Mark IV preamp tube help

[Herbie the Rad Dorklift]

So I want to replace my preamp tubes. On the Boogie site it says the IV has 5 12AX7s, so can I just buy 5 12AX7s and replace them? Or do I need different ones?

I'm buying some winged SED 6L6s from this site, so I want to get my preamp ones from there too.

 

[#2121313]

12AX7's is what you need. Euro-tubes suggested to me that requesting s "balanced" tube for the PI inverter position (check your manual, probably V5 spot), a balanced tubed would help keep a smooth tone. There are some benefits to having the tubes "matched" as well, if you have that option, you can look into it, usually a few extra bucks on top of the order.

I don't know much, my self in regards to tubes, I do know what sounds good in a Recto may sound like crap in a Mark IV, and vise versa X all the different amp and tube combination's so options are endless especially when you factor in each persons opinion of what sounds "better".

Some good info here:

http://forum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=43209

The guys in the Tube sections are cool and helpful, it's a good idea to mention your playing style, tone your after, if the amp is a head/combo and type of cab/speaker combo your using if you end up trying to look for recommendations.

But you definitely need 12AX7's. I hear good things about the SED =C= both EL34 & 6L6's so you seem to be headed down the right path.

 

[dodger916]

Some good info here:

http://forum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=43209

The guys in the Tube sections are cool and helpful, it's a good idea to mention your playing style, tone your after, if the amp is a head/combo and type of cab/speaker combo your using if you end up trying to look for recommendations.

+1. I don't play metal, and I've also had good results with winged Cs. However, make sure the vendor knows the specs for the Mark IV. Doug's Tubes (http://www.dougstubes.com/) can provide the proper tubes.

Regarding preamps, I've had excellent results with VINTAGE Tung-Sols in my Mark IV. It removed the boxiness and gave it a more "organic" tone and feel, more like a Mark II. They are available on eBay. I also installed a balanced Mullard 12AT7WA CV4024 in the PI that I got from Doug's. A bit spendy ($35), but another way to make the amp more organic. But as #2121313 says, it depends on the style of music and tone you're after.

 

[fretout]

Have you tried replacing tubes in your amp before? What tubes have you tried and what charateristics of the Mark IV do you think you want to improve when compared to your current setup?