K-12M Tube Kit

About the K-12M Tube Kit

The S-5 Electronics K-12M Tube Amplifier Kit is a DIY push-pull stereo power amplifier rated at 8 watts per channel. It uses two 11MS8 tubes per channel and includes a kit assembly and operating manual, drilling template, and schematic. The kit comes with a 7.25" × 9.5" pine board for mounting components but does not include an enclosure. The amplifier features metallized polyester capacitors for coupling and DC blocking, Samsung aluminum electrolytic capacitors for power supply filtering, and upgraded ceramic tube sockets to prevent melting issues. The circuit includes small ceramic capacitors and improved grounding to reduce noise and hum. The amp is noted for its quiet operation, lack of transformer hum, and superior sound quality compared to typical mass-produced solid-state amplifiers, with tight bass, superb midrange, and clear high frequencies. The power transformer runs hot, and the tubes operate at high temperatures, which should be considered when building an enclosure. The kit is suitable for builders with basic soldering and electronics skills and can be assembled in a few hours. It has been reviewed positively in audioXpress magazine and is recommended for those seeking a high-quality, affordable tube amplifier kit.