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    Building, troubleshooting and testing of these amplifiers should only be
    performed by someone who is thoroughly familiar with
    the safety precautions around high voltages.

Valves question

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Hard to say with so little info, as valves have no 'sound' of their own (unless dropped on a hard surface).
In a properly designed amp, using valves within the design tolerances, there should be very little difference between brands.
In less strict designs, especially those meant to add colour/warmth/character ie distortion, there can be very perceivable differences.
Long time ago I developed a dislike for the small plate East German ECC82 as it didn't sound well in *my* amp at that time, where the long plate Philips did. Thinking back, I'd like to know why there was a difference, but alas, that amp is no more.
I have no experience with the various JJ versions or La Radiotechnique.
Since the ECC82 is not the most linear type, switching to a 12BH7 or rewiring for a 6FQ7/6CG7 could reduce distortion, if that's what you're after.
 
Is it worth replacing JJ 12AU7 valves on a hybrid amp?
Watford valves suggested the Radio Technique / ECC82/6189/12AU7WA for extra bass and warmth.

Should i try or is it a waste of money?
Save your money !


If you want more bass : turn the bass control up ( unless you have been convinced that tonecontrol is uncorrect, in that case : change speakers).
 
I bought the RCAs 5814A black plates and indeed there is a sonic difference compared to the JJs, big one i'd say.
My concern now is:
"the 5814A is equivalent to a 12AU7WA, it is ruggedized and redesigned; the filament current raised to 175ma per section versus 150ma per section for a 12AU7"

Would that cause a problem to the amp?
 
"Watford valves suggested the Radio Technique / ECC82/6189/12AU7WA for extra bass and warmth." They would do, they sell valves. Personally I think valve A has more bass or whatever than valve B is c*ap, but the whole valve supply chain is built on the idea that a Mullard sounds better or different to a Brimar so what do I know.

I'd change the caps in the tone control or change a cathode bypass cap to get more/different bass, that or get a pedal, still, horses for courses.

Andy.
 
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