It never hurts to try one out for a small investment as long as you’re comfortable with the spend. I’ve done this in the past just to get a listen to something someone has recommended without having to hunt down a higher priced example.
The thing to be weary of (as always) are the test results provided by some sellers. I’ve had a couple of cases where I was told a rectifier “tested good” only to end up with thing putting on a big light show minutes into the first listen (see below- I took this just before yanking the tube).
It never hurts to try one out for a small investment as long as you’re comfortable with the spend. I’ve done this in the past just to get a listen to something someone has recommended without having to hunt down a higher priced example.
The thing to be weary of (as always) are the test results provided by some sellers. I’ve had a couple of cases where I was told a rectifier “tested good” only to end up with thing putting on a big light show minutes into the first listen (see below- I took this just before yanking the tube).
My 300B amp uses 5Z3P rectifier stock. I'm rolling 5U4G right now without issue. Should I assume the older 4 pin 5Z3 will also work too as long as I use the necessary 4 pin to octal socket adapter? Both 5U4G and 5Z3 have identical max operation numbers. Thanks.
My 300B amp uses 5Z3P rectifier stock. I'm rolling 5U4G right now without issue. Should I assume the older 4 pin 5Z3 will also work too as long as I use the necessary 4 pin to octal socket adapter? Both 5U4G and 5Z3 have identical max operation numbers. Thanks.
A good quality rectifier helps with the longevity of amplifier components as well. You just have to think of a rectifier like a good power supply. Why cheap out on that? Not only that the performance of your signal and power tubes improve right down to a molecular level with the help and dependability of a good rectifier. This is why a rectifier can change the quality of sound in a tube amplifier, especially when you are using all good components.
An example of a rectifier or tube in general with an air leak, which causes the getter blast to become white. Makes for a nice light show though. Ummmm violet. Lol.
An example of a rectifier or tube in general with an air leak, which causes the getter blast to become white. Makes for a nice light show though. Ummmm violet. Lol.
Yeah it was a 1950’s KenRad. Bought it off some guy on E-bay for 35$. I knew it was too good to be true. Lol lesson learned.
I did get my money back though.
Is there any vintage 5U4G / 5Z3 that can rival the transparency and resolution of new production Genelex GZ34? The "see through" soundstage is highly addictive.
Is there any vintage 5U4G / 5Z3 that can rival the transparency and resolution of new production Genelex GZ34? The "see through" soundstage is highly addictive.
I didn't think the new Genelex GZ34 was all that great sounding. It seemed rather flat sounding from recollection. I actually preferred the EH 5U4G that came with my amp. That being said, the GEC U52/5U4G I'm using is better than both of them -- more transparent, more dimensional, more open, more vibrant
Is there any vintage 5U4G / 5Z3 that can rival the transparency and resolution of new production Genelex GZ34? The "see through" soundstage is highly addictive.
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