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Questions about tubes and gear that glows. FAQ

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RE: Microphonic vs Tube Pin Contact

Posted by Jonesy on July 3, 2020 at 08:50:43:
Yes. Only tap if you are truly suspicious of microphony and are comfortable doing it.

Tubes are very robust and should survive the simple test. But it can get out if hand where people continually check obsessively or upon purchase from dealers/sellers claiming a tube is microphonic and want their money back.

I recall two personal instances where tapping helped me identify an issue.

One instance where a whistling sound was due to poor contact and not microphony. "Thud" tap.

Then another where a voice on an album I was familiar with developed a glare. By gently tapping the tubes in each channel, I found the microphonic tube and replaced it. Problem fixed. Was a "ring" tap on that tube only.

Otherwise I do not tap tubes as regular maintenance.

Also note that microphonic tubes can be used in other locations not susceptible to the issue. Do not through them out. Just put aside and label them as such.

Cheers!

Jonesy