Mark IV, replacing the tubes. Opinions? - It has 2 EL34's an

trapzilla · #1 10-04-2001, 02:55 PM

Would like to know what tubes everyone prefers, and why... I am hoping that replacing the EL34's with 6L6's will give me a little more 'bite' -

taking it from this -> :thumbsup:
to this -> :shoot:

Playing thru a recto 3/4back 1x12 cab...I plan on replacing all 4 (the 2 El34's and the 2 Svetlana 6L6's). *What do you suggest? Thanks guys, your opinions are greatly appreciated!!

Shawn

(Edited by trapzilla at 1:57 pm on Oct. 4, 2001)

bammbamm · #2 10-04-2001, 03:18 PM

Its hard to say that you should get any one brand of tube without much debate, Svet's are good, I also like Sovteks, I've had Groove tubes come bad out of the box and burn up solder runs on an amp b4. My advice, try all of the ones recommended. Over time, you most likely won't notice much difference unless you can sh*ll
out the bucks to a-b the various brands. There are lots of manufacturers to choose from, so, I would (personally) go with the concensus. I have installed most brands and for what ever differences each tube posesses, you can accomodate for any lack or excess with some minor tweaking. Good luck, and by all means SHOP for a deal ! Sovteks are usually 300% over cost in most stores, as are most other brands. Do some research and don't be afraid to haggle.
Lots of luck,
Bamm !

Kyle Odom · #3 10-05-2001, 12:44 AM

I know that early Mark IV's called for one set of 6L6's and one set of EL34's. *I would consult Mesa before switching the EL34's for 6L6's just in case. *I think the best set for a power amp of your class would be a good strong set of 6L6's such as Mesa and find some EL34's that break up a little more to give you the bite you are looking for. *If you can find rated sets, get a low hardness set of EL34's for that bite. *I've never been a brand freak when it comes to tubes, you get some good ones and some bad ones with every brand. *I agree with Bam. *Buy tubes from a brand you have heard of for the best price you can, unless you can afford the expensive NOS types.
Good Luck!
KO

trapzilla · #4 10-05-2001, 10:43 AM

Cool! Thanks guys! will do some reading :read: up on whats out there... I do know that in my MK4 manual it states one CAN put all 6L6's in it... without ever re-biasing as well.. Thanks again

Shawn

pri0531 · #5 10-05-2001, 12:31 PM

I recommend Eurotubes. *I have tried GT and Sovteks, but also go back to the eurotubes.
Out,
GP