I wanted to post a follow-up after the basics class for the benefit of those who might be considering attending future classes.
First, a hearty thank-you to Doc and everyone at Bottlehead for accommodating us. They did a tremendous job, both in content and presentation, and I'm very grateful for the opportunity to learn from some real experts (and fantastic people).
The shop itself was immaculate; these folks really take pride in all aspects of what they do. My background in construction management nudges me to look for the little things about the work environment, and at Bottlehead, their professionalism and dedication to quality was clearly evident in all respects (down to Doc's waxed floors - I have no idea if they were or not, but I'd have no problem applying the 5 second rule in the lab).
With respect to the content, it was everything a newb like me could have hoped for. Even the handouts were right on target and, I expect, will prove to be useful throughout the duration of my experience in tube electronics. The presentation of the materials was focused but far from rigid, and the guys really went to great lengths to [patiently] humor our questions and comments. To be sure, there were plenty of laughs - this isn't a closed-book finals by any means. My fellow classmates were similarly just the very best of people and I enjoyed our time immensely.
Bottom line, I came in with but the most basic understanding of the subject and left with not only the ability to 'read' (and draw) a basic constructed circuit but a new confidence for diving into reading more complex schematics (and the basis for the respective design elements).
Listening to the shop system upstairs was... brilliant. It was, both visually and aurally, an experience I'll never forget. (The growler of K
