NOS Preamp tube recommendations for a 2 Ch Triple Recto

[Freefall]

I recently acquired a used 2 ch Triple Recto with stock tubes of unknown age, and the amp doesn't sound quite as good as a friend's amp of the same type (I do need to check out what tubes he has, I haven't yet). I want to do some NOS pre-amp tube rolling. What I want to achieve is pretty simple, I want a less fuzzy/fizzy dirty tone without losing the classic Mesa grind. I would like good note clarity. I don't need more gain (the triple has a ton), but I don't care that much about pristine cleans, I'm more interested in a clear/unfizzy crunchy/grindy rhythm and a smooth lead tone. I play in a cover band that does mainly mainstream hard rock (e.g. Foo Fighters, Three Days Grace, Buckcherry).

My thought was to get a decent assortment of NOS tubes and try for a good fit in V1 since I assume that has the most impact, and then see how the remaining tubes work in the other slots. Problem is, too many NOS options, and I have no idea where to start. Given my objectives, could you guys recommend some tubes that would be a good starting point? Please include where the tube can be purchased. I'd like to keep the cost below say, $40 each. Picking the "right" tube(s) is personal preference, but I'd like to get a nice assortment (maybe 5 or so) that covers a good tonal range so I have a good shot at finding what I'm after. Many thanks in advance!

 

[tramp]

Read this through should give you some pointers!!!

http://forum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?t=749

 

[Freefall]

Read this through should give you some pointers!!!

http://forum.grailtone.com/viewtopic.php?t=749

I read that thread... there's a lot of great insight there. It's mostly about the Triaxis, and also so many choices were mentioned that I find it a little hard to summarize. It'd be great if someone like Timbre Wolf could just suggest a good set to get started with.

 

[Timbre Wolf]

I want a less fuzzy/fizzy dirty tone without losing the classic Mesa grind. I would like good note clarity. I don't need more gain (the triple has a ton), but I don't care that much about pristine cleans, I'm more interested in a clear/unfizzy crunchy/grindy rhythm and a smooth lead tone.

Lets start with the RFT ECC83: it will smooth out your highs, reducing the fizz. It is the least "clean" 12AX7 types, but since you don't require pristine cleans, it should work fine for you.

A "better RFT" would be the 1957 Sylvania short gray-plate/square-getter 12AX7. This tube is more rare than the RFT, but similarly rounds off harsh highs, breaks up early, and - here's the better part - retains clarity much better than the RFT.

Now, since you've got plenty of gain available, you might want a 12AX7 that gives you better clarity, rounds off the high fizzies, and doesn't break up early like the two above. I'd recommend a long-plate GE 12AX7 for that purpose - they're still quite affordable. Keep in mind that long-plate tubes may be more prone to microphonics, so consider buying from a seller who tests for that.

Now, since you're interested in rolling a few tubes, just to gain experience, it wouldn't hurt to also try out the plain jane ol' GE gray-plate 5751. It won't have the greatest clarity (there are better, but more expensive 5751 for that), but it can be a surprisingly great tube, for just the right position. And it will reduce your fizzies.

The last recommendation for your new collection is the early-'80s (last production runs) Mullard 12AT7WA (a.k.a. CV4024, ECC81, M8162). This tube has superb clarity, thick liquid character, and is the fattest-sounding 12AT7 type I know. It is worthwhile to have on hand.

Hope this helps!

- Thom

 

[Freefall]

Fantastic info, Timbre Wolf. That's exactly what I was after... many thanks. I'm going to put your advice to work immediately... let the tube quest begin!

Once I have them, I'll definately report on the results of my experiments. Thanks again!

 

[Timbre Wolf]

Fantastic info, Timbre Wolf. That's exactly what I was after... many thanks. I'm going to put your advice to work immediately... let the tube quest begin!

Once I have them, I'll definately report on the results of my experiments. Thanks again!

My pleasure Please do report back - I'd like to hear how this goes.

Best,

- T

 

[tramp]

Timbre Wolf, what a lit up tube dude!
Just to say a huge thanks in the PD for all your efforts putting up with a loon Englishman looking for 'Tone'
The ‘set’ is arriving next week and I will post details of findings (as best I can) I should say that the one thing this isn’t is a poor mans hobby as I’ve managed to top out over $300 so far! And as I’m now slightly obsessed it’s sure to get worse……Mullard long plate/halo getter ECC83 anybody!! Anyway here’s the set:

1. Raytheon long black plate, halo-getter12AX7
2. Mullard CV4024/12AT7WA (654 type, ’70’s-‘80’s production)
3. RCA 5751 black plate/3-mica
4. 12AX7 early 1950s GE made longplate greyplate
5. RCA black plate 12BZ7
+ a few copper stoppers

Again just to say we are very lucky to have Thom on our side guys!!
And I’ll make no apologies for being a little gushing as the bloke is tireless in helping us ‘noobs’ out

 

[crane]

Again just to say we are very lucky to have Thom on our side guys!!

Totally agreed !
Thanx for your help Thom.

 

[Timbre Wolf]

Thanks for the kind words, guys. And apologies to your wives/girlfriends for making you spend so much $$ that's not for them :wink:

Tube costs have risen so dramatically in the last several years, that you're right, Tramp, this isn't a poor man's sport. Used to be, just a few years ago.

Anyway, gents - enjoy!!

- T

 

[crane]

I'll transmit your apologies ;-)
I prefer spend my money on tubes than in another nth pair of shoes... but shhhhhhh ! ;-)