Transformer swapping

MesieBooga · Oct 6, 2005

I have a Non Simul IIC+ with a 105 transformer. Can I pop it in my Simul version :?:

Boogiebabies · Oct 7, 2005

Yes. But why bother. I dont think there is enough Mojo in the world for a laborious job like that. The difference would, on an audible level seem nominal. It really depends on what type of plate voltage the 100's put out.
In a MK IIB the PT was only putting out 450 plate volts. The 105 puts out 483. The MK IV is 460. Under load, the less plate voltage available, the more you may get a sag type response. Some people like sag and some people like attack.

MesieBooga · Oct 7, 2005

Right. I have a really Nice IIC+ without the Simul that sounds fabtastic! I'm not going to mess with it. I was thinking of taking that 105 and putting it in my Simul.

Boogiebabies · Oct 7, 2005

At least now you can see how a power transformer can react if it cant put out the juice. The 100 may be a lower voltage PT, but may sound sweeter.
The 105 is very stoudt and has IMHO enough reserve to keep the amp tight. The fact that both amps have enough filtering to keep a russian sub running also helps. Very low noise, ripple current and power storage for days. My SLO 100 is the same way. 500 plate volts and a massive array of filter caps. That is one tight amp as well. I still prefer the IIC+ over any amp made in any era. The MK IV and Road King are the closest for me.

MesieBooga · Oct 7, 2005

Boogiebabies said:
At least now you can see how a power transformer can react if it cant put out the juice. The 100 may be a lower voltage PT, but may sound sweeter.
The 105 is very stoudt and has IMHO enough reserve to keep the amp tight. The fact that both amps have enough filtering to keep a russian sub running also helps. Very low noise, ripple current and power storage for days. My SLO 100 is the same way. 500 plate volts and a massive array of filter caps. That is one tight amp as well. I still prefer the IIC+ over any amp made in any era. The MK IV and Road King are the closest for me.

I heard a rumour that a few early Dual Recs (I know you have one) had the Deyoung Transformers. Ever heard that? Seen one? Wonder what a Deyoung Tranny would sound like in a IIC+?!

Boogiebabies · Oct 9, 2005

The DR I have is # 23X. Both transformers are Schumacher, but the power transformer and output transformer are unike any other one used in a DR past # 500. As far as the circuit is is 98% a ripoff of the SLO 100 and voiced differently in the power section.

Regarding a DeYoung transformer, you may never hear anything so detailed and accurate in your life. I have a 1993 SLO 100 with the DeYoung PT and OT. Not only does the PT put out 497-500 plate volts, but the OT is 100% audiophile grade as well. A very accurate amp.

if you want a 105 built, call Schumacher and ask them for the specs. Then you can have Heyboer, Mercury Magnetics or maybe even DeYoung make you a copy. In actuality, it is just a robust copy of the Fender 100 watt twin/showman design with an 8 ohm tap. Schumacher is still in the transformer business, but they are more geared towards battery chargers, more like converting 117V into 12V with the proper amperage to recharge a car battery. They may be able to build you one as well, buy I doubt they are interested in a one off.

MesieBooga · Oct 9, 2005

The guys at Soldano say that Transformer is the major difference of the SLO and HR series. I've had both- it is punchier.

MesieBooga · Oct 9, 2005

I just recently got a great sounding early Triple Rec. It is tighter on the bottom end and it sounds punchier than my Duals...Different Transformers too. It certainly is better sounding than all of my previous Dual Recs. (my previous addiction :wink: )