Most folks are just not sure when should you change your valves? Valves do wear out. How do I know? We need explanation of how they wear out and what to look for. Then you will know when to replace them There is a lot of stuff written on forums on why tubes valves wear out. There is a lot of confusion. Here is an example of the confusion on one typical forum . I […]
6V6 and 6L6 output valves Valves are ancient technology. Over 100 years old. Many folks expect the reliability of modern electronics like an Iphone. However, the reliability and the lifespan of old technology is much less than modern electronics. We al love the sound of valves and this this the trade off. Two really common audio output valves are the 6L6 and the 6V6. Very commonly used in American amps. They came on to the
We now own the trademark ” Zaerix” name along with the logo. Zaerix is an old name in the UK market. We are working to bring the brand back to life while upholding the values of this famous name from the past.. Zaerix was the brand name of a company called Z and I Aero Services. They did not make valves themselves but they did source high quality valves from manufacturers around the world and
It is common design practice overrunning output valves. It is done with all types . There are some amps that use EL34’s and run them way over 500 volts. This is well above and beyond the maximum ratings of certain manufacturers. It is inviting trouble as the valves age, they have the possibility of flashing over and failing. We see similar effects with EL84’s. This is not a new phenomenon. Amp companies have been doing
Many amps have a valve rectifier valve. Typical types are EZ81, 5Y3, GZ34/5AR4 and 5U4. There are variations on the letters at the end of the part number but the basic part number product will do the job. The alternative is to use solid state diodes. So why have a less reliable valve/tube rectifier than modern diodes? rectifier is just the old name for a diode. How do you know when your rectifier valve needs
Find the valves you need quick and easy We have added new categories to make it easier finding valves/ tubes . If you go to the ” Categories “ menu at the top of the page you find instant links to common types. The idea being to find stuff faster. If you are looking for more unusual pre-amps such as the 12DW7 or ECC99 they are still there just look in the “preamp valves” section
De-Mystifying Sovtek 12AX7 WA WB WC Variants I thought it worth the time De-Mystifying Sovtek 12AX7 WA WB WC Variants. Why are there three versions of the Sovtek 12AX7 and why use one versus the other? One common characteristic of all three types is that they are very low in microphonics. The “W” in the part number is there to tell us its a ruggedised valve. Ruggedised valves are made to withstand more vibration than