Telefunken smooth vs.ribbed plate 12AX7

[RADIOLEE]

Can anyone fill me in on the supposed audible difference between these? I've used both and I don't perceive a difference....

Thanks in advance!

Peace

Lee

[fdegrove]

Hi,

Do you mean a TFK smooth plate versus another manufacturers' ribbed plate?

Either way I doubt these subtle difference would show up in all systems.
It much depends on topology and naturally the resolution of the system.

Obviously when listening for differences in tubes a high circuit such as a phono preamp should make it clear.

One caveat though, not all 12AX7s/ECC83s measure the same on all electrical parameters so you can expect them to sound different, especially so when used in RIAA preamps.

Cheers,

[Sch3mat1c]

Originally posted by fdegrove
One caveat though, not all 12AX7s/ECC83s measure the same on all electrical parameters so you can expect them to sound different, especially so when used in RIAA preamps.

In other words, spending the money on a TF is rather pointless since you can get the same specs out of a well-worn organ tube. How interesting for you to say that.

Tim

[fdegrove]

Hi,

In other words, spending the money on a TF is rather pointless since you can get the same specs out of a well-worn organ tube. How interesting for you to say that.

First of all I'm not encouraging anyone to spend anything.

Secondly, I was just warning against comparing apples to oranges.

Thirdly, what's so interesting about me saying that?

Or are you just a little grumpy, Tim?

EDIT: my reference to measuring differently refered to perfectly good unused tubes, nothing to do with wear and tear.

[DSummer]

I guess RadioLee wants to know the audible difference between TFK smooth plate and TFK ribbed plate. It really depends on the year made. Normally, ribbed plate is a little bit better with more details, also better high frequencies, clear damped bass. That means smooth plate will give you warmer and richer mid range.
TFK ECC803S will have a wider range of frequency response, but sounds too hifi and too expensive - not worth it (just in my opinion)
No matter which version, you should own at least a pair of TFK ECC83 if you love tube gear.......
Hope it can help!

[fdegrove]

Hi,

No matter which version, you should own at least a pair of TFK ECC83 if you love tube gear.......

Especially when you sport a TT, love your records and value good stereo imaging.

Some companies have made very serious efforts to copy the sound of this tube which is considered the very best of it's kind...

So far I've never been disappointed by any tube TFK made, no wonder the asking prices have shot through the roof.

Cheers,

[Brett]

Originally posted by DSummer
No matter which version, you should own at least a pair of TFK ECC83 if you love tube gear.......
Hope it can help!

Oh, puuuhleeeeze! For the cost of a pair of NOS TFK's I can build an entire new preamp with a topology that far exceeds the performance of what any 12AX7 can do. They belong in guitar amps, and the last place I'd put one would be in a phono pre.

[DSummer]

Originally posted by Brett


Oh, puuuhleeeeze! For the cost of a pair of NOS TFK's I can build an entire new preamp with a topology that far exceeds the performance of what any 12AX7 can do. They belong in guitar amps, and the last place I'd put one would be in a phono pre.

It really depends on your need/passion on the equipment. I won't comment on those people spending hundreds$$$ on BG or WBT/Cardas/Kimber connectors. Like Mr Peter Daniel's gainclone project, who can imagine a thousand dollar project will base on a couple dollar chip! Seriously, I believe it worths the price!
I have never disappointed with any Telefunken tubes, once you try it, you will love it!

[Brett]

Originally posted by DSummer
I have never disappointed with any Telefunken tubes, once you try it, you will love it!

The only places I have 12AX7's in my house are,
- in the tube box, gathering a lot of dust
- in the front end of my ST35
- in my Fisher receiver.

The Fisher and the ST35 use Mullards, though the 1950's Mazda's I have sound better in the ST35. I had TFKs in my Marantz's and I still think all 12AX7's are a POS.

The ST35 may evolve ito a simple 6H30 diff amp driving the 7189's in class A. The ST is a 'spare' amp, and the Fisher is used in the bedroom system and I won't modify it because it's a classic.

[DSummer]

Yep, don't modify it if working properly. I like either TFK or Amperrex BB with Fisher amps. Is yours 500C/800C? For Dynaco ST-35, I believe TFK will be better overall, but Mullard will have more bass and sweet vocal, probably not enough highs (both long plate/short plate), right? Actually, TFK sounds more neutral than BB, however sometimes we need some tweaking! It's really funny to play around with these toys!