5E3 Deluxe

TOPOLOGY

Two 12AY7 channels with high and low sensitivity inputs for each. Separate volume controls for each channel, but wired in such a way as to make them interactive. Simple one knob tone control.  A second gain stage is supplied by one half of a 12AX7; the other half used as a cathodyne phase inverter. No negative feedback. Two cathode biased 6V6 power tubes drive a single 12″ speaker at about 15 watts.

DESCRIPTION

The tweed Deluxe is one of the most popular amps of all time. A cranked Deluxe is the quintessential example of tweed amp distortion, and the clean sounds available are rich and full. The 5E3 is a simple design with remarkable range and versatility. It takes many hours of exploration to unlock all the tones this circuit possesses, and it will surprise and reward you at every turn.

Building a great 5E3 is all about the details. It’s not one thing; it’s everything. Component choices, lead dress, everything matters.  My version of this amp has been refined through multiple builds and years of experimentation. It includes several tweaks that reduce blocking distortion, improve the tone control, and minimize noise.

BASE CONFIGURATION

Weber 12A125 speaker, Mercury Magnetics transformers, Jupiter Yellow capacitors, carbon composition resistors.

Base Price                                   $1700

OPTIONS

Speakers

  • Weber A12Q                            +$20
  • Celestion Greenback                -$10
  • Your choice                               TBD

Transformers

  • Heyboer output transformer      -$25

Capacitors

  • Sozo Blue                                 -$10
  • Jupiter Red                              +$50

Resistors

  • Carbon film                               -$10
Big Box Version

This is the same great amp housed in a 20″ x 22″ cabinet similar to the one used for the 5E5 Pro and 5G9 Tremolux. The bigger cabinet with a single 12″ speaker changes the tone of the 5E3 in surprising ways. The sound fills the room and is richer and more open. The 5E3’s beautiful cleans really shine in this configuration.

  • 20″ x 22″ x 10.5″ cabinet          +$75