Sal Brisindi wrote:I have been wanting to build my son the same 5E1 amp for a while, I probably have most, if not all of the parts. Do you have any photos of the amp?
I've been lurking but decided to register to answer this post.
Sal, my son built an octal Champ clone (5y3, 6ls7, 6v6gt). I bought a Fender sand amp off of craigslist, removed the electronics, punched holes for tube sockets, transformers, and lug strips.
I showed him how to solder it up, measure voltages, and look at the signal on a scope to check distortion and output power.
It is his favorite amp. Plus it is small enough that the 13 year old can carry it.
I'm a big fan of building amps but had more fun showing my son how to build one. Plus I spent less than $50 (including the original price of the amp).
Go for it.