I got my Tode done!

[Pfenning]

It still needs a finish on the cabinet, but I tested it out this morning. It took me about 12 hours to build, and it sounds great (other than my crappy playing). I Plugged in my Strat and my Eastman 335 style guitar (with humbuckers) and got some good tones pretty quick. Clean to crunchy, it's really easy to dial in with the brake control, the feedback control, and the guitar volume. I was diggin' it, then I had to stop and make the family breakfast. I'll post some pics after the cabinet is finished. Great work as usual Doc.

Pfenning

[willspeed]

I'm jealous! For some reason, even though mine shipped on 12/19, it *still* hasn't shown up - and USPS shows no tracking information. 

[Pfenning]

I did hit one snag. The EL84 tube won't fit through chassis hole. The top of the tube slipped right in, but the base of the tube is larger and won't fit through. I had to install it from the back side, which involves loosening the stand offs allowing it to slip in, then tightening the stand off's and inserting the tube into the socket. I tried a couple vintage EL84's I have, and they slipped in no problem. Those Sovtek's are just a bit bigger on the base apparently.

Pfenning

[Pfenning]

Here are a couple iPhone pictures. I'm still trying to decide on a handle, I have a couple to choose from. That blue tolex really pops. It's a cool kit for sure. I got some recording gear for Christmas, so I'll see if I can get some tones posted tomorrow. Depends on how bad I feel.  Happy New Year!

(https://forum.bottlehead.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi156.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft23%2Fpfenningv%2Fphoto-1_zpsddf5023b.jpg&hash=2769836b109a806a828c498e42d427a57031fa91)

(https://forum.bottlehead.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi156.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft23%2Fpfenningv%2Fphoto-1_zpsb1ddc9b0.jpg&hash=0fb132cb57b00f06b8f84e5674ca2ef742dd160c)

(https://forum.bottlehead.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi156.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Ft23%2Fpfenningv%2Fphoto-1_zps42c2be42.jpg&hash=4e630483bba3335783265824ded6b3d45f551602)


Pfenning

[Doc B.]

Wow! That looks awesome! Hmm, you might have to sub in a blue power LED. The blue glow would make Mr. Bottlehead look like a Chinese 2A3.

[Doc B.]

@Will,

Eileen is going to check with USPS to see if she can track down your Tode kit. USPS is closed tomorrow so it may take an extra day to get an answer. If it has vaporized we will get another going to you ASAP.

[Doc B.]

My one deviation from stock on the Tode I'm currently using was a leather handle to replace the plastic one. It was long enough ago that I don't have the seller info in myebay, but I recall that I found a lot of choices by searching for trunk handles.

[Pfenning]

Thanks. That's exactly what I need for a handle. The stock one is just a bit long with the corner protectors. I have a blue led I might try to swap in.

Pfenning

[Doc B.]

OK I tracked it down. This is the one that I bought:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/L-4244-BLACK-LEATHER-PREMIUM-GRADE-TRUNK-HANDLE-/360129684063?pt=Architectural_Garden&hash=item53d966e25f

It fits in the stock metal end caps. I put them close enough together that the handle is permanently arched, as I don't like fumbling to get the handle up off the cabinet in order to get my fingers under it. I should add that it is very thick and has a very nice feel to it.

[willspeed]

Thanks, Doc!

[STURMJ]

Another option for you.
http://www.brettunsvillage.com/trunks/howto/parts/

They have many options (colors, sizes and configurations) Just make sure you also get the corresponding endcap/bracket for the strap you pick. They also have brass nails!!!