Easy amp recommendation needed [can newbie]

[merc]

Quote:

Sylvania blackplate 5751

Okay, so where can I buy this tube? I looked at Triode, but this tube doesn't seem to be listed. There may be one on Ebay now? How smart is it to buy a used tube? What would be considered "low hours" on this tube?
Thanks for your help!

 

[Nick Dangerous]

I use eBay. Tube dealers who carry the Sylvania 5751 charge outrageous prices.

Triode doesn't sell them.

eBay dude is selling a group of 18 tubes. He doesn't list enough information about them. No way to tell what version they are. Ask the following:

1) Can you post a picture of them?

2) If not, are they grey or black plates?

3) What writing is on the tube?

4) 2 or 3 mica spacers?

Is it smart to buy a used tube? You might as well ask if it is smart to buy a used car. Same difference. It all depends upon the variables: seller's reputation, condition of item, how item tests out, price vs. new, etc, etc.

"Low hours" is a relative term. Again... use the car analogy. "Low mileage". It all depends. You always take your chances buying used, but it is the only way to save money.

 

[merc]

Nick: thanks for the help!
Let me rephrase the "low use" question. What is the expected lifespan of these tubes in usage hours?
Thanks!

 

[Nick Dangerous]

Hate to say "it depends", but it does. The amp, tube, and condition it's in all play a part.

I realize that you are trying to lock on to a fixed number for a frame of reference. I'll offer this: The AVERAGE life of a new preamp tube is between 5,000 and 10,000 hours. Assuming you turn on your amp when you get home from work and shut it off before you go to sleep, it should easily last two years... usually much longer. The MicroZOTL, for example, is supposed to last ten years with its stock tubes.

Find 2 new Sylvanias, 2 Raytheons, or a handful of used ones. That should last you well beyond the point when you upgrade your gear.

 

[Chip Engle]

Merc said:


"At the same time, the discussion here has me wondering if I am truly gonna like the MG Head when it gets here? I am not young anymore and need all the upper extension I can get in order to make up for my upper freq hearing loss after years of loud music. I am a metal tweeter kind of guy."


Merc,

it was a tossup for me between the MG Head and the Grado RA-1... my hearing isn't that good anymore either, lol. Since the 580/600's can be reported as laid back somewhat in the high's, i thought the solid state Grado would even things out somewhat. We'll see, should have everything today or tommorrow.

 

[Archrr]

Thanks for all the info Nick.

I must not be using the correct searhc terms because I couldn't find that ebay auction.

>>>Tube dealers who carry the Sylvania 5751 charge outrageous prices.<<<

Mind pointing me to one or two so I have an idea of how much? (did a search to no avail)

Thanks again for all the input. I almost didn't post figuring you all were tired of the same Q's over and over

 

[Archrr]

When Jeff gets his turn at the tubes that Nick sent out, he is going to come over to my place so I can hear his MG and he can hear my Diva's

If anyone else in the bay area wants to join the party, c'mon over and bring your amp!

 

[Nick Dangerous]

http://www.tubeworld.com/tubes.html

1) GB-5751 Sylvania Gold Brand Gold Pins Triple Mica Gray Plates NOS $100
3) GB-5751 Sylvania Gold Brand Gold Pins Double Mica NOS $85 each
1) 5751 Sylvania "Black Plates and Triple Mica" NOS square getter halo, copper grid posts, yellow lightning Sylvania logo and printing 1950's $65

http://www.raretubes.com/XEECC83.htm

5751GB NA SYLVANIA Sylvania W 1960's gold pin GB Grade A, extra spacer, pair 1pr 125/pr

WOW... here comes the stampede. Please reply if you order.
http://www.audiotubes.com/12ax7.htm

5751 blackplate Premium industrial grade, Raytheon USA made New Old Stock in white box. These are low microphonic blackplates. $28.00 - 2 left