor soldering for wire upgrades on certain headphones but this is going to be my first serious build but I feel confident with the detailed instructions and the voltage checking. I'm super excited, I hope you still have yours!
Thanks Steve, really enjoying the viewer system segments.
Steve - I like that you reviewed a small independent audio maker; the exposure will surely help their bottom line - bravo!
I have bought and built several bottlehead kits. Love Bottlehead
Steve, please. Stay true. Do not fall for the fad of crazy headlines. Honest reviews, in the long term, will keep your channel honest and valuable.
Cheers!
I am a fan!
Great review and its nice to have such a company given exposure. Although I'm in the Netherlands (country where the Mola Mola you enjoy so much was produced), an Aric Audio tube pre-amp found its way to my system. Designed and made by a small US company, modified at my HiFi specialist shop nearby, I love this little amp and with a DIY custom PSU I made myself. It's a part of the hobby I enjoy so much. Love to see more stuff like this!
I'm very lucky to have an 80 year old Radio and T.V. Repairman basically whose been in Business for 50 years. I've wanted to build an Amp or something under his watchful eye, so I for one appreciate KIT Reviews.
Just saying :)
My audio journey started with a Crackatwoa and HD650's. It then quickly spun out of control and I built their 300B Kaiju SET amp. The sound quality is unbeatable for the price.
Without the text on the shirt I wouldn't have spotted an audiophiliac in this video
😁
Hey Steve, nice review. I am glad that you are covering some more affordable gear again.
I have dabbled in the DIY audio over the years, and really enjoyed it. I find kits fun and satisfying. I sent you a picture of my system a while back, and on the shelf to the right hand side of my system, is a pair of 2A3 SET Bottle head amps I built about a year ago. They sound really nice, and we’re a good time to build.
Great stuff! Love the colors that Dave picked to customize the pre-amp. Nice custom touch, Dave!
A most excellent vid. I love the content presentation style and organization. I enjoy the music examples that are shown and I look forward to listening to the cds that were shown. Good job Steve.
Thanks so much!
I built the old Foreplay pre. Upgrading the parts wires etc brought it to the next level of clarity and slam without losing the full harmonics and richness. It was a stunning component. You got me thinking about the Moreplay now......
6V6GB tubes were very common in console amps from Magnavox, Motorola, Zenith, sears and others in the 50’s leading into the transistor stereo age. were also used in guitar amps around the same time. Good full bodied tube.
Good day all! I don't believe I'll ever be interested in any gear that I have to build myself. However, I must admit that the build manual that comes with that kit was top notch! I was impressed that the manufacturer took such care to see that instructions were so intuitive. Well done.
You're right, that set of instructions looked fantastic.
Regarding gear you assemble/build yourself, ... projects like that they're often accompanied with the powerful feeling of accomplishment.
You think expectation bias is strong?... Wow, a diy project often comes with expectation bias on steroids!
All the best
ha ha ha, i LOVE the tape measure in the background!!!
Bottlehead kits look fantastic. I’m very tempted by their BeePre2 300B preamp and Kaiju 300B amplifier. I think I’d likely upgrade a few of the parts, but it looks like a solid design. Great vid, Steve! Thanks! Glad to see you review another kit.
Looks like really good value. The extra build cost isn't bad at all, they likely test thd etc. with devices most diyers don't have. Also built by the co designer, that's pretty amazing imo.
Ali Farka Toure and Ry Cooder is one of the best albums ever. It is my audio comfort blanket.
Thanks Steve:)
looks very yummy and I have tried their headphone amp, the crack. excellent quality and sound.
It truly looks like one of those projects people used to build from plans in Popular Electronics in the early sixties.
That's how I built my satellite. Never got it launched though. Maybe I'll give Elon a call...
Thanks for the review! I didn't know about Bottlehead until I watched this video. I was thinking of building an Elekit tube amp but after watching this and checking out the Bottlehead site I am seriously considering building the Moreplay preamp and their Kaiju 300B amp kit instead this winter. Thanks for the heads up about Bottlehead! Liked and subscribed! : )
6v6 was used in the Fender Deluxe and later Deluxe Reverb as the push pull output tubes. Probably the most popular line of medium-low wattage guitar amps.
Hi Steve, an interesting comparison would be against the Schiit Freya+ and it’s three modes. Maybe a follow up review? Thanks.
Steve, I love the fact you took the time to review the Bottlehead kit. I’ve built, as you know, the Stereomour and the Crack kits. They’re both excellent amps.
I have been running a Bottlehead Quickie for my preamp for about 5 years. From what I understand, the More play is the AC powered version (the Quickie uses batteries). So great to see a review on this Steve! How about a review on a SET amp like the Stereomour or Kaiju? Then maybe a review of some high efficiency SET speakers? That would be awesome!
I have a bottle head crack I used to use with my senny 600s. Sounded pretty good but it was the point in life where I realized I just didn’t have the ear to be an audiophile. I did install the speedball kit but removed it because it was just too electronics sounding. All together though I saw the Sennheiser an amp has been sitting as a decoration on a shelf for three years. I’ve moved to Bluetooth headphones (grado, akg) And still have a few pair of wired but with a growing family who the heck ever has time to listen to music anymore. Damn baby shark
Well would you look at that... How cool is that in 2021 to be able to build you're own tube pre-amp kit. Steve, as always, thank-you for what you do and providing your candid opinions.
6V6! That's thinking outside the box in regards to hifi. I certainly know that tube from some favorite guitar amps. First time I've seen somebody use in. an audio preamp way, very cool. Good comparison of classic tube vs solid state sound as well. Neither topology better than the other, just different.
The Bottlehead Crack headphone amp is considered to be a match made in heaven for the Sennheiser HD650 and HD600 headphones...
Nice
Interesting rhing about the Paul Lay album, the right hand notes come from the right speaker, the left hand notes come from the left speaker - it's almost like I'm playing the music myself. If I owned a piano that is. Or knew how to play one.
Beautiful
6v6 was used in Ampex 620 powered speaker. Mated with 601 portable suitcase tape deck, reel to reel.
But 6v6 was push pull driving speaker i.e. not preamp tube.
Steve you are great , I love my York phono stage , my amp is a AudioSpace AS-i3 love my CD’ and vinyl is back.
Thank you for this amazing video! I just started building mine and would like to know how the metal top plate was painted. Did you powder coat it or spray paint it or some other application method? Also, does the paint have to be high heat resistant because of the tubes sitting on it?
Thank you so much for any guidance you may offer :)
Interesting, and it's affordable! Thanks for this review. It would be good to hear how the Bottlehead compares to other budget preamps such as the Schiit Freya Plus, or the Primaluna Evo 100. I suppose that's not quite your style. Which is cool!
Great to see that he used Network Cable for his internal wiring - I use CAT 7 Network cables or the individual wires for nearly all connections - absolutely great performance for the money . . . . and BTW CAT 7 sounds significantly better that CAT5e or CAT 6
Is that a change to what BH supply? They supply what does the job but don't chase fancy cables if they don't need to. In this case The difference in costs between 1/3metre of either of these would be very small.
would it be worth using high purity copper polyethylene jacket wire?
@@tallpaull9367 - Can't help you with that one - Cat 7 is just fine for me.
Tons of hi-fi amps from the 60's (Bell is one example) used 6V6 tubes. I worked for a while on a DIY 6V6 preamp and found the same things, a bit soft and also a bit microphonic (tube dampers fixed that). But, outstanding character and punch. By the way, if you can move to 12v heaters that opens a big world of 12V6 varieties at very affordable prices. I don't know the heater arrangement in this, and I'm guessing a small 12v transformer would need to be fitted, but if possible, opens lots of doors.
Very unusual to use a 6v6 in a preamp application. 6v6 tubes were very common as power tubes (about 6-7 watts per tube), in guitar amps and also very common in various Console Tube Amplifiers from the 50s and early 60s.
Ordered mine yesterday.
Nice video, Steve. I always believe your reviews and comments are spot right on. In your opinion, how would the Moreplay pair with the Schiit Vidar? I have the Freya S preamp, which I like, but am interested in the "tube sound" from the Moreplay as a sonic option.
Shock, shocked to see the price sticker on the CD cover! (Staggers around with hand on head.)
Great review. I’m definitely planning on building one of their bottlehead crack kits at some point. I just need to buy a pair of headphones that will pair well with it first (the obvious choice would be the HD600/650/6xx). The impedance of my current headphones is way too low.
How would this pair with the Amp Camp Amp you have reviewed from Nelson Pass to create an all DIY system?
Sounds like better caps and components will probably make this pre open up.
Is this better than the Schiit Freya + ?
Enquiring audiophilacs want to know...
The sound itself won't change, but you will gain reliability, tight tolerances, durability, much better component matching, confidence in the system.
When I dabbled in DIY projects many moons ago I used cheap parts to experiment with, and only bought high grade parts when I ended up with a "keeper", something to insert in my audio chain.
When you are just tinkering and experimenting high quality parts cost the earth and were overkill for a gadget that would eventually be torn apart anyway leaving you with heaps of EXPENSIVE parts with no clear purpose in mind.
(Besides, when you bought "standard" parts and you knew what you were doing you could do the "binning" yourself).
When you struck gold on a design you rebuilt it with the expensive parts.
The difference in something as basic as a potentiometer or a toggle switch could be ten times the price. But that was when high grade components were US made and cheap ones came from SE Asia, just as today. (except that now Japan has gone premium).
Given the price delta I suspect that lots of the audio gear being sold is based on "average" grade parts. Industrial grade or "MilSpec" parts were and are VERY costly.
Nice review Steve. I’ve been wondering, when you compare preamps or other gear for that matter, do you connect them to an A/B switch or just direct , then do you say listen to one or two tracks then switch back and forth or do you experience one system for an entire album or session then swap out and repeat? If others wonder too might be an interesting topic for a future vid. Oh! And I loved the short! Do make more.😬
No way that Steve is an A/B switch guy!
Very cool segment on building the kit. Interesting, with a balance control no less. Maybe you can do a follow up once you get a chance to tube roll...
Steve, how does it compare to the similarly priced Schiit Freya+ ?
I'm heading downstairs to audition the Paul Lay recording on Qobuz
🎶🤫🎶
PS
I'm reminded of Jacques Loussier trio "Play Bach".
Paul Lay attempts to jazz up Beethoven....to mixed levels of effectiveness.
A trio might just pull it off...
His Für Elise is getting into Bruce Adolf's "piano puzzler" territory.
Nice rich piano sound tho.
The Ry & Ali Farka outing is one of my favorites 👍
I'm surprised that there is no foil wrap inside the wood cabinet to shield the circuitry.
Another nice review! Very much interesting these Bottlehead’s. One question; I’m not sure about the 3x knobs it’s function. 1x Source select, the others tone controle? Balance?
My Bottlehead BeePre 2 300b preamp is on another level but 3 x the price
I keep considering the BeePree 2. I've built, enjoyed, and sold my Kaiju. Kind of wanted a bit my power output even tho it sounded amazing.
I'd love to know how the BeePree compares to other high end options.
Thanks for this review Steve. Since we’re on the subject of kits, how do you think this preamp would pair with the Elkit TU-8600 integrated amp that you and Herb have favorably reviewed?? Would it be an enhancement and a good match?
Based on what I heard I don’t think that’s a good match. Hey 8600 it’s all about resolution, the more place is not.
Steve, could you review and compare some inexpensive Tube Preamps under $150 USD
Hello, Good Sir.
I have a second generation Conrad Johnson PV-10 preamplifier.
Is it better to send it back to CJ and get it updated, or spend the same money to buy something like this, thanks.
outstanding
Many 'truely' vintage amplifiers and consoles used 6V6GT pt's...
Hi steve how is it compared to the pass labs line preamp? Can you describe it in few words
I am seriously looking at building my first kit in the near future. Also would like a preamp with a very ‘tubey’ sound signature. Unfortunately, having no remote is a dealbreaker for me. Anyone have a suggestion for something just like this with a remote?
You're making it harder to keep making excuses for not trying g a tube sound. I'm wondering how it would pair with my old Magnapan MGlls..I'm running class D power right now, and I like it...some people, right? Lol. I'm really curious how a tube preamp would pair with the Crown...
Had a pair of MGIIIa's back in the day - - Best wishes with your MGII's - bet they're excellent sounding - and personally, I'm fine with the Class D thing - I'm currently running the Bel Canto Ref600m's, which are class D's, I think they're a pretty good match with the 3.7i's.
Hi Steve, great review! I own a moreplay, and last week I purchased an Aegir power amp, which I´m using with PSB X1T speakers, that have 89db sensitivity. I´m missing some bass slam here, so I´m thinking about getting another Aegir, since the moreplay has to main outputs. My plan is to biamp horizontally (or is it better to do it vertically?). I can´t run the Aegirs in mono since the moreplay doesn´t have balanced outputs. Do you think biamping will provide a bigger bass? Thanks!
I don't think that's gonna work, you need more power than just a second Aegir. Get the Vidar2
Can Dave King duplicate the paint job on another? Looks sharp!!
👍
My amp is the Gus Son of Ampsavilla Speakers are Casta C horn Speakers .what do you think Steve
Hey Steve,i have Quicksilver Mid Mono monoblocks,i was wondering what you think of them, ps. Love your cast.
Maybe not an entire episode, but how about a reply to the Freya+ comparison questions?
I don’t have a Freya
My Scott mountain bike is red with black accents. However, as a former carpenter and wood worker I am universally opposed to painting natural wood. But, please continue ….
This is a big fight right now between my wife and I on our new kitchen cabinets. I can't understand why someone would paint beautiful wood.
@@litesaber54yi3 when I posted my comment that was one scenario I was also thinking about. I’m on your side 😉
Can you plug in a turntable into this and use as a phono pre? Or would you need a phono pre before this?
Hi Steve, have any interest having a listen to the Avantone Pro Planars $400 headphones made in the USA by a pro audio manufacturer ? Thanks
Could this be used as a pre amp for headphones amp like topping a90 or thx amps?
Ye olde bottle head !
3kohms+ is a MUCH to high output impedance for a preamp, it will not be able to drive reasonable cables lenghts. Do yourself a favor and find another kit.100 ohms
output impedance is a much better figure. I always try to have a 1:100 impedance relation between preamp out and power amp in. And yes it does mean a lot.
Those wildly 'flagellating' and vibrating power/filter caps on the right need to lose that rubber band and be properly secured to the board w/RTV 4500 or other suitable silicone. There appears to be more than enough room to have used axial caps w/terminal strips, instead of radials..
I'm #667 - the Neighbor of the Beast!
What changed the Foreplay to Moreplay?
Solder part B1 to part Z5 and you will be ok
In these screwed up times a lush sounding preamp is the ticket.
6v6 power tube
Can a noob with no background in doing kits put this thing together?
As Dave said in his part of the video it’s probably not best for a first time kit builder
Instead of the 6V6GT ................try the older coke bottle 6V6G ( Marconi/GE- etc ) , thank me later.
Better comparison would be Schiit Freya+. Bottlehead cheaper assembled.
Agreed - I have a Freya + and really enjoy it, but i'm interested to get a sense of how they differ. I would imagine the Freya is somewhat less tubey, but in a good way.
That's a pretty pricy assembly charge.
Made in 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 ❤ 💙 💜 💖 💗 💘 ❤
Very strange viewer sysem of the day. It consists of 3 pictures - 2 guys, 2 computers and 2 headphones. I must say I don't understand it...
Sorry, but there’s always another one. This is a desktop system with a DIY tube headphone amplifier, I’m just trying to present different kinds of systems. Not the same stuff day after day after day!
The T-shirt looks to say:
Audio BS
hahaha
6V6 is an output tube.
Not this time