Vibro Champ Preamp - DIY tube pre amp kit

Vibro Champ Preamp is a guitar preamp housed in a die-cast aluminum enclosure. The circuit stays faithful to the original Vibro Champ, featuring the Blackface-era tone stack with a middle control and tube-driven tremolo. Vibro Champ Preamp can be used either as an alternative preamp connected to a guitar amplifier's effects return or as a standalone effect. The circuit uses a 12V / 1A power supply, and the 250VDC voltage required for the tubes is generated with a boost regulator.

The kit includes all required components and comprehensive instructions, making assembly easy (and fun!). Power supply sold separately. Our technical support is available via email without limitations!

Features

• Vibro Champ preamp based on the original Blackface-era circuit
• Tube-driven tremolo
• Blackface tone stack with middle control
• Controls: Volume, Treble, Middle, Bass, Speed, Intensity
• Switch: Range
• Operating voltage: 12V / 460mA power supply (2.1mm, center positive)
• Tubes: 2 x ECC83 / 12AX7
• 250VDC anode voltage for tubes is generated with a boost regulator
• Dimensions: 188 x 119 x 57 mm (excluding protrusions)
• Enclosure: 1590D, drilled by the builder
• High-quality PCB with plated-through holes and silkscreen printing
• All components are of very high quality
• Suitable as an alternative preamp or effect pedal

Kit Instructions

Instructions for building the kit can be found here:

https://en.uraltone.com/blog/vibro-champ-preamp/

These pages also provide downloadable documents prepared for the kit. A schematic may be supplied separately in some cases.

Browse through the instructions beforehand to see what the building process is like and what kind of guidance is available. The parts list shows the components included in the kit at the time of sale.

We do not include printed instructions with the kit.

What does the UralTone Vibro Champ Preamp kit include?

The price includes all parts required to build the preamp. Tubes are selected separately, so if you would like tubes included, select 2 x ECC83S preamp tubes with your order, or purchase other preferred tube brands from our online store.

ECC83S JJ preamp tube

The kit does not include a 12V power supply. A suitable power supply, for example:

https://en.uraltone.com/power-supply-12vdc-3a-2-1mm-center-positive.html

Alternatively, you can use pedalboard power supplies such as CIOKS DC7, SOL, or Crux (12VDC setting).

Who is this kit suitable for?

Anyone interested in tube amplifier building and classic guitar tones. It is important to reserve enough uninterrupted time and focus on the task. A cup of coffee or tea helps. Vibro Champ Preamp is an excellent intermediate step between effect pedals and amplifier building. The kit is also well suited for beginner amplifier builders.

How quickly can the Vibro Champ Preamp be built?

An experienced builder can assemble the amplifier in a single evening. Hobbyists may require somewhat more time.

What tools do you need to assemble this kit?

Basic tools are sufficient, but beginners especially should invest in reasonable quality tools.

A soldering station and solder must be good enough to ensure quality solder joints. Always buy your soldering station from a knowledgeable electronics supplier who can recommend the right equipment for this type of work.

We have assembled a beginner's tool kit that makes building easy and will take you a long way in the hobby. You can choose the tools you need from the package:

TOOL KIT FOR BUILDING AUDIO EQUIPMENT

In addition, you only really need a few screwdrivers. If you are unsure whether your current soldering station (perhaps inherited from your grandfather) is sufficient, send us a message and we'll help determine whether it is suitable.

How can I get support if I have questions I cannot find answers to?

A device built according to the instructions will work. Therefore, always read the instructions carefully.

If something is still unclear, you can contact us by email. Unlimited technical support by email is always included. Please note that we cannot provide support by phone or in-store, as our technical support staff do not work in the store or answer our phone lines.

End Result?

An affordable Fender-style front end that can be connected as an alternative preamp to another amplifier's effects return or used as an effect pedal. The result is a durable, great-sounding boutique device at a very affordable price.

A kit-built amplifier assembled according to the instructions represents the finest boutique clones available and cannot be compared to mass-produced reissue versions, which neither sonically nor structurally represent the original masterpieces of tube amplifier craftsmanship.

WARNING: Building musical instrument electronics is highly addictive!

NOTE: Components supplied with the kit may differ from those shown in photos, instructions, or parts lists due to component availability.