Resistor Decade box, advice

[John]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/160697936243?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649#ht_500wt_1054

I've been thinking about building a sub box for a while, but pretty sure I can't do it cheaper than this. Question is, is this a good "type" or style box? Don't wanna spend money on something that's not suitable.

I know this is pretty basic stuff, but I've never even put my hands on one so I'm askin'.

Thanks!

[HotBluePlates]

You can probably find them cheaper on ebay (for older, or more limited models).

You'll want to google that brand and model to find out the wattage/voltage rating for the device. It may be more limited than you'd expect.

The point is that you could burn out a resistor (or several) by applying amp voltages without thinking/planning ahead. Low resistance values attached to high voltage (B+) supplies yields big current and burned resistors. The ratings may be specified in a way that's not immediately obvious. Find them, and we'll explain.

[jjasilli]

That box looks fine and the price is in the ballpark, but for guitar amp work neither 1% precision nor 1 Ohm steps are necessary.  Also the housing seems to be plastic.  It will be noisy if you run signal through it.  Another choice:  http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?Partnumber=320-076&FTR=RESISTOR%20SUBSTITUTION

I bought some old Eico & RCA cap/resistor sub boxes on eBay.  I really like them; though some values have drifted.  And they're Bakelite with aluminum front panels. So no shielding either unless I add shielding paint or tape internally. They seem to go for anywhere from $10 - $45 so its a crap shoot, but yo can win at a low price eventually.

To run signal outside the amp chassis under test, I use shielded 2-wire mic cable.

[John]

Thank you both! For now I'll just keep looking. That one on Parts Express is more what I had in mind.

[stratele52]

Those two resistors boxes are sold are my local electronic store. IMO they don't have enough resistor and usefull vallue.
I have few vintage resistor substitution boxes at my home shop and I never use them  They have never the value I need.
Alligator jumpers and a good stock of separate resitors are the best.

[HotBluePlates]

I have few vintage resistor substitution boxes at my home shop and I never use them  They have never the value I need.

What values are they?

[stratele52]

I have few vintage resistor substitution boxes at my home shop and I never use them  They have never the value I need.

What values are they?

Why ? Some value on those boxes are usefull but easier and faster for me to take the right resistor from my stock , I have them all .