Stephe, the lesson I learned, Charge full price up front. If folks dont value your time and talent you probably don't want them as a customer. Yea, it sucks when you realize that people suck, and its worse when you realize just how many suck... Your honesty is a target. Dont let this ruin your love of what you do for yourself or deserving customers..

Getting a deposit is the only way to go.

From the beginning of your channel your heart has always been in the right place. It is unfortunate that people can and are that way! Having to navigate this has got to be frustrating indeed. Keep your head up and keep building what you love. And as an owner of one of the first batch of Amps, I can only say those folks are missing out on an incredible sounding amp. I know many true fans of analog bliss will take the leap and be so satisfied. There is so much versatility in tube rolling this amp to satisfy just about anyone.

I collect knives. Typically if I want a bespoke knife I would expect to pay 100% up front. If I wanted a bespoke amplifier from you I would expect to pay the full price up front. Small business people with big hearts can quickly become ex small business people. I know this from experience.

"hey y'all" should be a on SD t-shirt

i would charge full part costs as deposit. That should not be a problem for someone who really wants the amp

Non-refundable deposits.

@Skunkie This is very upsetting news. I have been following the build on this amplifier from inception through production and I do have experience with tube amplifiers in the past, mostly because I serviced guitar amplifiers for a living and I have to say that you are perhaps the best person I have come across when it comes to DIY tube amplifier constructing. Mainly because of your tenacity and attention to details. While you might not consider yourself a pro, I can say that I have come across many pros that don't go to the extents that you go to. I did have a bit of an unsure look on my face when you wanted to include so many options on your amp, but you weren't phased by it and you wanted to do a good service to your customers. So, Kudos to you for doing that. But, I did fear that when you didn't take deposits, that there will be those that will take advantage of it. They are all gung-ho when there is no financial risk on their part, but when it came time to pony up the cash, they ghost you. I have been there many times myself. As I said, I have worked on guitar amplifiers and for expensive repairs, I did ask for a non-refundable deposit. Even then, I was sometimes ghosted. Then I had the arduous task of sending out registered letters warning those people that if they didn't pay off their repair in a timely fashion, that I would be selling their unit off to cover the costs. It is people like this that does take the wind out of ones sails and it brings the fun level down. I was very upset that it happened to you and not once, but multiple times. I would say that if you now have amp stock, probably the best thing to do is put them up on your page and just offer them as a paid in full sale. Offering less custom jobs is also a good idea. Make a few amps with the switch and a second input, make some with only a single input. I would make them all with the volume control. As for the jacks, put them all on the back as that is what most people would want. If you run low on stock and have to take orders, the I would charge a deposit that covers the costs of the most expensive parts of the amplifier, such as the transformers, expensive caps, and the chassis. This way, if you ARE ghosted, then at least most of your parts are covered. I would guess that for a $2000, you should be taking AT LEAST a $750 deposit. That would seem more than reasonable. Definitely make it clear that the deposit is non-refundable as that is what it is there for. A signed contract is a good step in the right direction. Sadly, this is the world we are in and you really don't know who you can trust. You just have to do what you need to, so that you cover your own butt. You make it harder for those that don't end up following through to ghost you. Those that are committed and true will not have a problem in giving you a deposit. It is a shame that you have to restructure your business as a result of the foolish, but to go through all those custom mods and then have someone pull out on you, certainly is very inconvenient and it takes the fun out of the business. As for me, my reasons for not working on amplifiers anymore was because the industry changed. More clubs and the mobile party industry switched from having bands to having a DJ instead. So no bands, meant no guitar amps coming in for repairs. Yes, I offered to mod amplifiers and that was when, I myself, had run into similar problems as you have. In the end, it just wasn't sustainable anymore and I had to do something different with my life. I have been wanting to do more DIY stuff with tubes and while I still have intentions on building your EL34 / 12AX7 amplifier, I was very intrigued with the Musical Paradise amplifier project you are working on. As it is, my biggest problems is with chassis work. I don't have the tools for it. I am good with electronics, but not so good with fabrication. I find the Musical Paradise amplifier project intriguing because it does make me wonder if I could get at least 80% there to your EL34/12AX7 amp. Especially given the low cost of that amp. Sure, it isn't the same quality, but I am getting to the point where I want a tube amp and it is taking a while to get the parts together for the EL34/12AX7 build. Anyway, getting back on track, again, I am sorry that this has happened to you, but I did fear it and others had mentioned it too. But, it does look like you have it under control and ARE taking measures to protect yourself. It is just that it didn't really had to come to this and one of your unique services is going to be affected by it. But, alas, it is the way it is, and you have to do what you have to do to cover your end. Hopefully, this was a minor hiccup and it doesn't put too much of a damper on your love for the hobby and building amplifiers. Cheers!

Too bad operating a small business has come down to this. Kind of makes us loose the rest of our little faith in humanity. Keep up the good work, and lets hope the majority of your customers from now on will be "solid core" and not some twisted and frayed guys!

Yes, there are people out there who will jerk you around all the way. When it's over, they will reinforce their idea that they are smart, and you are a sucker. They will even brag about it to their equally soulless associates. These people are not worth the calories their burning bodies would produce. You just need to protect yourself a little bit and you won't have to worry about them. No worries = continuing to enjoy what you're doing = me enjoying watching your channel and building gear.

Love the show

Wow, sorry to hear that, Stephe. It’s one thing having a legitimate issue, but to just go dark. That’s low. At least you ended up with a nice amp for yourself. At the shop I worked at, we always took a non refundable deposit on anything custom, so I understand what you’re dealing with. Again, sorry to hear that. Some people…. Glad you’ve got a plan in place for future orders.

Man it sucks what you have been going thru. I have no doubt that you are gonna be super successful moving forward. Your videos have been mind blowing and I can’t wait to hear about all of the good and fun weeks you have coming at you right around the corner.

That’s what Fluxxion does. He builds whatever he wants to build, takes plenty of pictures and sells them with “all sales are final”; and customers must pay for shipping to and from during warranty claims. (last part also very important to avoid frivolous warranty claims)

Yes!, and stick to what you just said - 100% non-refundable, and the customer pays for their shipping charges - and signed contract/purchase agreement - love you Skunkie

Try being a General Contractor..... the customer hates you before they even hear your name! lol Trying to start a 1 man speaker manufacturing myself, so I really appreciate the business vids! ALL custom work MUST be paid in FULL before any work starts, period, no exceptions, no refunds, no returns. 90 days build time from receipt of payment If they cant pay in full up front and dont want to wait, then they called the wrong place. People just have no idea what goes on behind the scenes and the logistics it takes to build something from scratch.

Love your channel. I'm a SS guy but I love to watch and learn. Hopefully one of the 'big' reviewers will want to borrow one for a review and I'm sure the business will take off! Cheers!

I'm really sorry to hear about this, Stephe. Heartbreaking. Honestly. Requiring a deposit is certainly the way to go.

I can imagine how frustrating this would be. I would go even one further and sell only "open box items" or "B stock", implying there may be some minute imperfections. I think you could still make some specials, but make them to your own taste and people can buy them when they are finished, as you said. You could even go so far as having people make suggestions for color combinations. That you then choose to make or reject based on your own perception as to how well it will sell. But everybody can buy it when it is finished, first come first serve. Those are just some suggestions in case you want to have some fun with different visual designs.

Right decision Stephe! People are jerks... I wish you good luck and lot of fun and make nice business out of that! Looks like you went thru painful time. Hope this was only once!

Unbelievable. I guess taking a 25 or 50 percent deposit initially might mitigate the ghosting-after-production problem. OOOps. I posted before I heard the entire story. :) Sorry that you're having to deal with such unsavory characters is making you rethink the whole adventure. Definitely a killjoy!

No deposits! Charge up front! 100% Like every other business.

Was looking forward to the Monday Monologue What you are doing makes sense to me It would be nice if you get to the point where building the components is not frustrating but enjoyable

You're on the right track now. Build them how ever you please. Post a pic with specs and a price.

Great video! It is impressive that you’ve shared so much of a passionate hobby turned business. More power to you! Running a small business is a tireless undertaking. You give it all you’ve got and I appreciate that you share your knowledge and experiences with anyone that tunes in. Don’t let the negativity generators bring you down - anyone that puts in the effort you have wouldn’t think once about projecting empty criticism towards anyone. Stay positive and keep up the good work!

yes Steph , this is the way the world works ..........i learned it the hard way , buying epensive components for dedicated projects . One customer declined because his wife bought a new car , another had issues with paying his taxes ......someone bought a big screen TV and had no money left over ect... After these lessons I never started building or repair/modifying before partly or full payement...........;in special cases like disease, an accident or other serious matter one can act like a human , iall other it is bussiness and protection that are prime agreements for both parties. Have a nice day ........and stay and be confident , you're doing a very nice job that makes people happy to listen with more pleasure to their music .

Stephe, sorry to hear of this BS. Keep up the good work and continue to help the community. We apprrciate you. Ive been with you from the beginning. I know its frustrating. Keep up the good work. Thanks

This is the kind of video I enjoy watching, your builds!

I`m sorry to hear about your troubles with there kind of people. I like the Way you do it. Just keep being you ❤

You should consider charging a consultation fee, time is money, if they commit with the contract enforced, the consultation could be deducted giving incentive that you run a serious business. I know, because I have been in your shoes, when I ran my business and made hard choices, it was the right move.

Wow! That must be so hard! The percentage of people who ordered and ghosted is incredibly high, and that can be so crushing for any small business!

I would agree with the idea of full price up front. You have a very niche market and do not have to go through the hassles that relying on customer integrity and all the other down side

You could have a website with your products, click on product which has a base price then dropdown menues for OPT's Resistor upgrades etc. Whole price paid upfront inc postage and must click on agree with T&C's. Just a thought...

I guess the way to go is only offer a fixed product range, just build them and sell them. I've had experience with the type of people who just want to waste your time. Be strong and carry on!

Re ghosting, tire kickers, and dead beats Welcome to the Internet!

“Money talks, BS walks.” Yeah, get at least some money upfront. You deserve it.

Great stuff Stephe. Thank you for the discussion the other day on the phone! I like the direction you are going. You gotta cover your costs.

And you'd think people would reciprocate how accommodating you are and would not treat you like amazon (or actually worse). I am sorry to hear how people just don't care about all the love you put into your work. I always felt bad emailing you for advice on my own build, taking up your time. There is just one thing I don't quite understand: Why don't you work with contracts? I get it, we are the tube amp family (and whenever I bring up that I am lawyer, chill fills the room), but can't you have your attorney friend draw something up for you? There is the deposit issue but also the question of liability.

Yup, making (and selling) hardware is hard. Hence the name. I wonder how much of this customer interaction the guys from Decware (with their EPIC waiting list) have to deal with. Or Tesla with their 2 million pre-orders of the Cybertruck.

The first 10 rules of running a business are all the same: "Cash flow is king"! Offer a standard product, customization should be a task performed AFTER the standard product is built. Non-refundable deposits for standard product should, at least, cover the standard parts. Minimize accepting hundreds of modified, customized configurations---limit the options. Deposit for customized products should be a non-refundable 100% of the sale price. Make this crystal clear on your order form, including recovery of credit card/paypal fees. If you are not careful, folks will drive you nuts with odd configurations and will spend all of your "free" engineering effort playing "what if".

I'm in the UK so won't be able to buy from you. I did though buy an amp that is made to order from a small UK based supplier, I paid 100% upfront, I was quite happy with that as I understood that a small business can't afford to carry too much debt. The way you describe some of the folks you've been dealing with, sounds like they wanted you to fail. I think you have ended up in the right place though.

I'm feeling for you Stephe - no courtesy, no manners, just plain disgusting and undeserved treatment in return for the heart and soul you give to your viewers.

It's horrible that these scumbags are taking advantage of your honesty and trust. It's not surprising as people lack self respect and it's all too easy hiding behind the keyboard. Full payment up front is the way to go. Good luck moving forward.

Try to offer a custom product at a reasonable price and you get taken advangtage of. Like they say one bad apple spoils the bunch, which is too bad. If it's any solice I was truely entertained by your rant. Keep it simple and get back to what you enjoy!

Get a legally binding deposit that covers the parts cost at least. " Hell is other people"- Jean Paul Sartre :)

That's awful what people have done to you! Good onya! - Just buildem & get people to buyem! I'd love to see what other channels think of your amps, particularly those types that thought that rubbish 'williamston' amp deserved amp of the year! Or would I? Maybe not! Those fools probly don't even deserve to have the likes of your gems on their premises! They'd probly be so blown away they'd never recover!😅😂!

Lessons learned.... 🙂

have you thought about what happens if a cust gets an item and the cust claims there is a problem with it? the best with your new business and channel.

Oh my, shame on these people who ghosted you, no honour. I recommend at least a 50% ***NON-REFUNDABLE*** deposit upfront. Honourable folks will have zero issues with ponying up a 50% deposit, even if delivery might be a while. Man, heartbreaking that scamps like these are still out there pulling stunts like this.

Good news about Dolly. You are very reasonably priced, perhaps too low. Lower volume, higher margin. Good business model

Unfortunately these days if you give people leeway to take advantage of you then that is guaranteed to happen. It's happened in every industry. Personal transactions or professional. The kind of red tape we all have to put up these days just to protect ourselves is the new normal. Wish it wasn't the case but there are too many unethical people out there to make exceptions.

Wanting vs. paying for are quite different. If I had serious amp money, I'd pay extra to Tango (pun intended).

Just got a yarland/Atiand t845s tube amp I would love you to check it out .Thanks for a awesome show love it learn alot from you so ya you rock

👍

I hope things work out alright in the end, you have given a lot of time and knowledge to a lot of people!! I have a question if you have the time, on the Blueglow KT 88 amp. Would it be beneficial to use two ECC85’s, one for each channel instead of sharing one? Thanks Alex.

Get a 50% deposit.

are you going to sell that iso amp? how much you want to charge that?

Wow, people suck

Its great you started with the idea for producing well made tube products....but I think you made a mistake in over complicating things! As offering all the different custom options, permutations and variables is interesting ...but will lead to component sourcing,, production and lead time nightmares! My humble advice is to back track slightly ....and first just offer two versions for. each of your amp design - (1) the basic standard model - say an all black/silver or a black on black version - build to a budget and spec with set inputs and controls etc ... and then (2) do an all singing and dancing version - with higher spec components and perhaps a wood and metal chassis design etc! As no disrespect doing all the other variables just makes things confusing, difficult and problematic for you and your potential customers too! But I appreciate your thoughts to specifically tailor things for your customers.. but that is custom/boutique approach ...which should be costed as such! Oh yeah and make them pay first! ...at least 50%

dose anyone know anything about Yarland 34b amp? I own one, sound output is anemic. Any easy mod suggestions?