![]() ![]() |
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
If the high cost of NOS 6BQ5/EL84 is limiting your purchases, the 6GK6 is the same tube with a different pinout at the socket. Plenty of RCA, GE, Sylvania and other manufactures are available for inexpensive. AES lists the 6GK6 at $8.60 vs 6BQ5 at $20.20.The 6GK6 were used as driver tubes in ham radio transmitting equipment back in the 1960s. And, some applications were subject to over-voltage thus the tubes are of quality construction.
Follow Ups:
In an electronics shop I found this: Toshiba 6AQ5, 6RA9, 6FM7, 17EW8, Zaeruz CV4083, and United electron Tube CV 4040. I only know the 6AQ5 is 6V6 eqv, 6RA9 may be a triod, but not so sure about the rest. Can I get advise if they are good tubes to collect??Tks
if one is willing to change sockets...or heater voltage especially:)....a lot of tubes become options. And not just in the case of EL84's. Some of the highest dollar tubes are dirt cheap in different heater voltages. I don't encourage newbies to change tubes but the more savy can look at anode to cathode voltage and idle dissipation and often sub in a much cheaper valve if they are willing to change sockets and/or heater voltages. That's the advantage of DIY amps.
![]()
Some of the Sovteks have an extremely refined sound, more than suitable for high end audio apps. They get a bad rap though, so you can sometimes pick them up for $5-6 each, even in matched pairs and quads. That's the real bargain, far as I'm concerned!
![]()
I will try those tubes. Any other info like newest stock, EH after number or 2 years ago the stock is better, etc. I will do a shoot out vs my stock.
![]()
This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors: