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Forums :: Ask Amp Tech Expert Skip Simmons

12Ax7 5721 12At7 12Ay7 General effect of changing these tubes

2 replies [Last post]
Sat, 05/29/2010 - 17:17
528hemi
528hemi's picture
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Joined: 12/19/2009

Hi Skip,

In general can you describe what would be expected tone wise when for example changing the pre-amp tube
in my 8 watt amp from a 12At7 to a 12AX7 or a 12Ay7? WIll going fro mthe 12At7 to a 12X7 make the amp break up sooner?
Does going from a 12At7 to a 12Ay7 make the amp cleaner?

How does this all work?

David,
feel free to respond :) I know Skip is having issues posting.

Thanks 528hemi

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Wed, 06/02/2010 - 08:51
#1
Expert Skip Simmons
Expert Skip Simmons's picture
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Joined: 01/18/2010
preamp tube swaps

528hemi- OK, hoss! In less time than it would take me to type a big answer, you could TRY the tubes yourself and KNOW the answer. Lower-gain tubes will change the tone and allow you to turn the amp up louder, but they don't actually make the amp break up sooner.

Skip Simmons

Skip Simmons Amp Repair

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Wed, 06/02/2010 - 12:37
#2
David Barrett
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ExpertHead InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 12/20/2009
Comment

I agree... these tubes are common enough to purchase and give them a try yourself. Each amp, mic and player will respond differently to the changes you make.

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