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The Dynaco Tube Audio Forum

Dedicated to the restoration and preservation of all original Dynaco tube audio equipment - Customer support for Tubes4hifi VTA tube amp and preamp kits and all Dynakitparts.com products


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    ST-70 output transformers

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    moodyj2000


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    Join date : 2023-01-18

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    Post by moodyj2000 Wed Feb 01, 2023 3:11 pm

    Still working through all the issues on my build. The original output transformers had the leads cut just short of my comfort level for the connections to the V2 and V7. I would have left more slack but I guess the original builder just cut them to the length required. I am thinking about getting a few two lug terminal strips and installing them on the transformer mounting bolts. I could then wire to them and extend to the leads on the tube sockets. Anybody see anything wrong with this other than aesthetics?
    Roy Mottram
    Roy Mottram
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    Post by Roy Mottram Wed Feb 01, 2023 3:16 pm

    should be fine
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    moodyj2000


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    Post by moodyj2000 Wed Feb 01, 2023 3:19 pm

    I could also splice wires onto the existing and shrink wrap the junction. I know either would work but would there be any preference?
    Roy Mottram
    Roy Mottram
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    Post by Roy Mottram Wed Feb 01, 2023 3:21 pm

    your personal choice
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    moodyj2000


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    Post by moodyj2000 Wed Feb 01, 2023 4:27 pm

    Any swag on the wire size? I searched and can see diagrams but nothing that has them marked.
    Roy Mottram
    Roy Mottram
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    Post by Roy Mottram Wed Feb 01, 2023 4:56 pm

    18 or 20 gauge stranded wire
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    moodyj2000


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    Post by moodyj2000 Wed Feb 01, 2023 5:11 pm

    That brings up a whole other question. I have a lot of 22 awg and 18 awg solid core pre-tinned wire from working a Fisher 400 where everyone recommends solid core. I've noticed several references to using stranded on the ST-70 even though the original wire was solid core. Any reason? I saw one site where they recommended stranded to protect the PCB's.
    Roy Mottram
    Roy Mottram
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    Post by Roy Mottram Thu Feb 02, 2023 11:40 pm

    it's personal preference, but after having worked on literally HUNDREDS of Dynaco tube amps, the number one problem is cold solder joints using solid core wire.
    Would you rather have ONE conductor with poor connection or a DOZEN good conductor connections?
    If you are a PRO and have a super HOT iron where you can FLOW solder for a total connection in less than 2 seconds then by all means do so.
    So for the other 99% of people who solder, I always recommend a HOT iron and stranded wire.
    I've been soldering for 50+ years and was certified in the military (45 years ago) at their highest level and I always recommend stranded wire.
    Solid wire MAY have some advantages, if it's pure 99.99% silver wire.
    The main reason SOME people like solid wire is you can make straight bends in it.

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