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Guitar Guys,

As many of you know, I'm an electronics tech by profession and restore antique radios from the '30s. I've got a cheap little solid state amp to mess around with at home. I also have
1) A love of electronics that double as space heaters
2) A desire for a project
3) A love of rockabilly, classic country and old rock and roll

With those things, it seems a good idea for me to think about building a tube amplifier as a project. I'm thinking about building a version of the venerable 5E3 Fender Deluxe combo. I'm a brank spanking new guitar player, and don't know what I don't know. What I do know, is that compared to a radio these amplifiers are dead simple. There is also a good selection of kits ranging from PCB kits to point-to-point wired kits on turret/eyelet boards.

What I'd like the brain trust's opinion on the capabilities of this particular type of amplifier circuit, and what your recommendations are for a good kit.

I don't have any real interest in a re-issue or one built by somebody else. I'm pretty sure the build won't be a challenge, but even as a kit I'm looking at about $700 all in with parts, cabinet and speaker. Lots of different kits available. I was wondering if anyone has some recommendations and why you prefer them over another.

Thanks in advance, I'm sure there will be much information coming my way.