I know different tubes won't make it sound like a different amp, but would the difference in tubes make any noticeable difference?
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Tube Amp with Active Basses?
- Thread starter Jake Morris
- Start date
I know different tubes won't make it sound like a different amp, but would the difference in tubes make any noticeable difference?
It's very possible different tubes might make a difference. It's also possible they won't. A lot depends on the tubes themselves, and the vast majority of tonal changes comes from the first preamp tube, usually known as V1. For example, I did a little tube rolling in my Heritage SVT-CL with 4 different 12ax7's...the stock JJ, a Ruby, a NOS Raytheon from Japan, and a no-name NOS tube that I think might be a Sylvania. The Raytheon and no-name tubes sounded the same with a slightly increased treble response, as did the JJ and the Ruby with a slightly decreased treble response. Ended up using the stock JJ because I didn't care for the extra treble bump. Other tubes may yield other differences as well, some subtle, some not so subtle.
If you do try it, the most recommended new tube I've seen is the Tung Sol 12ax7. You can go NOS as well, but NOS 12ax7's have gotten really expensive and I doubt I'll be buying anymore.
If you do try it, the most recommended new tube I've seen is the Tung Sol 12ax7. You can go NOS as well, but NOS 12ax7's have gotten really expensive and I doubt I'll be buying anymore.
IMO, durability/quality is the most important factor when choosing tubes for a live bass rig, but I tend to favor a cleaner sound. There's no doubt in my mind NOS tubes do sound better, often stronger as well. For my money JJ's are great, if I was using an amp for recording only I would consider going NOS.
Are there any tubes that would take away some of the highs? Don't know what comes stock in the Orange
JJ's are a little darker tube than most. Yours probably has Sovteks in it. A lot of manufacturers use them because the price is right.
Traded the orange for a GB Streamliner 600. Liked the sound better and works with upright better. There are 3 12ax7's in this amp. But leaving the tubes alone for now.
