Mesa Tubes

[plumptone]

Got some mesa 12ax7s. They have this rubber cover over them with the mesa label and tube designation. What is this, and should it be left on?

Thanks.

 

[MusicManJP6]

I don't think the cover should be left on. It is prob just for protection until they are installed. That rubber would most likely melt if left on...

 

[stokes]

That is a tube damper and should be left on.It is to keep the microphonics "dampened",it wont melt.They are likely the Mesa SPAX7's.

 

[Rocky]

exactly, leave the sleeve on.

 

[plumptone]

Thanks guys. I thought that's what they were, but was concerned about them melting. The two I have don't have the sp designation, that's why I was wondering. I thought I had read something about the sp's having the dampers, but had never seen any. Again - thanks.

 

[LegGodt]

They are the more expensive Meas 12AX7's. You can use them in different positions (V1 - V5) to alter the tone. Not as much as using different manufacturers, but there can be a slight difference. I think I use them in V1 and V2.