[hoo7h]

Hi,
 
I have a 6080A tube and when I was changing it I kind of broke the black metal piece in between the tube pins. I can see a small glass piece was hidden behind it. Is it still usable?
 

 

[hoo7h]

Anyone?

 

[hoo7h]

Great answers, thanks!

 

[CJG888]

If there is a leak in the envelope and the vacuum is compromised, the tube is dead.

I would suggest finding someone with a tube tester before installing it in your amp.

 

[Eee Pee]

Instant gratification!  Yay!
 
That black bit isn't anything more than a guide.

 

[CJG888]

The key is to make sure the glass part underneath has not been damaged. If the envelope is intact, the tube should be fine.

 

[kramer5150]

The safest answer here is to get it tested.
 
IMHO it would be speculation at best to diagnose what else has been damaged... based on a low-res snap-shot.
 
Tubes can be finicky little buggers, depending on the circuit design.  I would hate to see you fry a voice coil, or blow up something in your amp... based on il-advisement.  Its not the answer you are looking for but IMHO its better to play it safe.  Especially if you bought it on Ebay.