Which tubes should I order?

JD · Mar 2, 2012

I'm looking at buying some tubes for my RM100 amps. I have 6l6's and want to try something more towards the EL34. Is this a situation where the more I spend the better tube and tone I get?

http://thetubestore.com/el346ca7types.html

Also should I be trying something different than the stock pre-amp tubes?

http://thetubestore.com/preamtubon.html

Whoopysnorp · Mar 2, 2012

I recently swapped an old tired set of JJ E34Ls in my RM100 for JJ KT77s (Ruby-branded). You might want to check these out. They occupy a middle ground between 6L6s and EL34s, tending a little more toward the EL34 side. They have a nice robust and forward midrange but strong low and high end as well. It's also not a bad idea to experiment a little with preamp tubes. My personal favorite all-around quality preamp tube is the Tung-Sol 12AX7, which has a pretty clear and bright character to it. That may or may not be up your alley.

drewiv · Mar 2, 2012

I'm a big fan of running 6L6 on the inside and EL34B on the outside, but that's just me. Kind of the best of both worlds. I may have to try KT77 on the outside, just see if it makes any difference.

eyeball987 · Mar 2, 2012

drewiv said:
I'm a big fan of running 6L6 on the inside and EL34B on the outside, but that's just me. Kind of the best of both worlds. I may have to try KT77 on the outside, just see if it makes any difference.

I did like the 6L6 / 34 mix once I got used to it. That mix seems to retain the punch of 6L6's but also the crunchy mids of the 34's. I do want to try 6CA7's at some point to.

I think that going to all 34's after using all 6L6's might be a bit much for your ears depending on what you are playing. Expect to spend some time to re-EQ the rig if you do.

Personally, I like the Winged C's I have loaded up in my RM100 right now but miss some of the punch that the 6L6 / 34 mix gave me when playing certain styles. The Ruby 34's are another favorite of mine at a lower cost.

crankyrayhanky · Mar 2, 2012

I just put chinese 12ax7s in my rm100KH & Peavey Ultra Plus. Killer tone cheap cheap

Mike P may have the best working resume around here and he recommend NOT spenidng big $ on tubes. Many other qulaified corksniffers offer the opposite opinion. I always spend my money elsewhere, so cheap tubes that sound good are my way to go (though I am interested in a 5751)