Tubes Asylum

"Updated Tung-Sol KT120 and KT150 Tubes" ?

67.164.80.149

M-dB

A

On page 169 of the current Music Direct 16 catalog they're advertising Tung-Sol KT120 and KT150 tubes as "Updated designs from Russia's premier tube inventor are direct replacements for KT88s and 6550s."

It's my understanding that some 6550 and KT88 based amplifiers may need modifications and/or upgrades to take advantage of the KT150. Have these tubes been redesigned to accommodate this statement or could the use of these tubes still be an amplifier design mismatch?

I have a pair of Carver VTA 180s. Aside from bringing up the bias setting what amplifier specifications should I consider if I were to replace their KT88s with KT150s?

Follow Ups:

Amplifier manufacturer responds to replacing KT88s with KT120s - M-dB 17:09:09 02/06/19 (0)
This is old news that I meant to post way back when.

"Great upgrade! You can just plug them into the sockets, adjust the bias for anywhere between 80 ma and 120 ma and you are done. Actually, you can plug them in without doing anything and just listen for awhile.

Feel free to call me for any reason @ 425 508 4631

Bob Carver"
Your best source of information for that amp will be Bob Carver - starchild 21:31:22 11/30/15 (1)
He can let you know if there are other factors you need to consider.
- Yeah, he does upgrades - M-dB 00:36:12 12/04/15 (0)
  Its probably just me but the add reads like they've upgraded or changed the tubes to be direct replacements.
RE: "Updated Tung-Sol KT120 and KT150 Tubes" ? - Blackdog 05:01:05 11/29/15 (2)
That is an incorrect statement by Music Direct.
The 120 and 150 are pin compatible and may work in some circumstances. But they are definitely not direct replacements.
The big thing is filament current. KT88's require about 1.5 amps each. KT120 and 150 can draw up to 2.0 amps.
They also have different drive requirements than the KT88 so even if you do have enough current available, they may not function as well.

Dan Santoni
- RE: "Updated Tung-Sol KT120 and KT150 Tubes" ? - 6bq5 17:22:14 02/06/19 (0)
  Thank you for posting this.
  They are not 'Direct' replacements.....
  Happy Listening
- Dan, thanks for this information. nT - M-dB 18:18:34 11/29/15 (0)
  !
RE: "Updated Tung-Sol KT120 and KT150 Tubes" ? - mhardyman 03:44:30 11/29/15 (0)
Not updates. New design. Higher heater draw. These are not drop-in replacements for the KT88s and the amp really needs to be designed around them.

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