Pre-amp tubes for a LSC 10/50/100

[FunkyMonkey]

Hi,

I'm looking at updating the pre-amp section of my LSC to get a bit more definition out of the amp on channel 2. I've not really experimented with tubes before, so the amp current carries the mesa stock mix of Chinese and Russian 1s and 2s.

I'm looking to get close to a 90's clapton tone (without buying a SLO100, which he didn't drive anywhere near full gain, so believe it should be possible).

Anyway to the point! I see mixed reviews here of Tung-Sol and Doug's tube kits, what would anyone recommend for a bit more definition and tightness? I know my ears will be the ultimate decider and i'll know "my tone" when I find, but any pointers in the right direction on pre-amp tubes would be a great help!

Duncs

PS: I am not worried about the basiness of the amp, i've taken an ears rather than eyes approach to dialing in tones, so have that one licked

 

[loudguitars]

I am using a NOS RCA 12ax7 for V1 and a NOS Mullard 12ax7 for V2 and I can get a really nice mid gain Clapton-ish tone. I like that tube combo for the LSC classic better than anything that I have tried.

I use a NOS 12AT7 for the reverb driver as well. The NOS sounds better than the new tubes IMHO.

Greg

 

[FunkyMonkey]

Thanks LG!

By NOS do you mean old valves that have not been used - i.e. manufactured when things were done properly, but just been sat in a box for 30 years!!!

D

 

[FunkyMonkey]

Thanks Shred I will give it a try. Just did a search for the Mullard's they're expensive and rare, but I guess if looked after will never need changing

I will give the Sylvania's a go too.

D

 

[loudguitars]

+1 on the Sylvanias as well. I like them too I use a JAN Phillips 12AX7 a lot as well. They rock. I have a Mullard that has been in three different amps for over two years and still sounds great. Search for relabeled Mullards on EBAY. You can find them cheaper. Search the post on tubes and there is plenty of information about Mullard relabel brands and costs. Good luck!

Greg

 

[FunkyMonkey]

Thanks for the warning shredd6!

Is there an online resource that shows some of the features that you have outlined above, that would help me identify the genuine article?

Duncs

 

[FunkyMonkey]

Hi shredd6,

Thanks for taking the time to do that. Let the search begin .........

When I find one, i'll post on the results.

Duncs

 

[212Mavguy]

Hi Shredd,

From what I have seen, more often the Mullard ecc83/12ax7 shortplates do not have smooth areas on the top mica sitting at right angles to the smooth areas on the bottom mica. That characteristic is most often seen in their 12ax7a/7025a series, (I have some in the Philips label similar to the label on your tube in the pic,) although that ID tidbit is definitely not an absolute. The vast majority of Mullard Blackburn I63's I own (15-20-ish) exhibit spokes all around the circumference of the micas. Another Philips family shortplate characteristic is the small indent you can see in the top mica Under the "P" and bottom mica vertically even with one another, I'm guessing that is a place for a tool to grip the guts when manufacturing or perhaps installing into the bottle.

The seams on the bottle top, the plate vents, the bright silver colored metal layer (nickel?) you call the "flashing" between the plate halves and the acid etched Blackburn code are right on. Even though I prefer the sound of the Siemens shortplates to the Mullard, Philips, and Amperex the Mullards have a well deserved reputation...

Some Amperex shortplate 12ax7's have the "B" code on the bottom of the bottle, mine with orange labeling that are like that sound wonderful, the Amperex Mullards are more prized to my ears than the "Mullard" Mullards. But still, IMHO the Siemens rules the Philips family roost.

Bless your helpful spirit, ROCK ON!! Peace.