Is there a differance between 5AR4s?

[Brian Chaffins]

I understand the difference between drivers and output tube brands/manufactures. But is there a large difference between rectifier tubes brands? While looking for a 5AR4 for my first SSE project board I see the prices vary greatly. If I get a common Sovtek brand will it be fine for this application?

I find it hard to think the rectifier cane make a large difference in audio output.

Thanks
Brian

 

[spendorite]

Differences would be about reliability more than anything else. Among the
new production tubes Sovtek rectifier appears to be more reliable than the
others, at least in my experience. The tubes of yesteryear such as RCA's,
Mullard and others are much more robust and reliable but the prices for
these are in the stratosphere even for good used ones.
As for audio differences I personally don't detect any. I have a Mullard and
some Sovteks and try as I might I can't detect any audio difference. Others
might disagree.

 

[Brian Chaffins]

Thanks for the reply. That's what I was thinking. I got a good deal on a NEW Sovtek 5AR4 on Ebay so I'll start there. I would prefer the tube rectifier for the soft starts. Some of the prices for a dual diode are a little out of hand. I got a brand new one for $15.00 shipping included.

 

[TonyTecson]

tv damper diode tubes are available at a dollar each....

 

[Brian Chaffins]

I'll keep that in mind AJT.

I wanted to follow the basic design before much experimenting with swapping parts.

Thanks
Brian

 

[Sodacose]

Using a new Sovtek 5AR4 in my SSE and, with a couple months of daily use, so far so good.

 

[kevinkr]

Note that the current Mullard, Gold Lion, and Tungsol rectifiers seem to have identical internal structures to the much less expensive Sovtek, differences seem limited to the base used. (All of these tubes are made in New Sensor's Xpo-Pul plant so no real surprise here.)