DIY Projects – Designs & Builds

This section brings together the various electronics projects I’ve designed and built over the years on the channel. From audio circuits and practical workshop tools to Arduino-based builds and custom solutions, these are projects that started as ideas and were developed step-by-step into working designs.

Each project is supported by video content that walks through the thinking behind the design, the build process, and real-world testing. The aim isn’t just to present a finished circuit, but to show how it comes together, so you can understand it, adapt it, and use it as a starting point for your own builds.

 

NOTE: This section is still under development and the list is by no means complete. I will be adding projects from my portfolio as time permits.

Bluetooth Module for Tube Radio

Through-Hole Version

This project presents a purpose-designed PCB that combines a power supply and preamplifier to work with a readily available Bluetooth module. It integrates into a tube radio using the heater supply and phono input, allowing for a fully reversible modification that greatly improves everyday usability.

The design has been adopted and successfully used by many viewers of the channel, proving it as a practical and repeatable solution.

Magic Eye Bluetooth Switch

This optional add-on is a Magic Eye switch designed to work alongside the through-hole Bluetooth module, allowing the radio’s tuning indicator to double as a power switch to the module board, and thus reduce noise when the module is not in use. 

SMD Full Version

This version of the Bluetooth module is built using SMD components and includes the Magic Eye switch functionality directly on the board. It offers a more compact, integrated solution for those brave enough to tackle SMD soldering. Designed for clean and reversible installations, it keeps the original look and feel of the set intact. 

Capacitor Leakage Tester

This project presents a capacitor leakage tester designed to evaluate capacitors under their actual rated voltage, giving a far more realistic picture of their condition than low-voltage testers. It’s particularly useful when working on vintage equipment, where leakage at full operating voltage is often the deciding factor between keeping or replacing a component.

The design has been built and used by many viewers of the channel, proving it to be a reliable and practical tool in real workshop conditions. The accompanying video covers the design, construction, and how to use it effectively in practice.

Restoration Process

I normally document each restoration as a series, creating as many videos as needed to properly cover the entire process. Some projects turn out to be more involved than expected, so the series naturally grows with additional episodes. The aim is not just to show the work, but to build a useful reference that other restorers can turn to when tackling similar sets of their own.

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