Bottlehead Forum

Bottlehead Kits => Eros Phono => Topic started by: last lemming on January 12, 2021, 08:23:48 AM

Title: First Post - Hello - I am a sponge - teach me!
Post by: last lemming on January 12, 2021, 08:23:48 AM
So, after being in audio for 25 years plus, I decided I wanted to dig a little deeper and "build my own".

Though I've never done anything like this, other then solder basic wiring and speaker terminals, I bought the new Eros.

I also purchased a new temp controlled soldering iron and heat gun combo, some solder of course, and two soldering practice kits to give a better chance of soldering success once I start the kit.  the kit is 4 weeks +/- out so I've got some time to up my skills.

So, I wanted to say hello, and in about 4 weeks I'm sure you will be hearing more from me.

Greg
Title: Re: First Post - Hello - I am a sponge - teach me!
Post by: Paul Birkeland on January 12, 2021, 12:13:48 PM
A little practice goes a long way!  Be sure the solder you get is leaded, as the unleaded stuff is tough to work with.
Title: Re: First Post - Hello - I am a sponge - teach me!
Post by: Thermioniclife on January 12, 2021, 12:52:12 PM
Good call buying some soldering kits to start with. Don't be afraid to apply heat to most components as most are not very sensitive to heat. In the time that you wait for your kit to arrive download the manual and read and reread it a few times. B.H. kits manuals are quite well done. Another note would be to have somebody else check your work if you are unsure, extra eyes can pick up a mistake that you may have missed. Having said this I can say you will be successful and enjoy your product and the journey you took to get there.
Best wishes,
Title: Re: First Post - Hello - I am a sponge - teach me!
Post by: Natural Sound on January 12, 2021, 05:11:52 PM
You'll be fine. Just take your time, ask questions along the way and most importantly have fun.
Title: Re: First Post - Hello - I am a sponge - teach me!
Post by: Paul Birkeland on January 20, 2021, 10:58:12 AM
There should be a voltage change if both channels drop out and it will be helpful to get the Eros to the point where it isn't passing signal, then check the voltages again. 
Title: Re: First Post - Hello - I am a sponge - teach me!
Post by: last lemming on January 22, 2021, 04:16:23 PM
So I got my practice kits in and soldered them up.  Was pretty straight forward, but I chalk that up to having a temperature controlled soldering iron with nice tips, so more the machine than me!
Title: Re: First Post - Hello - I am a sponge - teach me!
Post by: Deke609 on January 22, 2021, 04:46:08 PM
While you're waiting for the BH kit to arrive, I'd suggest getting a good pair of mini pliers and side cutters. My favorite and most used pair of mini pliers are the Xcelite 378M.  I love these things.  I much prefer their very slight serration to smooth jaws - no slipping when crimping the ends of leads.  Also get a good pair of side cutters.

Crimping practice might be worth doing.  For example, create a 1/4 inch loop of wire and solder 5 or 6 small pieces of wire to it like rays from the sun - with the goal of making the crimps firm enough that they don't slip when you zap them with solder. 

cheers, Derek