What tubes should I get for my tube amp?

guojuo

New member
I'm thinking my tubes need changing. The clean channel is starting to sound distorted even at low volumes.

I'm using a ENGL Screamer 50W combo, and according to the user manual, the ones inside are four ECC/12AX7 and two 5881 (6L6GC).

So I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on where I could get replacements and what I should get. I'm intending to change the tubes myself by the way.

Cheers!
 
Try Martin Electronics in Burlington Square (next to Sim Lim Tower). I think that they are still there. Only replace the preamp tubes for the moment as your problem may be more serious - amps lose their 'punch' when the tubes are old. The distortion is more of a concern

Try the JJ 12AX7/ECC83s tubes as they have a spiral heater and should be less affected by vibration/microphonics.

If this doesn't sort out the problem, you may have a more serious one and it's time to see a tech.

cheers,

Mark in Oz
 
On this note, does louder hum/noise on your tube amp = tubes are old? I'm using a fender blues junior.
 
On this note, does louder hum/noise on your tube amp = tubes are old? I'm using a fender blues junior.

That's a common symptom. Other symptoms include fluctuations in vol or sound fades away and coming back on. In short, bad tone and frustrations.

If you have been playing the amp for a while, you'll feel it in your gut when your tubes need changing... Or simply when your regular setup start to sound tinny and crappy.. make sure that the problem is caused by the tubes and not cables etc!

Most would recommend changing your tubes every 2 -3 years.

Mine usually lasts 3 1/2 years with daily use 3 -6 hours.

Best,
R.
 
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Hmm... I've heard good thing about JJ tubes. Any other stores around besides the Burlington Square one? What are my other options with the tubes?
 
Sorry, would love to help further, but am now in Oz and haven't been in Singapore for two years so I'm not sure what's around.

You could also try the Sovtek 12AX7LPS from Martin, or try Davis as I'm sure they have some Marshall branded (they are Yugoslav make I think).

cheers,

Mark.
 
That's a common symptom. Other symptoms include fluctuations in vol or sound fades away and coming back on. In short, bad tone and frustrations.

If you have been playing the amp for a while, you'll feel it in your gut when your tubes need changing... Or simply when your regular setup start to sound tinny and crappy.. make sure that the problem is caused by the tubes and not cables etc!

Most would recommend changing your tubes every 2 -3 years.

Mine usually lasts 3 1/2 years with daily use 3 -6 hours.

Best,
R.

i change mine every year. it depends on how often you play your amp at gig levels.
eg. my deluxe reverb i run it at volume 6 most times, so the tubes wear out quicker.
 
i change mine every year. it depends on how often you play your amp at gig levels.
eg. my deluxe reverb i run it at volume 6 most times, so the tubes wear out quicker.



If you are gonna throw those old tubes away,
please pm me for free disposal service.
I find my Univalve loves old worn out tubes.
 
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