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Two at the "opposite" ends of the spectrum

66.74.72.231

Posted by Bambi B on August 17, 2004 at 20:37:04

In Reply to: Which tubes (12AT7) for exploration in a Manley Stingray? posted by haziz on August 17, 2004 at 19:01:32:

Hany,

I've tried quite a number of 12AT7s- in 5 pieces of tube equipment I use a total of 7 of the type, so I need a variety to suit the gear.

I don't know the Manley amplifier, but my thought for your experiments would be to try two models that, to me, are very noticably different- and also plentiful and not too expensive. The first is the GE Five Star 6201 which is a fast, punchy, almost percussive 12AT7 that also sell for $10-15 as tested NOS. Very good bass on these. The second would be the Sylvania 12AT7WA, the late 50's triple mica version. These are lush, deep, and round- very different from the GE- wonderful vocal tube and smooth, liquid sound. I bought some recently also for about $12 each NOS.

With these two as a kind of two ends of a spectrum, you could get a range. Most tubes will fall in between these and the differences may be very subtle, so you can see if you want a kind of vintage, lush sound or a more modern "quick" sound.

My all-round favourite 12AT7s are Siemens and the regular ECC81 and the premium E81CC triple mica are fantastic- very refined and great resolution and these work in modern and vintage well. I do use the Sylvanias in my microphone preamp as a kind of effect tube.

Happy hunting!

Cheers,

Bambi B

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