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Forums :: Ask Amp Tech Expert Skip Simmons

Good harp sounding 6V6 tube?

3 replies [Last post]
Wed, 09/21/2022 - 12:33
charlesxavier23
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Joined: 09/10/2022

Hi there :)

I wanted to ask, as someone who've seen everything in the amp world.. What are some good sounding 6v6 tubes to use in a champ, that can help tighten the low end? I am talking NOS....

 

If it doesn't matter then that's also an acceptable answer :) 

 

Thanks ! 

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Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:22
#1
Expert Skip Simmons
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Joined: 01/18/2010
First thing to tighten the

First thing to tighten the low end is the speaker. As far as NOS 6V6s, I like GE. The ones with a "button base" (like those Sovtek 5881s, which are cheaper, but still great). Also, I won't tell if you try a 6L6 in a Champ..........

530-771-7345
www.skipsimmonsamps.com

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Fri, 09/23/2022 - 08:57
#2
charlesxavier23
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Joined: 09/10/2022
Thanks a lot! Man the prices

Thanks a lot! Man the prices are up there ... Should have stocked up a couple years ago when it was still managable. 

 

Say, in a 5E5A circuit (Fedner Pro)  - Would you try a pair of 5881 like that Sovtek or stick with what I have now, which is Tung Sol STR 6L6 (New)

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Fri, 09/30/2022 - 10:14
#3
Expert Skip Simmons
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Joined: 01/18/2010
Well, this is kind of a tough

Well, this is kind of a tough question. The ultimate answer is that whatever power tubes you like are fine as long as the amp is biased properly. My experience is that changing power tubes won't change the sound all that much unless you have the amp turned way up. WAY up! I would experiment with preamp tubes instead. They make a BIG difference and you don't need to worry about biasing, just plug 'em in.

530-771-7345
www.skipsimmonsamps.com

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