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6L6 tube recommendations

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#7
mr ed said:
I am starting to collect parts for a 6l6 pp amp build.
Looking for input on experiences with current production tubes ( for cost reasons. )
Both sound quality and tube life/quality.
Click to expand...
If you are going to make an amp around the 6l6 as opposed to the 6l6gc there are no better deals than than the metal 6l6 tubes. They are the original and sound amazing. You could also look into the 6bg6, an 807 with an octal base. The 807 is essentially a 6l6 with a top cap. The 6bg6 is still a super cheap tube, even cheaper than the 807 and a super deal.

If you want current production 6l6gc I think the Tung Sol branded 7581a are very good as well as the new Golden Lion KT66.
 
#11
The 1625 is an interesting and less expensive alternative to the 807. Different base yet again and 12.6V filament. I'm thinking of an all 12V WE124 as I have enough tubes and sockets. Also have an decent power transformer with a 12.6V winding.

I agree that the 6BG6 is a fun choice too, especially the "G" version in the ST shape.
 
#13
Sylvania 6BG6GA, AKA Super 6BG6. Power dissipation 30W, same as 6L6GC, and 350 V screen rating. Not all Sylvania 6BG6GA are Super. Super (bottom on the attached picture) is taller, has wide plate and big screen cooling flags.
20250116_190240.jpg
 
#15
+1 on the Soviet-era 6P3S-E. There's a Romanian guy on eBay selling NOS, NIB quads for $90US + shipping. Bought a few quads from him and the check out OK. Don't be put off by the store name: Soviet Electronic Parts. That's assuming you can live with 6L6GA or GB specs, NOT GC specs.
 
#17
A 6L6GC works in any other 6l6-family socket.
A 6L6-family, will not work in a 6L6GC socket if the maximum specs of the 6L6GC are utilized

All Generalizations Have Exceptions.

My JJ 6L6GC have been running for years in various amplifier designs.
I get them at Eurotubes.com
 
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#18
I would second the 1625. Yes, they need 12.6v for heaters and a special (but easily available) socket, and have a plate cap. These are the kisses of death for commercial products (especially guitar amps), so NOS examples are everywhere, and used ones almost free. Built to ride around in jeeps for WW2, so insanely rugged. Curves of the 6L6/807 family. Buy a couple and hold them in your hand and you'll see what I mean. But don't tell anybody.

All good fortune,
Chris
 
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#19
Chris Hornbeck said:
I would second the 1625. Yes, they need 12.6v for heaters and a special (but easily available) socket, and have a plate cap. These are the kisses of death for commercial products (especially guitar amps), so NOS examples are everywhere, and used ones almost free. Built to ride around in jeeps for WW2, so insanely rugged. Curves of the 6L6/807 family. Buy a couple and hold them in your hand and you'll see what I mean. But don't tell anybody.
Click to expand...


Thanks for the tip 🙂
Definitely interested in these for a SE build
I'm going to stick to 6l6 tubes for this PP project, trying to stay as faithful to the original design as I can.
 
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