Yeah, but it's also ubiquitous, and there weren't a lot of other high-gain dual triodes.The 12AX7 is probably the worst tube used in audio, so just buy a set of EHs or Sovteks and be done with it.
It's in a DAC where it'll be used as a cathode follower as there's no need for gain. There are still much better tube available such as the 6DJ8 or 6H30 for this role. Tubes in DACs are a gimmick and the 12AX7 chosen because it's widely available, cheap and has a low plate current which reduces PSU costs.Yeah, but it's also ubiquitous, and there weren't a lot of other high-gain dual triodes.
Seldom even worth doing there. Matching is typically only done at one plate voltage and current, not much use when the loadline is across the entire width of the characteristic curves and with the reactive load of most speakers, it's a very fat line.Far more important to match output tubes in class AB.
Not in my experience. EH and Sovteks were my standard replacements when servicing guitar amps and vintage audio unless the person requested something specific.was the fact that a lot of sovteks fail in a very short time.
Those old tubes are indeed more durable--plenty of audio buddies of mine have replaced the import tubes either due to early failures or, they just sound like crap. I have a small amp here that came with three of those no-name chinese tubes, and after about an hour at temperature they start to smear the highs. Drop in some vintage new old stock Mullards and it's a completely different amp.Ok the reason I mentioned for use in a d to a converter was the fact that a lot of sovteks fail in a very short time. Last time I bought this type tube. (Cable Company) they sent me amprex they stated in this application they would be a good choice & be durable, which they were . The unit came with unmarked Chinese tubes
Could you explain in detail why you think 12AX7 is the worst tube used in audio?The 12AX7 is probably the worst tube used in audio, so just buy a set of EHs or Sovteks and be done with it.
Plus high noise, and too much gain for most applications.Could you explain in detail why you think 12AX7 is the worst tube used in audio?
High output impedance and distortion??
Marginally better.How about 5751??
No, it's a fair question and whilst I think tubes are by and large a waste of time for audio, I would encourage strongly trying to understand the engineering behind tubes and why circuits are designed as they are. Better tube and topology choices at the design stage will make a far, far greater difference than tube rolling. Morgan Jones' Valve Amplifiers is a must buy as is Building Valve Amplifiers. He explains design choices very well in the examples in VA as well as a bajillion other useful things for the novice to know.Not trying to start a war here, just trying to learn more about tubes
... or ECC83, IIRC?Could you explain in detail why you think 12AX7 is the worst tube used in audio?
High output impedance and distortion?? How about 5751??
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It's a 12AX7. English nomenclature.... or ECC83
In need of 12AX7A for an old cal audio A to D converter
My bugle boys died and @$75 each no thanks. Need a good source for matched tubes.
Cheers!