Thoughts on this DIY attenuator

  • Thread starter Thread starter nate_dennis
  • Start date Start date
I know something about attenuators- gave that a quick read, and I think it would, indeed, work.

Only issue is that you can sometimes buy used, commercially-built attenuators for about $100 or so. The usually have more features and set points of attenuation that the two that one will have, and you know it will work. Also, if you decide an attenuator is not for you, you should have no trouble reselling the branded ones- selling a home-brew may be difficult.
 
The easiest attenuator you can build uses an Lpad. Stick an Lpad, two jacks and some wires in a box and you're good to go. It's like a 15 minute build. Google for more info.
 
The 'better'attenuators have EQ 'features', since your speaker impedence is a 'nominal' figure, and is absolutely frequency dependent.
 
All,
Thank you for the responses. I'm interested, now, in this LPAD idea. I'm not 100% what it means, but I'm looking into it.

ranjam said:
The 'better'attenuators have EQ 'features', since your speaker impedence is a 'nominal' figure, and is absolutely frequency dependent.
Click to expand...

Can you elaborate on this? (BTW this would be my first DIY build.)

Thanks again guys.
 
Ok, so I'm getting pretty stoked to get this going. I've done a lot of looking into L-Pads. I like the idea. The only thing that scares me is this; would a 100w L-Pad be able safely handle a 40w Fender Hot Rod Deluxe? I've heard "20-25W" then I saw a guy build one for a "30w" amp. So . . . could I safely push it out to 40? Thanks guys. You all rock!
 
When it comes to wattage, it is just necessary to remember that your amp needs to "see" a certain load from teh speakers. As long as you can match the wattage of your amp, going higher can do no harm -physically speaking. It could have a negative impact on your sound, in that the higher the attenuation, the more loss of high end.

100w Lpad should easily provide enough attenuation for your 40w amp.


If you havent seen this website yet, I highly recommend that you take a look: L-PADS

This link provides a calculator to define exactly what your Lpad resistance should be for your desired attenuation: Adam's Amplifiers: Attenuation

Aaaaaaaaand there's a ton of information here: Dummy Load and Power Attenuator Projects - The Best DIY Project
 
  • Like
Reactions: JCH
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top