Maybe this is the winter you build something!

After almost 40 years of not doing any DIY (used to build stuff in college), I decided to build a pair of speakers (just before Covid hit). I got a lot of satisfaction from it and it rekindled my interest in doing more. Since then, I've built a stereo amp, four pairs of monoblock amps, two preamps with another almost complete, a pair of subwoofers, and another pair of speakers. 

Check out my  Virtual System for some photos. 

It's very rewarding to build something and have it perform as well or better than expected. This hasn't always been the case and some have required some redesign to get there, but each has been a step up from the previous build. 

My winter projects will include completing my new preamp (balanced 6SN7 design with custom Arduino code to control input selection, relay stepped attenuator, remote control, etc.), and building a new pair of speakers.

@asvjerry As one industry guru said back in my early days of doing home automation: "Just because you can, doesn't mean you should."

@waytoomuchstuff , yes sir, there are places and things I know enough of Not to get involved with...

One can 'crackle-finish' the surface of wood with a microwave transformer.

I'll mess with neon (high volts, low amps) but microwave units are the reverse...from what I understand, which IS enough.

That, and fooling around with one sans the Faraday cage is just plain stupid.

(But it is amazing how long a cockroach can stand exposure in one....)

I have a pair of 80 watt Conn organ tube amps I'm going to be rebuilding this winter.  I also have a tube preamp I built around 20 years ago I might try and get up and running again if I can get the Conns done.

I’m just starting out with DIY. Decided to make some balanced interconnects.

Great way to learn/practice soldering! Fun and satisfying too!

Also saved a lot percentage wise vs buying new.

A bit early for Winter. 

Great thread @erik_squires!