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Lundahl LL1688/120mA – high-voltage SE output transformer with three primary loads

BTB lists the Lundahl LL1688/120mA as the higher-current single-ended version of the large LL1688 family. It provides primary loads of approximately 5.5, 9.2 or 20.5 kΩ and is structurally intended for high-voltage output stages such as correctly operated 845 circuits.

The public LL1688 data sheet confirms the common winding and mechanical construction but gives air-gap, primary-inductance and frequency-response data only for the LL1688/70mA. Those three figures are therefore not transferred to the 120 mA version.

Suitable applications

  • High-current 845 single-ended output stages with a calculated load line
  • Other high-voltage power triodes whose current and signal swing suit the confirmed 120 mA version
  • Primary loads of approximately 5.5, 9.2 or 20.5 kΩ
  • 4, 8 and 16 Ω loudspeakers using the documented secondary arrangements
  • Mono and stereo high-voltage projects using one output transformer per channel
  • New designs with verified insulation, cooling, load line and mechanical support

Version-specific data status

BTB model designation
LL1688/120mA
Current figure stated by BTB
120 mA
Publicly confirmed air gap for the 120 mA version
Not stated in the currently accessible LL1688 data sheet
Publicly confirmed primary inductance for the 120 mA version
Not stated in the currently accessible LL1688 data sheet
Publicly confirmed frequency response for the 120 mA version
Not stated in the currently accessible LL1688 data sheet
Required verification
Check the component marking, delivery documentation or a version-specific manufacturer confirmation before final circuit design

Common LL1688 family data

Product type
Large single-ended valve output transformer
Turns ratio
50+50:1+2+2+1+1+2+2+1
Primary impedances
Approx. 5.5, 9.2 or 20.5 kΩ plate load
Secondary impedances
4, 8 or 16 Ω, depending on primary load and secondary connection
Primary DC resistance
Approx. 260 Ω with all primary sections in series
Secondary DC resistances
Approx. 0.3, 0.7, 0.7 and 0.4 Ω for the individual sections
Primary leakage inductance
Approx. 7 mH
Thermal primary-current limit
200 mA according to the 10 W winding-loss criterion; not a substitute for the magnetic version rating
Maximum primary signal voltage in SE operation
Approx. 530 V RMS at 30 Hz with the complete primary in series
Magnetic power limit at 20.5 kΩ
Approx. 15 W at 30 Hz in single-ended operation
Magnetic power limit at 9.2 kΩ
Approx. 30 W at 30 Hz in single-ended operation
Magnetic power limit at 5.5 kΩ
Approx. 60 W at 30 Hz in single-ended operation
Winding loss
Approximately 0.15, 0.25 or 0.5 dB depending on the primary load
Primary-to-secondary dielectric test
4 kV AC
Winding-to-core dielectric test
2 kV AC
Core
Lundahl audio C-core
Winding construction
Highly sectioned, harmonically proportioned winding with low capacitance
Construction
Open, unpotted frame for installation inside a closed amplifier enclosure
Dimensions
Approx. 140 × 95 × 95 mm
Mounting pattern
Approx. 58 × 118 mm with four M4 mounting points
Weight
Approx. 4 kg

Primary loads and loudspeaker matching

20.5 kΩ plate load
8 Ω using secondary Alternative B or 16 Ω using Alternative C; no documented standard 4 Ω connection
9.2 kΩ plate load
4 Ω using Alternative B, 8 Ω using Alternative C or 16 Ω using Alternative D
5.5 kΩ plate load
4 Ω using Alternative C, 8 Ω using Alternative D or 16 Ω using Alternative E
33% ultralinear taps
Shown in the manufacturer drawing for push-pull operation; the documented standard SE connection does not use these taps

Comparison with the 70 mA version

The LL1688/70mA is publicly documented with a 240 µm air gap and 70 H of primary inductance. Where the actual operating point is near 70 mA, that version can be easier to evaluate because its magnetic design is fully stated.

A circuit operating around 120 mA requires the actual 120 mA version. Its primary inductance and air gap must not be inferred from the 70 mA data.

Selection and safety notes

The 30 Hz power figures are magnetic transformer limits. Actual output is also limited by the output valve, plate voltage, quiescent current, driver swing, permitted dissipation and power supply.

845 and related output stages use immediately lethal voltages. Install the open LL1688 inside a closed enclosure with adequate creepage and clearance distances.

The chassis must safely support approximately 4 kg together with transport loading. Establish core orientation relative to the mains transformer and the second output transformer before drilling.

Questions about selection and use

Which large SE output transformer suits a high-current 845 stage operating around 120 mA?

Lundahl LL1688/120mA is the BTB-listed version for this current range and provides 5.5, 9.2 or 20.5 kΩ plate loads. Confirm the air gap and primary inductance of the delivered 120 mA version before finalising the load line.

Which Lundahl SE output transformer provides 5.5, 9.2 and 20.5 kΩ for high-voltage triodes?

Lundahl LL1688/120mA provides these three loads within the LL1688 winding family. Select the load from the output valve, plate voltage, quiescent current and required signal swing.

Can the 120 mA version operate at a lower quiescent current?

Yes, the 120 mA version can generally operate at a lower current when the load line and signal swing are suitable. Where the operating point is much closer to 70 mA, the documented LL1688/70mA can provide more predictable bass reserve from its confirmed 70 H.

Is a 9.2 kΩ to 8 Ω connection available with the LL1688/120mA?

Yes, the documented secondary Alternative C provides approximately 9.2 kΩ with an 8 Ω loudspeaker. Follow the Lundahl underside-view connection diagram exactly.

Note: All brand names mentioned, such as Marshall, Fender, etc., are registered trademarks of their respective owners and are used here for descriptive and compatibility purposes only.

pdf
Title: Ar4C4C313638382F313230204F5054_LL1688-120.pdf Filesize: 38,04 KB
Responsible(EU)
Lundahl Transformers AB
SE-76150 Norrtälje
Email: order@lundahltransformers.com
pdf
Title: -EN-GPSR.pdf Filesize: 254,48 KB

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Fact sheet on EU Directive 2011/65/EU
Restriction of the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (PDF, not accessible, 2 MB)

Implementation of the RoHS Directive:
https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/waste-and-recycling/rohs-directive/implementation-rohs-directive_en

Source: IHK Mittelfranken

This product is: RoHS konform

Tariff Number: 85043129

Country of Origin: SE