Steve / Sckott or anyone else, any EL84 Tube Recommendations?

[TommyTunes]

I just picked up a Marshall DSL amp that uses four EL84's do you have any recommendations on any current production tubes? Also have you heard anything on the new Groove Tube 6L6's that are being made in the US?
Thanks
Tom

[Steve Hoffman]

Tom, I used the 1980's GE EL-84's in my Matchless and they gave me a perfect Vox tone.

However, for your Marshall needs you might want something a little less, um, vintage sounding. In this case, something current might work. Since I am a total tube snob I don't even know the current brands. Sorry.

Anyone else?


I believe the Groove Tubes are GE's. My set from 1993 was.

[audio]

I would recommend the least expensive new tubes you can find. CE Distribution has excellent prices and nice merchandise (www.cedist.com). You could also try the Radioshack catalog. A while back they had some 7189s for $8 a piece. These tubes will work in place of an EL84 and you'll even get a couple more watts of power out of them. I put a couple in my '66 Vox Pacemaker and it screams!

[TommyTunes]

Thanks will check out the RS tubes.

[Jeffrey]

Originally posted by prix
I would recommend the least expensive new tubes you can find.

Hi,

I wouldn't! :shake: I recently purchased a 1963 McIntosh C-22 preamp and put in some new Sovtek 12AX7's for testing purposes since i knew these tubes were in perfect condition. They were only $5 ea. Problem is, the mid-range went to hell as compared to the pricey Telefunkens. Maybe there is a reason why they're pricey! ;)

-Jeffrey

[Ronflugelguy]

My brother, the guitar player, says it depends on the type of sound you want what tubes you use in a guitar amp. If you want a raunchy sound , then it may be ok to use cheaper tubes, if you want a smoother sound, then use the premium old stuff.

[Sckott]

Cheap tubes are fine as long as you realize you GET what you PAY for. Some Russian and Chinese tubes are absolutely fine in this application, but don't get the cheapest ones unless you are willing to experiment and know that these tubes may jump ship on you in less than a year.

This is a guitar situation, so I'd say being critical isn't always necessary.

If you have a problem finding the right EL84, I would go for Eletcro-Harmonix tubes. They're built very strong for Russians, and sound great. If you want something that rocks but isn't built as well, try the Ei EL84.

[Jeffrey]

Originally posted by Sckott
This is a guitar situation, so I'd say being critical isn't always necessary.


Hi Sckott,

Good point! :agree: It depends how good Tom can play! :D

-Jeffrey

[Sckott]

Yeah. I hear Tom can play. That's about all I know. Don't know about how-well. :D

Plus there's a righteous attitude about playing an amp and going through a set of tubes. :)

[TommyTunes]

This sums up my ability perfectly. :hurl: but it never stop me of making a fool of myself.

[Ronflugelguy]

Originally posted by Jeffrey


Hi,

I wouldn't! :shake: I recently purchased a 1963 McIntosh C-22 preamp and put in some new Sovtek 12AX7's for testing purposes since i knew these tubes were in perfect condition. They were only $5 ea. Problem is, the mid-range went to hell as compared to the pricey Telefunkens. Maybe there is a reason why they're pricey! ;)

-Jeffrey Yeah, read the follow-up review on the EAR preamp in the new absolute Sound. Sovtek tubes were the problem.That's why i was checking on Groove Tubes as i had heard that they were actually some GEs that had been relabeled.My guitar amp guy told me they might be good for audio/ vintage amps, but again admits that he is no expert.Jeffery , I think you're right. Best, Ron.