JLH 2003 Class A - how good is it?

Yes 1969 is an old 10+10w scheme. https://www.ebay.com/itm/2pcs-2-Two-Channel-JLH-1969-A-CLASS-A-Amplifier-Board-DIY-Kit-ST2N3055-MKP/...
But this is the new 2003 scheme.
First Watt F5 clone retails for $ 700. which is not comparable with the price of JLH.
Most likely for such little money you can’t buy a better-sounding amplifier.

JLH1969 https://youtu.be/bO5wRU8Of7Q

That Ch*nese kit looks like junk! Where's the power transformer? What about. the heat sinks? In this life you get what you pay for!

@ roberjerman This is Kits for the DIY. You yourself buy a case with radiators and a transformer according to your preferences

I would rather hear the opinions of people who really heard how this amplifier sounds.

Hi pumpweel,

Wondering how you went with your quest for DIY satisfaction...

I've built a few of these JLH'69 units.  The kits invariably use poor quality parts and I would avoid these completely.

My approach was to buy the bare boards online (AliExpress) and then source all the parts directly from 1st source suppliers.  The boards I purchased were 'AIYIWA' brand - surprisingly good quality (AliExpress description: "AIYIMA 2Pcs Hood 1969 Class A Audio Amplifier PCB Board Perfect 6 Tube Mute Version Bare PCB").

I then purchased components from Element14 / Mouser / Digikey / RS Components and built up the boards.  You're looking at ~120USD per built up amp (ie. ~240USD for a stereo pair).

These are 10W Class A amps, with capacitive coupled outputs.  They don't play loud nor low, but their midrange is immensely satisfying.

Nothing can replace the involvement of building your own equipment and if you're keen to do so, you'll most likely find it a satisfying experience.  As robejerman points out, though, the power transformer(s) - I used one per channel - and the casing will also need to be acquired and built up, but if you have the time and enthusiasm, go for and have fun while you do.

Ross