We have investigated individual stages, we have looked at functional blocks, and we have seen how classic designs were configured. Rather than merely observing, it is now time to put that knowledge to use, and design an amplifier.

In previous editions of this book, it was suggested that an old amplifier could be cannibalized for its transformers and chassis. Sadly, this approach can no longer be justified because classic amplifiers are now likely to be 40 years old, and the amount of work expended in reusing components that might fail within 10 years is prohibitive. It is now cheaper and easier to make an amplifier with completely new components.