Alternative to 12AX7 for Mesa Walkabout?

[meursault42]

I'm wondering if it's possible/advisable to switch out the 12AX7 tubes in the Walkabout with something that has a more musical breakup distortion. Anybody have experience with this, or suggestions? I find the breakup with the 12AX7s to be a little too splatty/farty.

[bassgod0dmw]

Have you tried different brands yet?

Here is a link that has great info in it.
Bowlus Bass Blog: Preamp tubes in Mesa Walkabout

[Joe Louvar]

Originally Posted by bassgod0dmw

Have you tried different brands yet?

Here is a link that has great info in it.
Bowlus Bass Blog: Preamp tubes in Mesa Walkabout

+1
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_no...keywords=12AX7

[bongomania]

There are lower-gain tubes you can try like the 12AU7, but unfortunately in many cases they have the same breakup flavor as the 12AX7--you just have to push them harder to get there.

Worth experimenting though, no harm will occur. Supposedly some preamps won't operate with a lower-gain tube in place, but I've never run into those cases myself.

[Bassoballs]

+1 try different brands or if you can NOS tubes.

[mrphattay]

+1 on all of the above.

Re: Swapping out various Brand 12AX7 tubes in the Walkabout, has certainly been discussed.
A quick search will turn up a number of threads devoted to this very topic...
The referenced Tom Bowlus blog is an excellent starting point.
Here's another:
Attn: Mesa Walkabout Owners - 12ax7 Tube Content - TalkBass Forums
Goodluck

[meursault42]

Thx for the heads up on all this. I'll have to look into some of these brands.

[beans-on-toast]

The thing is, what sounds good in one amp may not sound so good in another amp. It depends on the design of the amp. You have to try different tubes and see.

A Telefunken ECC83 12AX7 is such a smooth sounding tube and probably my favorite 12AX7. They are very expensive.

You can try a lower gain tube, specifically a 12AY7. These are a lot more affordable. The 6072A is a low noise version of this tube.

Used tubes that check out ok can often be had at lower prices. This can allow you to try different makes and decide which you prefer without spending a lot.