Power tube retainers

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CHIP
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Power tube retainers

Post by CHIP »

I've been thinking about installing spring loaded retainers on my #183 clone. Has anyone who has done this experience any adverse effects on their tone?
I don't remember seeing any pictures of original Dumbles using power tube retainers.
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glasman
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by glasman »

CHIP wrote:I've been thinking about installing spring loaded retainers on my #183 clone. Has anyone who has done this experience any adverse effects on their tone?
I don't remember seeing any pictures of original Dumbles using power tube retainers.
On my early amps I used the spring (over the tube) retainers and they work fine. The ony downfall is that they can vibrate and rattle.

These days I use the claw style clamps that grab the base of the tube.

Gary
Located in the St Croix River Valley- Afton, MN
About 5 miles south of I-94
aka K0GWA, K0 Glas Werks Amplification
www.glaswerks.com
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jaysg
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by jaysg »

Somewhere in time, I bought some that were terrible. They snapped around the third time I took a tube out. I think the ones from Antique are better, like the real Fender part.
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Structo
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by Structo »

Yeah I use the bear trap clamps from Antique Electronics.
Haven't broke one yet.
Tom

Don't let that smoke out!
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sonicmojo
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by sonicmojo »

I've used both and much prefer the claw type for heads. Much easier to swap tubes. If I built a really loud combo amp, I'd probably go with spring retainers for added security.
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CHIP
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by CHIP »

Thanks guys. I'll check out the Antique Electronics claw type.
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Luthierwnc
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by Luthierwnc »

A blob of clear GE Silicone II at the base can't hurt either. Some tubes have wafer or conical bases and some preamp tubes are too tall for the spring-loaded shields. Keeps them from rattling too. Tough stuff -- can handle up to 500 degrees F. Smelly until it dries and looks like you sneezed on the tubes. It is the same stuff I use to hold down filter caps inside the chassis. Clean the area with alcohol and let dry first, Skip

PS Important protocol tip; avoid getting silicone anywhere near where you might use nitro lacquer. Silicone is like Kryptonite to solvent-based finishes and even trace contamination can ruin a shoot. sh
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mcinku
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by mcinku »

I really hate when my tubes rattle in my amps...
I have this small combo and tubes will vibrate like hell in that small amp.

Well I think I fixed it... :wink:
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stelligan
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by stelligan »

Dayum! Those babies are on lock down.... :D
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mcinku
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Re: Power tube retainers

Post by mcinku »

Not going anywhere for sure...
:D
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