Colour codes on Mesa tubes

[tomprs]

Hi!

My dual recto came stock with str-430 6L6 Mesa power tubes (grey color code). Two years ago I changed to Sovtek 5881, which I like for their warmth and fullness but they really lack the "in your face" recto sound. I want now to re-tube the amp with the newest Mesa str-440 powertubes, to come back to the original sound of my amp.

> should I strictly buy grey labeled tubes?

> what do you think of the str-440? is there any cheaper good alternative to the Mesa tubes?

Thanks!

Tom.

 

[thunda1216]

Sovtek 6L6WXT+ good choice (was same as Mesa STR 430)
Ruby tubes 6L6GCMSTR excellent choice

ask your dealer for matched tubes rated "middle" for use in your amp

 

[MrMarkIII]

The color codes on Mesa power tubes are there for the sole purpose of matching pairs.

IOW, if you blow one grey tube, all you need is one grey tube to replace it.
Yellow pairs, green pairs, blue pairs will all work the same.

There are some early, out of production Mark series models that Mesa recommends specific colors.

Anything else you may hear is the usual inter-web misinformation, not to mention brainless fever-dream conspiracy theory.

Any reputable tube seller can recommend various brands that they can match to you specific amp.