attenuator into my 50 watt tube amp

[garfo]

So, I was checking this Dr Z attenuator, the Brake lite and it is a good idea for getting more out of the power tubes and still play the amp in a level that isn't killer in a rehearsal room or small venue.
My concerns are that this device is supposed to handle up to 45 watts, and my Bugera V55 combo is rated 50 watts.
I'm running it at 8 ohms and I'm not sure about this but aren't the tubes actually only working around 45 watts or so?
So, killer question is, is it safe to run this attenuator on my Bugera V55 combo???
Has anyone tried this specific combination, or something similar?
(By the way, my idea was not to run Master on 10, but around

[gtr2]

Short answer is, it wouldn't be recommended.  I'd go with one of the weber mass models rated for 100 watts.

Josh

[gtr2]

http://www.tedweber.com/atten.htm

[selfdestroyer]

Has anyone here made a attenuator? I just haven't seen to many DIY ones.. is there a reason for this?

[garfo]

Has anyone here made a attenuator? I just haven't seen to many DIY ones.. is there a reason for this?

Yeah, I was questioning this myself.I've seen some people who have buit, but I think you get stuck to just a limit in terms of power.If you want to get to 100 watts or more I don't think it is that easy or cheap to find the parts.
Found a project:
http://www.guitarplayer.com/article/power-attenuator-project/930

[Thomas_H]

Its not really a problem to DIY one.
You only need to do proper math regarding input and output impedance (resistance) when combining a few high power resistors.
Doing a good one always includes a coil to bring it closer to a real loudspeaker.

They have done a great job in offering a kit: https://www.tube-town.net/diy/tt-pos/tt-posx-en.html

[hammerheadmusicman]

I have a dr z maz 18 amp, and I built a dr z air brake.

The break lite is up to 45 watts, and the air brake is the pricey one which does up to 100 watts.

I built an air brake and it sound killer.

I used this layout, complete with mouser numbers!

Be sure to buy the taps for the resistor, as they don't come with it.

http://www.andyharrison.net/files/AirbrakeLayout.jpg

Like I said, I use mine all the time, and it's not a tone destroyer like a lot of these kind of devices.

George

[davent]

Twenty-nine page thread on the Airbrake at the Amp Garage. Pretty sure you need to register to see the pictures but can still read the posts.

http://ampgarage.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2402

[selfdestroyer]

I have a dr z maz 18 amp, and I built a dr z air brake.

The break lite is up to 45 watts, and the air brake is the pricey one which does up to 100 watts.

I built an air brake and it sound killer.

I used this layout, complete with mouser numbers!

Be sure to buy the taps for the resistor, as they don't come with it.

http://www.andyharrison.net/files/AirbrakeLayout.jpg

Like I said, I use mine all the time, and it's not a tone destroyer like a lot of these kind of devices.

George

Thanks for all the info, Gives me something to read up on and see if its cost effective to build one or buy one. I did find a updated layout for the airbreak you posted and thought I would share it.
http://ampgarage.com/forum/files/attenuator_layout_final_195.pdf

[hammerheadmusicman]

As a guide, mine cost about £80 to build,
They are £200 to buy. In the  UK obviously.

[garfo]

I have a dr z maz 18 amp, and I built a dr z air brake.

The break lite is up to 45 watts, and the air brake is the pricey one which does up to 100 watts.

I built an air brake and it sound killer.

I used this layout, complete with mouser numbers!

Be sure to buy the taps for the resistor, as they don't come with it.

http://www.andyharrison.net/files/AirbrakeLayout.jpg

Like I said, I use mine all the time, and it's not a tone destroyer like a lot of these kind of devices.

George

George, I was checking the parts on mouser(Portugal) and you can only order one of the coils(D100K25R) above 18 pieces.That's a bit pricey.They have orders that you can order only one, for example D100K25RE.Are they the same, do they both work equaly?

[hammerheadmusicman]

Really sorry dude, my grandad actually ordered the components for me as a birthday present!

So I have idea about the mouser ordering Etc..

Someone here will know though!

[garfo]

I checked with mouser.it's alright to get Only one.
By the way, is it necessary to cover the componentes with the special gel to dissipate heat?

[hammerheadmusicman]

We didn't, as long as its a big box with enough air in, it should be fine, my box has never felt 'hot to the touch', even after heavy gigs.

If it'd put your mind at rest, it wouldn't do any harm..

[garfo]

George, by the way, what impedances does this projecto work with?my amp is eorking on 8ohms at the mo.