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From the Bench to the Stage: How We Really Test Valves

We don’t just tickle output valves with a few polite volts and hope for the best. No, we run them at the sort of voltages you’ll actually find inside a real amp – the levels where the magic (and sometimes the smoke) happens. Every set comes with its own test certificate, spelling out exactly what conditions the valves endured. Think of it as their gig contract – proof they’ve already played the loud bit before they arrive […]

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Amp repairs in the Scarborough UK Area

This is info for folks in the Scarborough UK area.  We are now focusing on our website business and so we have run out of time to fix amps ! We do carry extensive stocks of quality valves, electrolytic capacitors and valve bases  and always happy to give advice. There are some good amp repair folks who are not too far away. We recommend Paul at Cuenet Services in Sunderland.   If you are an

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Quiet the Noise: Killer V1 Tube Upgrades for Your Amp

If your amp’s been humming a little lullaby of noise, or you’re just after that ultra-clean tone, it might be time to upgrade your V1 preamp tube. Whether you’re rocking a Strat through a vintage combo or spinning vinyl on a high-end stereo rig, swapping out your V1 valve can seriously dial down the noise floor and tighten up your sound. Here are three top-tier 12AX7/ECC83-compatible tubes that are making noise by… well, not making

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Valve Market Update – July 2025

Valve Market Update – July 2025 A Straight-Talking Look at the UK & Global Tube Supply Situation UK Market: Harsh Headwinds for Music Since April 2025, the UK’s economic climate has been tough on the live music scene. The sharp rise in National Insurance and business rates (the dreaded property taxes) has hit hospitality and small venues hard. Many pubs and clubs that used to support local and semi-pro bands have had to scale back

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Fender Blues Jr Bias Kit image

Fender Blues Jr Bias Kit

Fender Blues Jr Bias Kit Fender Blues Junior amps have one major design weakness. They use non adjustable grid bias in the power stage, and it’s usually set far too high. We have  seen as high as 130% idle bias on units straight out of the factory. It’s no wonder so many of them can ruin the pcb.   The issue is made worse because Fender set the mains voltage on these ampds to 230

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What is Premium Valve Testing?

Are your output valves matched for your amp? Just because a set of valves says “matched” doesn’t mean it’s matched for your amp. Most valve suppliers put a sticker on the valve showing the anode current and the Gm. But what were the test conditions? So you might think they must be matched. Not necessarily the case. In the UK, a number of suppliers use and maintain venerable testers such as the AVO Mk4 that

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