This circuit is derived from the Portable Headphone Amplifier featuring an NPN/PNP compound pair emitter follower output stage. An improved output driving capability is gained by making this a push-pull Class-A arrangement. Output power can reach 427mW RMS into a 32 Ohm load at a fixed standing current of 100mA. The single voltage gain stage allows the easy implementation of a shunt-feedback circuitry giving excellent frequency stability.
The above mentioned shunt-feedback configuration also allows the easy addition of frequency dependent networks in order to obtain an useful, unobtrusive, switchable Tilt control (optional). When SW1 is set in the first position a gentle, shelving bass lift and treble cut is obtained. The central position of SW1 allows a flat frequency response, whereas the third position of this switch enables a shelving treble lift and bass cut.
Before setting quiescent current rotate the volume control P1 to the minimum, Trimmer R6 to zero resistance and Trimmer R3 to about the middle of its travel.
Connect a suitable headphone set or, better, a 33 Ohm 1/2W resistor to the amplifier output.
Connect a Multimeter, set to measure about 10Vdc fsd, across the positive end of C5 and the negative ground. Switch on the supply and rotate R3 in order to read about 7.7-7.8V on the Multimeter display.
Switch off the supply, disconnect the Multimeter and reconnect it, set to measure at least 200mA fsd, in series to the positive supply of the amplifier. Switch on the supply and rotate R6 slowly until a reading of about 100mA is displayed. Check again the voltage at the positive end of C5 and readjust R3 if necessary. Wait about 15 minutes, watch if the current is varying and readjust if necessary.
