I've noticed that a lot of DIY amplifier videos, like this one [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDTJDtUCe90](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDTJDtUCe90), are racking up views and positive comments, despite most of them showcasing poor-quality or impractical circuits. When I search 'DIY amplifier,' it's mostly lousy designs, like a supposed 100W amplifier made from a hodgepodge of random resistors and capacitors. I've only come across one or two videos that feature decent amplifier projects, while most just repeat basic common emitter amplifiers and claim powers that are unrealistic for such simple builds. What gives?
2 Answers
Check out JohnAudioTech's videos if you haven't! He usually includes some solid builds, but watch out—most of the TDA series chips he uses are discontinued now, as cheap class D chips got super popular, meaning a lot of the ICs out there are fakes. Still, he's got some interesting content.
For a solid DIY setup, consider using something like the Texas Instruments TPA3116D2. That chip takes care of a lot of the tough stuff for you, and with a good setup, you can pull 100W mono without a hitch, assuming you have a strong enough power supply—like 12V at 8A. It’s basically what companies like Fosi Audio are doing, and it sounds pretty decent, although not quite as good as high-end class A/B amps.
Yeah, it looks good, but that chip shortage is a bummer. It’s tough when the good parts are hard to find!