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we all got a basic idea about which 6l6 or el34 tubes are good.

But what do you guys look for when grabbing a good set of 6V6 tubes for your deluxe? Somebody fill me in on the kinds of sounds you get with a JJ versus the GT crap, or what NOS tubes are good, I've heard about Brimar.

Which 6V6's are harder to breakup vs. which are sweet distorters?

I've had good luck with NOS RCAs in my Falcon. Last time I picked up a matched set for $24 a pair, about 3-4 years ago.

The other two sets I have on hand are branded GE and Realistic Lifetime (marked W.Germany).

brimars are good deals for nos

I usually use new tubes with newer amps and NOS for vintage amps.

the JJs are pretty good ... they have a big bottom, a fairly warm, smooth tone, and can take the voltages in a Deluxe Reverb.

of the NOS tubes, check KCA NOS for his descriptions of his vintage tubes ...
some good ones are Brimar, Mazdas, and of course RCAs.

what about the new tung sols?


Originally Posted by Curlysome good ones are Brimar, Mazdas, and of course RCAs.

Do you like the Mazdas? I had a set of NOS Mazda 12ax7s that absolutely blew. Not just like a little bit- I mean they went from suck to blow.

I currently have JJ 6v6 in my Victoria tweed Deluxe and they are supposed to be the best of what is available today according to a local tube guru. I did just order a set of NOS Marconi tubes that are similar to the old RCA blackplates at a lower cost and with exceptionally high quality. I would expect them to outlive me so it should be a good investment. Ill let you know how they are next week.


Originally Posted by The Golden BoyDo you like the Mazdas? I had a set of NOS Mazda 12ax7s that absolutely blew. Not just like a little bit- I mean they went from suck to blow.

the Mazda 6V6s are fine, but I replaced them with JJs in my Deluxe Reverb, since the Mazdas are more expensive, and DRs are hard on tubes.

the marconi's are going for cheap at tubedepot.

So what are the most durable NOS 6V6's?

Which tubes did the old DR's have in them stock?